The vehicle you see here is the 2021 MG ZST, the smallest and latest SUV in the brand's lineup, competing against models like GAC GS3, Haval H2, and Honda HR-V. As the first person in the UAE to drive this remarkable car, let's dive straight into the experience.

Driving Experience

The MG ZST is equipped with a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 160 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. For those familiar with the previous ZS model, it had a 1.5-liter engine. However, don’t be deceived by the smaller size of this new engine; it produces an impressive 40 more horsepower and 80 Nm more torque, making it significantly more powerful than its predecessor.

Despite this power boost, the ZS places a strong emphasis on fuel efficiency, channeling power to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission, which MG claims can achieve a remarkable 16.5 km per liter of gasoline. To add a bit of excitement to the drive, there are three steering modes available through the entertainment system:

Urban
Dynamic
Normal

Each mode alters the steering weight for a sportier or more comfortable driving experience.

In terms of driving assistance features, the ZST is equipped with significantly more technology than its competitors, including hill descent control, cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, and rear traffic alert. However, when it comes to sound insulation, the ZS does not quite match its rivals, as there is a notable amount of engine, road, and wind noise that seeps into the cabin more than expected. You can see this for yourself by watching our POV video at the top of the page.

Interior Design

To strike a balance between sporty character and affordable luxury, the cabin features a blend of beige and black leather with a flat-bottom steering wheel, along with some fake carbon fiber accents along the center console. Like all other MG vehicles, the quality is impressive, utilizing many soft-touch materials that cover most of the interior.

To remind you that you are seated in a new version of the ZS, there are updates including new cup holders, a 10.1-inch entertainment screen, and a fully customizable digital display for the gauges capable of showing a variety of information.

Rear space competes well within its class, providing a comfortable amount of head and legroom. Although there are no cup holders, there are air conditioning vents and two USB charging ports available.

Technological Specifications

When it comes to features, MG has not cut any corners and has outdone its more expensive rivals with the additions it offers. For instance, the ZS comes with a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree surround-view cameras allowing you to choose between 2D and 3D views, Apple CarPlay connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, heated seats, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a host of other specifications.

Exterior Design

The ZS has always been one of the most attractive models in the brand's lineup, and it continues this trend. At the front, there is a new grille, a new set of integrated LED headlights with daytime running lights, and a redesigned bumper featuring fog lights surrounded by black trim for a striking contrast with the red color.

Along the sides, a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels conceals red brake calipers, while the rear design includes new LED taillights, a revamped bumper, and a new diffuser that gives the impression of a dual exhaust system. The trunk space is impressively spacious with two loading levels.

Conclusion

At a price of 61,000 AED, the MG ZST finds itself positioned between the budget-friendly Haval H2 and the pricier Honda HR-V. However, the MG ZS offers the best of both worlds in terms of price and specifications. The quality of materials used matches that of its Japanese competitor, while the reasonable price aligns more with its Chinese rival. So, what will be your choice?

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