The introduction of a punchy new Turbo model is at the heart of the Middle East launch of the latest generation of MG Motor’s popular ZS crossover. The new MG ZST model will be joined by a 1.5L version as the British-born manufacturer significantly upgrades the line-up to offer a fresh new look and even higher levels of equipment and value for money. Prices for the new MG ZS 1.5L are expected to start from USD 12,625 (AED 46,371) excl. VAT.
Offering premium style without the premium price tag, the first-generation MG ZS has played a major role in the company’s success across the region. With some 5,000 units sold, the original ZS has helped lay the foundations for MG to expand its original line-up so that it now offers some of the most stylish, reliable, and best-equipped models on the market.
Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East, commented: "The MG ZST is an ideal model for our younger buyers who are looking for an exceptionally well-equipped car that also delivers strong performance and stylish good looks, without breaking the bank. And with our best-in-region manufacturer warranty of six years or 200,000km, our customers know that they can spend their hard-earned money in total confidence.”
The new MG ZST is equipped with a 160 hp, 1.3L Turbo engine, delivering maximum torque of 230 Nm, and mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox for smoother acceleration. The new unit greatly improves the performance of the upgraded MG ZS. The acceleration of the 1.3 Turbo is 9.8-seconds from 0 to 100 km/h and has a top speed of 185 km/h.
The new models benefit from major style enhancements both outside and inside, in keeping with MG’s contemporary design language. All ZS models feature a new hexagonal grille, redesigned LED headlight and rear LED light clusters, while a sportier look is conveyed by the black finish applied to the grille, headlight, and fog lamp trim, rear-view mirrors, side skirts, and wheels.
All trims come equipped as standard with a rear parking sensor and camera, 17” alloy wheels, a 10.1” HD touch screen with CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, rear air conditioning vents, keyless entry, an electric parking brake, and push-button start. The MG ZST takes this value for money package on to another level, adding a virtual instrument panel for the driver, a 360o surround parking camera that eliminates all blind spots, curtain airbags for extra safety, and a Trophy Sports Kit that emphasizes the new model’s sporty credentials.
The interior has also been refreshed, most noticeably courtesy of a new dashboard design and more extensive use of soft-touch materials, while the two-tone color design is complemented by the red stitching and carbon fiber look interior trim. A huge panoramic sunroof is available on the ZST LUX model, making life on board even more pleasant for passengers. As a crossover, practicality remains a key requirement and here the extra-large boot with flexible configuration options certainly delivers.
