The new-generation MG ZS arrived here late last year with hybrid power, and now more affordable, exclusively petrol-powered models are coming.

    They’ll arrive in local showrooms from mid-February, with the range now opening at $26,990 drive-away.

    The new petrol-powered ZS replaces the old ZS, which was priced at $22,990 before on-road costs, and the ZST that opened at $25,490 before on-roads.

    The petrol models slot in under the Hybrid+ Excite and Hybrid+ Essence, currently being offered at $33,990 and $36,990 drive-away.

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    Though MG hasn’t published a full list of standard safety equipment, it’s expected to offer more safety equipment than the old ZS Excite – partially influencing the price hike.

    MG has provided only a short features list for the three-model petrol ZS lineup, and will publish full specifications in February.

    The Excite and Essence come standard with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 81kW of power and 140Nm of torque, mated with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

    These outputs are down 3kW and 10Nm on the atmo 1.5-litre in the old ZS.

    The Essence is optionally available with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four with 125kW and 275Nm, also mated with a CVT. This is up 10kW and 45Nm on the turbo 1.3-litre three-pot offered in the old ZST.

    All models are backed by MG’s 10-year, 250,000km warranty.

    Pricing

    ModelPrice before on-roadsDrive-away price
    2025 MG ZS Excite 1.5$25,990$26,990
    2025 MG ZS Essence 1.5$28,990$29,990
    2025 MG ZS Essence 1.5T$30,990$31,990

    Drivetrains and Efficiency

    Excite, EssenceEssence Turbo
    Engine1.5L naturally aspirated 4cyl1.5L turbo 4cyl
    Power81kW125kW
    Torque140Nm275Nm
    Fuel economy6.7L/100km6.9L/100km

    Dimensions

    MG ZS
    Length4430mm
    Width1818mm
    Height1635mm
    Boot space443L (second row up)
    1457L (second row folded)

    Standard Equipment

    Only an abbreviated feature list has been published thus far.

    The Excite comes standard with:

    • 16-inch alloy wheels
    • 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
    • Satellite navigation
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • Reversing camera
    • Fabric upholstery
    • 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
    • Keyless start

    The Essence adds:

    • 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
    • Surround-view camera
    • Leatherette upholstery
    • Heated front seats
    • 6-way power driver’s seat

    MORE: Everything MG ZS

    William Stopford

    William Stopford is an automotive journalist based in Brisbane, Australia. William is a Business/Journalism graduate from the Queensland University of Technology who loves to travel, briefly lived in the US, and has a particular interest in the American car industry.

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