MG wants you to switch to electric motoring with affordable new SUV

Whether we like it or not, electric vehicles are here to stay. With advances in technology and more brands getting on board, prices are becoming more affordable than ever. MG, the once British purveyor of those wonderful little convertibles, is now focused on the affordable electric vehicles space in Australia and New Zealand. Coming up in 2022 is a refresh to its top-selling electric SUV, the MG ZS, along with new prices.

Australian and New Zealand customers appreciate that the MG ZS EV is leading the way in affordable EV motoring.
MG Motor Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Ciao

The 2022 ZS EV will come in two variants, both of which see a major style makeover, completely new interior and more efficient and better-performing powertrain, according to the company.

Pricing starts at $46,990 drive away for the Excite model, and $49,990 drive away for the top spec’d Essence version. MG says that the ZS EV should be available in July from all 85 dealerships across Australia.

ZS EV – Key features

Both models share an all-new 51kWh high-voltage battery with an estimated 320km range. This is helped by an updated electric motor and enhanced battery management electronics.

The two models also get a 7-inch Virtual Cluster dash, which is essentially LCD dash display in place of physical dials, along with a 10.1 inch infotainment screen.

On the outside, the revised design adds a stylish and modern look, and the grille-less front conceals an updated Type 2 charging port. For lighting, the MG ZS models get new 21-module LED auto dimming headlights and nine-module LED tail lights. 17in alloy rims are also included in the kit, regardless of variant.

Safety first

It’s good to see a generous range of driver safety aids included in the entry level price too. This includes intelligent high-beam control, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, emergency lane keeping and speed assistance. If you opt for the Essence variant, you’ll also get blind spot monitoring and rear traffic alert.

For added peace of mind, MG Motors will back the ZS EV with a 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, which also includes the high-voltage battery.

For battery charging at home, the ZS works with MG’s new fast-charging ChargeHub. This can also be used to charge other EV brands, as it complies with the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP). The first 500 customers who put down an early order for the MG ZS EV can also score a $500 rebate on MG’s ChargeHub wall box.

We expect to more details closer to launch, and can’t comment on the estimated range until we try it for ourselves. However, looking at the impressive list of features and specifications, this appears to be a well rounded and competitive option for Australians ready to shift to electric motoring.