New MG ZS unveiled with angry face and powerful hybrid powertrain

The small SUV is expected to share a self-charging hybrid powertrain with the MG3 subcompact

MG has released the first teasers of the second-generation ZS, which will debut on August 28. The MG ZS Hybrid+ will feature a redesigned exterior, improved interior quality and a self-charging hybrid powertrain.

The teaser video shows a newly designed body that matches MG’s latest styling language. At the front, a large grille is flanked by aggressive LED headlights, giving off a Lexus LBX vibe.

More: Facelifted MG5 gets rid of the “moustache” grille

The body profile features the signature sculpted rear shoulders with a flatter waistline. The rear is similar to the MG3 supermini, but with new taillights, a sharper tailgate and a skid plate on the rear bumper. Despite being an electric model, MG has equipped this supermini SUV with dual exhaust pipes, but it is not clear whether these exhaust pipes are useful.

The interior isn’t shown in the video, but it’s expected to feature better quality materials and more modern technology.

MG

The next-generation MG ZS will most likely share the Hybrid+ powertrain with the MG3 hatchback, which consists of a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS), an electric motor with 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), a three-speed automatic transmission, and a small battery with a capacity of 1.83 kWh.

The new setup is expected to make the upcoming ZS more efficient than its non-electric predecessor, making it an attractive alternative to rivals such as the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. In addition, with a total output of 192 hp (143 kW / 194 PS), it will offer more power than most rivals, including the Ford Puma, Peugeot 2008 and Hyundai Kona.

While the MG3 supermini is only available in self-charging hybrid form, the MG ZS Hybrid+ will reportedly join turbocharged petrol and fully electric powertrain options to cater to a wider range of buyers.

The outgoing MG ZS was launched in China in 2017, with the all-electric version arriving in 2018. The subcompact SUV was facelifted in 2019.

The new MG ZS will be launched first in Europe, the UK and Australia, with other markets to follow. Pre-orders are likely to start later this month, with first deliveries expected in October 2024.