Overview

The arrival of the original ZS EV marked a new beginning for the fortunes MG in the UK. This family-sized electric car has found favour with buyers looking to make the leap to a plug-in SUV without paying mega-bucks in the process – and has since been followed up by the even better value MG4 EV and MG5 EV in the hatchback and estate car classes.

The ZS EV was updated in 2021, with much-needed revised front-end styling for a more modern look, an updated interior with vastly improved infotainment, and the option of a larger battery for a longer range. How much larger? How does 273 miles from a high-capacity 72kWh long range battery pack sound?

Its choice of rivals is varied, although none are directly comparable. On one hand you could consider the more expensive Nissan Leaf, Kia Niro EV or Hyundai Kona Electric for similar practicality and range or plump for something for around the same price, such as the Renault Zoe or MINI Electric Hatch.

There’s a reasonable choice of models and trims – it’s available in SE, Trophy, and Trophy Connect forms. Even the entry-level SE models come stacked with a decent amount of equipment, such as driver-assistance tech, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatability and a reversing camera. The Trophy model adds wireless mobile charging, heated front seats, and a panoramic roof. Trophy Connect basically adds connected services.

It’s available with the headline-grabbing long-range battery option, but a lower-priced short-range model is also offered for a useful saving. That will take you 198 miles on a full charge, limiting its appeal to city dwellers, or those who take fewer unplanned long journeys.

Over the next few pages we’ll be scoring the ZS EV in 10 key areas to give it a score out of five. They’ll take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you.