Overview

MG’s ZS is directly descended from the Rover 400 of 1995, but you shouldn’t let that put you off. Consider it instead as a decade of development time, because in spite of such uninspiring ingredients, the ZS delivers a thrilling driving experience, especially in 180 guise. The latest facelift has taken a step away from the overtly ‘boy racer’ colours and spoilers seen previously and adopted a more understated yet still undeniably sporting visage that borrows heavily from the flagship SV coupe.

Great to drive, but you need to make some concessions to it in terms of details and ergonomics.