MG ZS Saloon (2001 - 2004) 2.5 (180ps) 4d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like a fast car that looks good.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They all think it cost a fortune. I guess if you didnt know anything about cars, you probably would. I've had comments from so many people about how plush it is - particularly the ladies!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Every time. I can't recommend this car enough. It's been superbly reliable and the performance it excellent. Very comfy and looks great. What more could you want? Only flaws are rear visibility and economy, depending on what you're used to. mine does have several upgrades such as dual exhaust and a K & N. It averages 27 mpg. I would say I drive it average for an owner of this car. Drive it fairly hard in the city but everywhere else sensibly. Another good positive, this car can easily plod along at 30mph in 5th.

What are you likely to buy next?

My favourite at the moment would be a Saab 9-5 HOT aero. Not many cars that can compete with my performance with a similar size car. A word for all you small hot hatch people - I never thought i'd switch to a bigger car like this, but trust me it will make you wish you did sooner.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,200

When did you buy the car?

April 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got an amazing deal but then again i always do. Why? because i wait and wait until i get the best deal. I'm never in a massive rush to buy a car, so its only a matter of time until you find someone who is desperate to sell.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Incredible performance figures vs its price, as well as pretty damn good looking.

What was the dealer like?

An enthusiast, which was a massive bonus as it made the car more likely to be looked after. wasnt entirely honest i have to say, but cant complain.

What's it like to drive?

Superb. I came from a saxo vtr and they're on different planets. The ZS eats the road and is building up to top speeds is effortless. You can easily be doing 100+ and not notice. What I love about the car amongst other things, is that you can drive it very sensibly if you keep revs below 3,300 (the first variable valve) but if you want to drive it hard there aren't many races you will lose.

What's it like to park?

Perhaps it's only flaw. Blind spots and big rear spolier do limit visibility significantly. Forget parking, this is more telling if your racing in and out of lanes, as you have to check several times nothing is in your blind spot - my old saxo it would take a split second.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing since i've had it in 8 months and 8k miles. Before I brought it the only problem was an awful water leak in front passenger, nothing which a drilled hole couldnt fix and now you would never notice it.

What's most practical about your car?

It's size and chassis. Lots of interior and boot space. The chassis gives it excellent handling. it sticks to the road like glue.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The two valves that open at approx 3,300 and 4,500 revs. acceleration is average until these babies kick in, and then you better get the astronought suit on and prepare to take off!