MG recently launched the new 2022 MG ZS EV with a long list of updates including a cosmetic makeover and a major powertrain update. The brand has also made significant changes to the cabin and so far, the MG ZS EV now promises to be a great alternative to those looking for a well built, practical, and powerful electric car at VFM prices in the Indian market. After spending almost a day with the car and doing a comprehensive range test, here is our details 2022 MG ZS EV review that you should check out.
Things I Liked
- A real-life range of almost 400 kms
- Powerful performance and comfortable driving experience
- Feature-rich and premium in-cabin experience
Could Have Been Better
- The stiff suspension and not so comfortable seats can make long journeys less enjoyable
- Rear-seat space is average
- Lacks Autonomous Level 2
It Looks Fresh!
With the launch of the new MG ZS EV, we now get a completely new front fascia, updated alloy wheels, and an updated rear design as well. For starters, the front grille now has been replaced and what you now get is a blank plastic insert. The charging socket too has been displaced and is now positioned on the side of the MG logo at the front. I personally not only liked the older position of the charging socket but also appreciated the older chrome grille that gave it a more premium look. Moving on, the front bumper too has been redesigned and now gets a radar centre in the centre. The headlamps are now all LED and look better than the older halogen projector setup.
The side profile largely remains similar and you won't find any major changes save for the new alloy wheels. While the wheel size is the same as before, we now get a new design with a plastic insert on the top. MG says it is done for better aerodynamics and futuristic looks. The minimalistic use of chrome too is something that I do appreciate.
The rear profile too gets some minor updates in the form of the new taillights that might remind you of the Astor while the bumper now gets a more sporty appeal to it. The insert on the lower part of the bumper and the subtle use of chrome now gives a more finished look to the MG ZS EV.
In all, the MG ZS EV remains one of the best looking electric cars in the market and the small updates given to the car now help it boast a better road presence. I however still like the older MG ZS EV for its better looking front fascia and alloy wheels.
Updated Cabin And More Features
Just like the exteriors, the interiors too are new and fresh. For starters, the ZS EV gets an all-black cabin with a contrasting red finish for the upholstery stitching and more. The instrument console too is now fully digital while the infotainment system is bigger and better than before. The car now also gets rear AC vents for the first time while a rear armrest is a welcome addition. Having said this, the cabin of the ZS EV is comfortable and feels extremely premium.
The seats however could have been better while the rear-seat space too is average. The sound insulation levels are great and in all, there is no dearth of features. The build quality and fit-finish levels are impressive.
It Is As Powerful As Before!
The MG ZS is currently being offered with a 50.3 kWh battery pack, which is bigger than before and boasts a claimed range of 461 kms on a single charge. The permanent magnet synchronous motor has a claimed peak power and torque output of 176 Ps and 280 Nm while the car takes around 8.5-9 hours to fully charge from 0-100%. The car also boasts a claimed 0-100 timing of over 8.5 seconds.
Having said this, the MG ZS EV offers a powerful real-life driving experience and has enough power on offer in all thee three driving modes. While it is the ECO driving mode that will help you maximum range, the Sport mode on the other hand significantly enhances the performance and offers a phenomenal driving experience. However, it is the Normal mode that will offer you the best of both worlds, and despite saving on the battery, you will not be left wanting for more power in most situations.
Ride and Handling
No major changes have been made to the suspension setup of the ZS EV and the car continues to be offered with MacPherson Strut suspension at the front while the rear gets Torsion Beam suspension. To further enhance the driving experience, the MG ZS EV also gets electronic stability control, ABS, EBD, and brake assist. I particularly liked the way the MG ZS EV handled in various situations while the driving dynamics too are impressive for a car of this size.
The steering too feels great and offers an impressive feel and feedback that most of driving enthusiasts will appreciate. The high-speed dynamics are as good and the car maintains its line while being pushed hard into the corners. The brakes offer a decent bite but the feedback is average from the brake pedal. In all, the ZS EV is a sorted car and did impress us with its driving dynamics and the suspension setup.
MG ZS EV Real-Life Range
In our real-life range test, the new MG ZS EV delivered a range of almost 400 kilometres on a single charge which in my opinion is impressive. We not only used the car in traffic and on the highway but were also driving it during the shoot, which usually takes a major toll on the battery charge.
Final Verdict
With prices starting from INR 21.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) only, the 2022 MG ZS EV offers a strong package to anyone looking for a well built and practical electric car in the Indian market right now. Not only does it offer an impressive in-cabin experience, but in addition to this, also offers a long list of features and commendable performance. With a larger battery pack, I see no reason why the MG ZS EV can not be a perfect choice for your single car garage.
Also Read: 2021 Tata Tigor EV Review - Economy Class Electric?
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