MG HS and ZS: Attractive SUV one-two punch from China
Two new SUV models have been available for test drives at the eleven Swiss MG Centers since November 2024. AutoSprintCH has already tested the compact ZS and the larger HS from the Chinese brand.
"MG is sending out a strong signal with the further expansion of its model range," explains Nicole Sahlmann, Brand Director MG at Astara Switzerland, as she welcomes us. "The ZS Hybrid+, HS and HS PHEV SUV models stand out with their everyday practicality, efficiency and excellent value for money." The two new volume models are intended to boost the once British, now Chinese brand. "MG is modern, fast, ambitious and versatile. And these are also the demands we place on our organization and our now eleven MG partners," adds MG boss Sahlmann confidently.
The MG ZS arrives on a completely new platform. The 4.43 meter long, 1.82 meter wide and 1.64 meter high compact SUV starts with a hybrid drive. The combination of a 102 hp 1.5-liter petrol engine, an electric motor with 136 hp (100 kW) and three-speed automatic transmission gets the ZS up to speed quite quickly. The front-wheel drive delivers a total of 195 hp and 465 Nm. The full hybrid delivers a good performance on the test lap in the Zurich region and sits firmly on the road. The stylish Chinese car also irons out most bumps well and is very comfortable to drive.
Even the entry-level version offers a comprehensive range of interior features and plenty of space thanks to the slightly longer wheelbase compared to the previous version (now 2.75 meters). The rear seats are very comfortable and offer plenty of legroom - and with 443 to 1457 liters, there is also plenty of storage space. "In the course of next year, the ZS will also be available as a pure combustion engine," reveals Laurent Féssy, Head of Marketing at MG. Visually, the new front with the striking radiator grille and the narrow full LED lights give the ZS a clearly more modern look. The price of the ZS starts at CHF 21,990. Even fully equipped with leather, 360-degree camera, heated front seats and steering wheel heating, dual-screen cockpit and 18-inch tires, the MG ZS Hybrid+ can be purchased as a "Luxury" from CHF 25,990.
If you need even more space and would prefer to drive a plug-in hybrid, you can opt for the MG HS. As a combustion engine, it boasts 507 to 1484 liters of storage space, and even the plug-in hybrid version offers 441 to 1219 liters. The mid-range SUV, which at first glance looks almost indistinguishable from the smaller ZS, combines a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine (142 hp) with a 183 hp electric drive. The system output of 339 hp quickly gets the SUV, which is 4.66 meters long and weighs around 1.5 tons, up to speed.
Thanks to a 21.4 kWh battery, the plug-in hybrid achieves up to 103 kilometers purely electrically according to the WLTP. And because the Chinese car still has an impressive fuel tank of 55 liters and a moderate thirst, it even cracks the 1000-kilometer range mark with a full tank and battery. And that's a good thing, because fast charging is not yet an issue with the HS. The PHEV "only" charges with alternating current (AC), which means it takes a little longer and is therefore better charged at home overnight at the wallbox. The price of the MG HS also makes you sit up and take notice: The plug-in hybrid starts at CHF 34,990!
"We sell the pure combustion engine from CHF 25,490," adds Laurent Féssy. "And the HS 2025 will also be available as a full hybrid." Whether as a plug-in hybrid or with the 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with 170 hp and 275 Nm: the spacious SUV knows how to please on the test drive. A wide range of settings can also be made on the plug-in via the large 12.3 dual HD infotainment system. Regenerative braking can be increased or decreased according to preference. Three driving modes are available, as well as three steering settings ("Comfort", "Normal" and "Sport"), although the differences here are not too great. Almost more important than these settings: The touch display can also be used to stop the annoying warning tones for overspeeding or speed limit changes.
Incidentally, both MG models score points in the interior with their appealing finish and high-quality materials - and with a price-performance ratio that will probably make some competitors wonder. So if you can do without all-wheel drive, you should definitely take a closer look at the two SUVs - it could be worth it.
