Vehicle Description

MG ZS 74 Plate 130kW Trophy EV 51kWh 5dr Auto Hatchback Review

The MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV 51kWh is a stylish and affordable electric crossover that offers a practical, user-friendly experience with modern features. As one of MG's most popular models, the ZS has quickly become a go-to option for those looking to embrace electric driving without breaking the bank. With a 51kWh battery, 130kW (174 horsepower) motor, and a generous list of features, the MG ZS EV proves to be a compelling alternative to other electric crossovers in its class.

Here’s a closer look at what the MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV has to offer.

Performance and Efficiency
The MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV is equipped with a 130kW electric motor, producing 174 horsepower, which delivers a solid performance for a family-focused electric SUV. This is enough power for daily driving, and the ZS EV has a 0-60 mph time of around 8.4 seconds, which is decent for an electric crossover of this size. It’s not as quick as some of the more performance-oriented electric vehicles, but it’s more than enough for city driving and short to medium-range trips.

The 51kWh battery gives the MG ZS EV a respectable range of up to 200-250 miles on a full charge, depending on driving conditions, usage, and how efficiently the vehicle is driven. This makes it an ideal option for daily commutes, school runs, and weekend trips without the worry of needing frequent recharges.

The ZS EV supports rapid charging, with the ability to recharge from 0 to 80% in approximately 40-50 minutes using a fast charger, which is excellent for long-distance driving. For home charging, the car can be fully charged using a 7kW wallbox in around 7-8 hours, making it convenient for overnight charging.

Interior and Comfort
Inside, the MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV offers a spacious and comfortable cabin that’s well-suited for family use. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering high-quality materials that are durable without feeling overly luxurious. The Trophy EV trim level adds a few more premium touches, such as leather upholstery and a soft-touch dashboard, which make the cabin feel more refined compared to the entry-level models.

The front seats are supportive and offer a good amount of adjustability, ensuring drivers can find a comfortable position. The seats are wide enough to accommodate most body types, and the driver’s seat includes height and lumbar adjustments, which is ideal for longer trips. The infotainment system is well-integrated and easy to use, with an 8-inch touchscreen that’s intuitive and responsive. It comes with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and DAB radio.

The rear seats are spacious for a compact crossover, with plenty of legroom and headroom for two adults. Three passengers in the back can be a bit tight on longer trips, but overall, the ZS EV is a comfortable vehicle for family use. The boot offers 470 liters of storage (with the seats up), which is one of the largest in its class, and the rear seats fold flat for even more room, offering great flexibility for larger items.

Technology and Features
The MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV is loaded with features, making it a great value for money. The central 8-inch touchscreen serves as the hub for the vehicle’s infotainment system, which supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The system is intuitive and offers features such as satellite navigation, voice control, and Bluetooth, ensuring that drivers are well-connected on the go.

In addition to the infotainment system, the Trophy EV comes with a digital driver’s display that provides essential driving information, including battery status, range, and speed. This digital interface is clean and easy to read, giving the driver all the necessary data at a glance.

When it comes to safety, the MG ZS EV includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features as standard. The Trophy EV trim comes with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, providing peace of mind on longer journeys and in urban driving. These features are especially useful in busy traffic or on the motorway, as they help prevent accidents and ease the strain of long-distance driving.

Driving Experience
The MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV offers a comfortable and quiet driving experience, with smooth acceleration provided by the electric motor. The immediate torque delivery from the electric motor means that the ZS EV feels responsive off the line, providing an enjoyable driving experience. The ride is smooth, with the suspension doing a good job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road. It’s a comfortable vehicle to drive on long journeys, but it can also handle tight city streets with ease.

The steering is light but accurate, and the ZS EV is relatively agile for its size. It’s not as sharp or dynamic as some of its competitors, but it’s more than capable of handling everyday driving situations. The handling is stable, and the car feels well-planted on the road, with a low center of gravity thanks to the battery placement.

The regenerative braking system helps to recharge the battery during braking, adding to the overall efficiency of the car. The level of regenerative braking can be adjusted by the driver, offering a customizable driving experience. In Eco mode, the car prioritizes energy efficiency, which helps maximize range, while in Sport mode, the throttle response is sharper, making the car feel more engaging to drive.

Verdict
The MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV 51kWh is a well-rounded electric vehicle that offers an impressive blend of performance, practicality, and technology. With a range of up to 250 miles, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a host of standard features, it makes a great option for families or anyone looking for a practical, affordable electric crossover.

The Trophy EV trim offers a good mix of premium touches and tech, with leather upholstery, an advanced infotainment system, and a solid suite of driver-assistance features. While it may not be as performance-focused or as tech-heavy as some of the more expensive electric vehicles on the market, the MG ZS EV offers incredible value for money, making it a strong competitor in the growing electric vehicle market.

For those who want an affordable, reliable, and stylish electric SUV with good range and practical features, the MG ZS 130kW Trophy EV is a fantastic choice. It’s a practical and eco-friendly option for everyday driving, with the added benefit of low running costs and a generous warranty.