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MG Philippines is ready to launch the new ZS next week

The popular crossover will now come electrified

The design of the second-gen ZS follows off from the ZST. PHOTO BY JUSTIN YOUNG

The MG ZS has become an iconic name for being the pseudo-British brand’s most successful model since its relaunch in 2018, as it came at the right time when crossovers were booming. Now, SAIC Motor Philippines wants to repeat that winning formula with the next generation.

The new ZS follows the new corporate look seen in the MG 3 hatchback, accentuated by the aggressive overhang extending the body length to 4,430mm. Its height has been slightly reduced to 1,635mm, which is 13mm lower than the previous model (possibly for aerodynamic improvements).

This generation no longer includes a sole EV variant. PHOTOS BY JUSTIN YOUNG

The second-generation crossover has four trim levels in total, each utilizing a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine in different configurations. The Comfort and the Luxury stay naturally aspirated with 110hp and 141Nm, while the turbocharged Sport bumps the figure to 168hp and 275Nm.

However, the top-of-the-line Hybrid+ pairs it with a 1.83kWh battery pack for a combined output of 197hp. While the internal-combustion variants are mated to a CVT, the electrified model is driven with a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission.

The Sport and the Hybrid+ are offered with an electronic gear shifter in a thruster shape. PHOTOS BY JUSTIN YOUNG

In its highest specification, the modernized dashboard features a 7.5-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other amenities include a six-speaker system, front driver and passenger seat heaters, and a 360° camera.

For safety, the top trims are equipped with MG Pilot, which includes lane change assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection (exclusive to the Hybrid+).

Will the new ZS be just as big of a hit as before? PHOTOS BY JUSTIN YOUNG AND JUSTINE MIRALLES

At the time of reporting, prices for the second-gen ZS haven’t been announced as the formal launch will be on July 3. So far, the new management has been slowly revamping its current lineup, and this second coming might finally shake up the subcompact crossover game in the country as it did seven years ago.



Justin Young

Justin loves cars of all forms. Molded by motoring TV shows and Internet car culture, he sees the world from a different perspective that not many get to see every day.



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