Electric cars are no longer a thing of the future—they’re here, and they’re getting better with every update. MG ZS EV has been around for a while now, quietly building its reputation as a solid, practical electric SUV. With this latest version, MG has sharpened the design, bumped up the battery range, and packed in more features. But is it good enough to be your only car? Let’s break it down.
Looks: Sleeker, More Modern, But Still Familiar
At first glance, the updated ZS EV doesn’t look wildly different, but the changes MG has made do give it a sharper, more premium presence.
- New LED headlamps replace the old halogen setup, making the front end look more high-tech while improving night-time visibility.
- Closed-off grille—because it’s an EV, it doesn’t need a traditional grille, so MG has cleaned up the front for better aerodynamics.
- Charging port repositioned—it now sits right next to the MG badge, making it easier to access.
- 17-inch alloy wheels—they’ve got a new design, though the size remains unchanged.
- Updated rear end—slimmer LED taillights and a reworked bumper give it a fresher, more upmarket look.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
| What Works | What Doesn’t |
|---|---|
| Looks more futuristic and premium | Still resembles the petrol-powered MG Astor |
| LED lighting makes a big difference | No major structural changes |
| Retains a practical, balanced stance | Could have had a more distinct visual identity |
Some Similar Priced Petrol and Diesel Car
Cabin Feel: Tech-Loaded, Comfortable, But Not Perfect
Inside, the ZS EV feels modern and well-equipped. MG has made a few key improvements, but there are still some missing features that might leave you wanting more.
- New 10.1-inch touchscreen—bigger than before, with sharper graphics and better responsiveness.
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster—fully digital now, but the interface isn’t the most intuitive.
- Wireless charging & auto climate control—good additions that make daily life easier.
- Rear AC vents & armrest—finally! A much-needed update for better rear passenger comfort.
- Panoramic sunroof—makes the cabin feel airy and spacious.
- Smart connectivity—SIM-based features, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto all included.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
| What Works | What Doesn’t |
|---|---|
| Bigger, more responsive touchscreen | No ventilated seats, which is a letdown at this price |
| Wireless charging and smart tech | Digital instrument cluster could be easier to use |
| Rear AC vents improve comfort for passengers | Touch-sensitive controls might not be everyone’s favorite |
Performance & Battery: More Power, More Range
MG has given the ZS EV a healthy boost in power and range, making it more capable than before.
- Battery capacity bumped up—official range now 461 km (ARAI-certified), though expect closer to 300–350 km in real-world conditions.
- Motor power increased—now 176 hp and 280 Nm torque, up from 143 hp.
- Acceleration—0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, which is pretty quick for an EV in this segment.
- Driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport, with Eco being the best for maximizing range.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
| What Works | What Doesn’t |
|---|---|
| Longer range than before | Regenerative braking isn’t very effective |
| More power without compromising efficiency | No paddle shifters to adjust regen braking |
| Driving modes help optimize efficiency | Power delivery tapers off at higher speeds |
Charging: Fast, But Planning is Key
Charging an EV is always a concern, but the ZS EV offers a few options:
- 7.4 kW AC Wallbox Charger—takes 8.5–9 hours for a full charge.
- 50 kW DC Fast Charger—0–80% in 60 minutes, great for quick top-ups.
- Portable charger—a backup solution, but painfully slow.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
| What Works | What Doesn’t |
|---|---|
| Fast charging capability | Charging infrastructure still needs improvement |
| Home charging is easy with the wallbox setup | DC fast charging requires planning for long trips |
Price & Verdict: Is It Worth Your Money?
From ₹18.98 lakh to ₹25.75 lakh (ex-showroom), the ZS EV isn’t cheap. It costs significantly more than some rivals, like the Tata Nexon EV, but offers a bigger battery, more features, and a more premium cabin.
Who Should Consider It?
✔️ City commuters who want a refined, future-ready EV.
✔️ Buyers looking for a premium, feature-rich electric SUV.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
❌ Frequent highway travelers who don’t want to worry about charging stops.
❌ Enthusiasts looking for a sporty EV—this is more about comfort and practicality.
FAQs:
1. What’s the real-world range of the MG ZS EV?
Expect 300–350 km, depending on driving style and conditions.
2. How long does it take to charge the ZS EV?
AC Wallbox Charger: 8.5–9 hours
DC Fast Charger: 0–80% in 60 minutes
3. Does the MG ZS EV have ADAS features?
No, but it does come with blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
4. Is the MG ZS EV good for long-distance travel?
It’s possible, but you’ll need to plan charging stops. It’s best suited for city and suburban use.
5. How does it compare to the Tata Nexon EV?
The ZS EV has a longer range, bigger battery, and more features, but it’s also significantly more expensive.
Final Thoughts: A Practical, Well-Rounded EV With a Few Compromises
The MG ZS EV is a well-balanced electric SUV that offers a solid mix of range, features, and practicality. It’s not the most exciting EV to drive, and it still lacks a few key features, but for someone looking for a premium, future-proof electric car, it’s one of the best options in this price range.
Author- Ayush
