MG reveals second-gen ZS for European and Australian markets

MG has revealed the second-gen ZS for European and Australian markets. The previous-gen ZS, which is sold as the Astor in India, will receive this generational update in the coming years.

The new ZS features a revamped fascia with a new octagonal grille, a sportier-looking bumper and redesigned headlamps. The bonnet appears slightly longer than the current version, while the nose is flatter. The grille and bumper design seem to be inspired by the MG3 hatchback. The MG emblem is now placed on top of the front bumper instead of the grille.

At the rear, the SUV gets new tail-lamps, a redesigned tailgate and a new bumper. The registration plate is now positioned in the middle of the tailgate as opposed to the bumper-mounted unit seen on its predecessor. The window area looks larger than before, while the alloy wheel design is also new on the updated ZS.

On the inside, the new-gen ZS gets a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, restyled AC vents and centre console, and a new steering wheel. Other features include a 7-inch digital driver’s display, rear privacy glass, leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, six-way electrically adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, and a 360-degree camera. It also gets ADAS Level 2 safety tech such as Active Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more.

Powering the new MG ZS is a 1.5-litre petrol engine that makes 102hp, and when paired to a 136hp/250Nm electric motor, it puts out 196hp and 343Nm. MG claims that the SUV can sprint from 0-100kph in 8.7 seconds, and has a top speed of 167kph.

Pricing for the new MG ZS starts at £21,995 in the UK (Rs 24.39 lakh). In India, the Astor is priced between Rs 9.98 lakh and Rs 18.08 lakh. MG Motor India is yet to reveal the launch timeline of the next-gen Astor (ZS) here, although the SUV is one of the eight products that MG has planned to launch in India between 2025 and 2028.