The MG ZS (2024) 1.5L, producing 116 horsepower, represents MG Motor’s entry-level offering in the compact SUV segment. Introduced in March 2025, this variant is positioned as an affordable and practical choice for buyers seeking a no-frills, fuel-efficient vehicle. It builds upon the foundation of the current ZS generation, which debuted in 2017, and slots into a lineup that also includes more powerful turbocharged engine options. The 2024 ZS is primarily targeted towards the European and Asian markets, with a growing presence in other regions as MG expands its global footprint. This particular configuration, with its naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine and five-speed manual transmission, aims to balance cost-effectiveness with acceptable performance for everyday driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | ZS |
| Generation | ZS (2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 117.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp |
| Power per litre | 77.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 148 Nm (109.16 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15FCD |
| Engine displacement | 1495 cm3 (91.23 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.1 mm (3.47 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 443 l (15.64 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1457 l (51.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal, 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4430 mm (174.41 in.) |
| Width | 1818 mm (71.57 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2087 mm (82.17 in.) |
| Height | 1502 mm (59.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2610 mm (102.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.64 m (34.91 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The MG ZS 1.5L is powered by the 15FCD engine, a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, a relatively simple and cost-effective technology. The engine boasts a compression ratio of 12.2:1, contributing to its efficiency. It also incorporates a start/stop system and a particulate filter to meet Euro 6e emission standards. The engine produces 116 horsepower and 148 Nm (109.16 lb.-ft.) of torque. This power is delivered to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. While not a particularly advanced powertrain, the 15FCD is known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs. The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 11.9 seconds, and the top speed is around 111.23 mph. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needs to be revved to access its peak power. This can result in a somewhat noisy driving experience during acceleration. Compared to higher-output turbocharged versions of the ZS, the 1.5L feels noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, for urban commuting and everyday driving, the engine provides sufficient power. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience than an automatic, allowing drivers to better control the engine’s power band.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5L variant of the MG ZS typically comes with a base level of equipment. Standard features generally include air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as airbags are also standard. Higher trim levels, available as optional upgrades, may include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, and the dashboard features a functional, if somewhat basic, design. The focus is on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The MG ZS utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride over most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the ZS is not designed for aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG ZS 1.5L has been generally well-received as an affordable and practical SUV. Critics have praised its value for money, spacious interior, and decent fuel economy. However, the engine’s lack of power has been a common criticism. Compared to other trims in the ZS lineup, such as the turbocharged 1.0L, the 1.5L offers lower performance but better fuel economy and potentially lower maintenance costs. In terms of reliability, the 15FCD engine has proven to be relatively robust, although long-term durability data is still emerging.
Legacy
The MG ZS 1.5L represents a significant step for MG Motor in establishing itself as a competitive player in the global automotive market. While not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of technology or performance, it offers a compelling combination of affordability, practicality, and reliability. As a used car, the 1.5L ZS is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly due to its low running costs and simple mechanical design. Its long-term legacy will likely be as a dependable and accessible SUV for budget-conscious buyers.
