The MG ZS 1.5, produced from 2017 to 2020, represents MG Motor’s entry into the competitive compact SUV segment. Introduced as a successor to the MG5, the ZS aimed to offer affordability and practicality, particularly in markets like the United Kingdom and emerging economies. This specific 1.5-liter, 106 horsepower variant served as the base model, positioned as an accessible and economical option within the ZS lineup. It was a key component in MG’s strategy to re-establish the brand and appeal to a broader customer base. The ZS is built on a front-wheel-drive platform, and this generation is internally designated as the first generation of the ZS model.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | ZS |
| Generation | ZS (2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 4500 rpm (104 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VTI-tech |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1695 kg (3736.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 448 l (15.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1375 l (48.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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 | 4314 mm (169.84 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2048 mm (80.63 in.) |
| Height | 1636 mm (64.41 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2585 mm (101.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1529 mm (60.2 in.) |
| Rear track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The MG ZS 1.5 utilizes a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine, while not particularly powerful, was designed for fuel efficiency and reliability. The engine code is not widely publicized, but it shares similarities with engines used in other SAIC Motor vehicles. It features a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Timing and lift technology (VTI-tech) to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine produces 106 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 141 Nm (104 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. This power is delivered to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The engine’s relatively simple design contributes to its ease of maintenance and lower running costs.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine paired with the five-speed manual transmission provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 10.4 seconds, and the top speed is around 108.74 mph. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. In real-world driving, the engine feels somewhat strained when accelerating hard or climbing hills. Compared to higher-output versions of the ZS (which were later introduced with 1.0-liter turbo engines), the 1.5-liter feels noticeably slower. However, the manual transmission allows for a degree of driver control and engagement that is absent in the automatic variants. The light weight of the vehicle helps to mitigate the lack of power, making it reasonably nimble in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base-level MG ZS 1.5 typically came equipped with essential features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather seats, and a reversing camera.
Chassis & Braking
The MG ZS 1.5 utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it is not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. The steering is light and easy to use, making it well-suited for city driving. The ABS system provides effective braking performance in emergency situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG ZS 1.5 was generally well-received by critics as an affordable and practical SUV. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and low price point. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and somewhat basic interior. Compared to other compact SUVs in the market, such as the Nissan Juke or Renault Captur, the ZS offered a more affordable alternative, but with less refinement and performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 41.3 US mpg. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues, while others have experienced no significant problems.
Legacy
The MG ZS 1.5 played a significant role in MG’s revival, establishing the brand as a viable competitor in the compact SUV segment. While the 1.5-liter engine has since been superseded by more modern and efficient powertrains, it remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability and simplicity. The engine’s robust design and relatively low maintenance costs make it a practical option for budget-conscious buyers. The ZS, in general, has proven to be a successful model for MG, and the foundation laid by the 1.5-liter variant continues to influence the brand’s product strategy today.
