The MG ZS 2.5 V6 24V, produced between 2001 and 2005, represented a somewhat unexpected offering from the British marque MG. Positioned as a more premium variant within the ZS range, it aimed to provide a sporting alternative to more conventional compact sedans. The ZS itself was a rebadged Rover 400, a product of the collaboration between British Motor Corporation (BMC) and Honda, and the 2.5 V6 model was a relatively late addition to the lineup, intended to inject some excitement and appeal to buyers seeking more performance. It was built on the Rover 400 platform, internally designated as the XW platform, and shared many components with its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | ZS |
| Generation | ZS |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 V6 24V (177 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.1 l/100 km (16.7 US mpg, 20 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 25K4F |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.8 mm (3.26 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 810 l (28.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4520 mm (177.95 in.) |
| Width | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Height | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| 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 suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the ZS 2.5 V6 was the 25K4F engine, a 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6. This engine, derived from the Rover KV6 family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It utilized multi-port fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders. The engine produced 177 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The ZS 2.5 V6 was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, a deliberate choice to enhance the driving experience and cater to enthusiasts. The transmission was a standard manual gearbox, designed to handle the V6’s power output.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 V6 ZS offered a noticeable performance upgrade over the lower-spec models. Acceleration to 60 mph was achieved in around 6.9 seconds, and it had a top speed of 139 mph. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. While not a sports car by any means, the V6 provided a smooth and responsive driving experience. The gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing good acceleration in all gears. Compared to the 1.8-liter four-cylinder versions, the V6 offered significantly more torque, making it more effortless for overtaking and cruising at highway speeds. However, the added weight of the V6 engine did impact handling slightly, making it feel less nimble than its four-cylinder counterparts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ZS 2.5 V6 was generally well-equipped, reflecting its position as the range-topping model. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an upgraded audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth or a combination of cloth and leather. Optional extras included a sunroof, alloy wheels, and upgraded sound systems. The dashboard layout was typical of Rover/MG designs of the period, with a functional and relatively straightforward design. The trim level was generally focused on providing a comfortable and refined interior, rather than a overtly sporty aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The ZS 2.5 V6 utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, leaning towards the comfort side due to the car’s intended role as a family sedan. The front stabilizer bar was thicker than those found on lower-spec models to help reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG ZS 2.5 V6 received mixed reviews. Critics praised the engine’s performance and smoothness, but some found the chassis and handling to be somewhat lacking compared to more modern competitors. Fuel economy was also a concern, with combined fuel consumption figures around 24.8 US mpg. Compared to the 1.8-liter models, the V6 offered a significant performance boost but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a slightly higher purchase price. The V6 was also more complex and potentially more expensive to maintain than the simpler four-cylinder engines.
Legacy
The MG ZS 2.5 V6, while not a massive sales success, remains a fondly remembered model among MG enthusiasts. The 25K4F V6 engine is generally considered to be a reliable unit, although regular maintenance is essential. Today, the ZS 2.5 V6 is a relatively rare car, and well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly collectible. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of MG owners and specialists exists to provide support and assistance. The car represents a final flourish of British engineering and a somewhat audacious attempt to inject some excitement into a fairly conservative segment.
