2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ Review: It’s got a pretty big issue…

[@sneakyfoz3692]

This should be recalled until they can fix the issues with the way it drives. Not having acceleration when it is expected is a safety concern in certain situations

[@tomskellern6128]

ANCAP and the ADR agencies should be on top of this

[@sneakyfoz3692]

@ you would think so, but ANCAP are more interested these days in useless driver distraction systems instead of real life safety issues resultant from totally flawed design or implementation, like a car that is supposed to accelerate but randomly decides not too. Bizarro world.

[@SuperMaverick09]

Have to say, I've not seen this issue; I wonder if this was a one-off?

[@copaloadofthis]

@@SuperMaverick09... Just watched the 'Right Car' review, and Matt didn't seem to have the same problem.

[@zhenmingyu6186]

​@@SuperMaverick09 It's to be expected when you have 0 charge in the battery. That basically means that you lost your electric motor, which is the main source of torque. I'm just wondering in what situation will one deplete the battery.

[@chucknorris8704]

That decelaration issue is frankly very dangerous. Hope MG fix that.

[@Moopix1]

I’ve driven one of these and I never had any issues with power delivery. After a two hour drive I found it really smooth surprisingly quick and almost flawless.

[@littlevo9]

J’en ai essayé un aussi et même constat que vous,ça fonctionne à merveille et l’auto est rapide!

[@warrencroft]

i've bought one of them and have had no issues with any power delivery.

[@Jestey6]

The reviewer wears size 15 shoes, and doesn’t understand how hybrids work.

[@pnelson89]

That will would get me killed trying to overtake a truck at 100kmh.

[@littlevo9]

Je l’ai essayé,quand vous roulez avec il est toujours chargé et prêt à faire feu ,c’est d’ailleurs le seul essais ou l’ont voit ce problème,quand je l’ai essayé aucun problème ça avait de la puissance !

[@CryptoObserver-0]

I do agree, this is a serious safety concern. Going to overtake a truck or caravan on a country road and you get halfway past them and the car dies with no power.... wow.... that's a deal breaker. The car looks sensational and has a really sharp price (I like it!) - but it needs to be pulled from sale asap until engineers can recalibrate the hybrid system to ensure that never happens again.

[@sidjyothi]

Hey mate, it’s the same issue as the MG3 hybrid… power delivery inconsistent, so the best way of driving it is sedately. As long as there is charge in the battery, it’s quite zesty. Fuel economy is not as good as the Toyotas.. best I’ve seen is 3.7l/100. Average over 1400km is 4.8l/100

[@Donster888]

Thanks mate... was planning to take it for a test drive. Now I won't bother. Where is daddy Jacob?

[@Kenno62]

Hopefully just a software fix to keep a balance in the battery. Pretty sure the aircon steering wheel controls map through a favourite button. Press the button and the joystick controls the aircon. Press again and it’s back to volume and station/track

[@sw2092]

What I find even more scary is that you are the only reviewer to mention this, Matt. What are the other reviewers doing not to call this out? Massive kudos to you for being the whistleblower here. This is a massively dangerous problem for all the obvious reasons. 'Just drive it gently' doesn't work when you have the family on board and are on the wrong side of the road overtaking a B-double uphill.

[@SuperMaverick09]

Agree it's good that it's been called out; but is this problem just with that vehicle? Or are all if them the same?

[@sw2092]

@@SuperMaverick09 I believe he mentioned that the same thing happened in the MG3 with the same drivetrain, so it doesn't seem isolated.

[@SuperMaverick09]

One of the most informative reviews on this vehicle I have seen. In truth, it has so much gear, space and functionality for half the price of its nearest rivals that uts a no trainer. Very interested in the 'launch' problem though in truth, I don't drag-race. I drive a Lexus RC200T F-Sport right now. It has eco, normal, sport and sport S+ modes. In 3 years I have very, very rarely needed to take it out of 'normal' snd sydpect gir most MG drivers, they will very rarely use 'Sport' which seems to be where the drivetrain issue lies? Well done MG for calling plastic, plastic! Yeah i prefer cloth anyway! Absurd though it is, no panoramic for dark and gloomy UK and no British Racing Green in... Britain!!!! WTF!?

[@nathansmith6914]

Your videos always take me away to a magical land where unicorns are commonplace to the point of being a dietary staple. Thank you wonderful KZbin person. ❤🎉

[@LensProWork]

I've watched over 50 reviews of this car from around the world. No one else had encountered this problem or reported anything comparable. Matt is the only one who has brought this issue to light. I'm curious what went wrong with how his review was conducted. Several comments on other reviews I viewed today on Australian KZbin channels underscore Matt's significant issue. I even came across comments suggesting that Australia shouldn't permit the car. I suppose MG must answer immediately and clarify what is going on. I ordered the car, and I genuinely want to know if my family and I are safe in it.

[@RodneyW]

It is a real issue, and will rear its head in specific conditions - especially on freeways (when the opportunity to recharge is limited because the engine is fully dedicated to keeping you moving) or in hilly country. If you only pootling around the city, on level ground, with plenty of stop-start regeneration opportunities, you will (probably) not experience the problem. CarsGuide have reported the same issue, as have Drive. Driving Enthusiast reported it in his review of the MG3 (which has the same powertrain). As far as other aspects of safety go, I would be waiting until the ANCAP assessment is available. The MG3 did not do well, including in core aspects of occupant protection.

[@gregb1599]

Oh, and the hybrid uses more fuel on the highway than the non hybrid! On top of that fail, the hybrid uses 95 octane, while the non hybrid uses 91!

[@LensProWork]

​ @RodneyW Thanks for your reply, mate. I watched the CarsGuide review video, but even when I went to the website for the written review, I couldn't find any reference to this issue. However, the Drive's review accurately describes the issue. Although they don't mention it on KZbin, their website explains that driving on a hilly motorway while trying to overtake another car can trigger an issue if the battery is under 15% charged. They also mention that they experienced this issue with the MG3 Hybrid. Based on the assumption that the ZS Hybrid system is similar, they believe the issue will also arise under similar conditions, specifically on a hilly motorway with a battery that is less than 15% charged. They believe a software update could resolve this issue if it includes a protection feature that prevents the battery from depleting below 30-40% of its charge.

[@RodneyW]

@@LensProWork I could have sworn that CG did report it... oh well. Two out of three ain't bad! I'm always skeptical of these launch events. The reviewers got free flights, a bit of a fang through the countryside (the Pacific Highway) and a lovely feed at Saddles (Mt White). Friendly chats to the MG Execs... does not create an environment for fearless criticism. I respect the integrity of those who are raising concerns.

[@LensProWork]

@@RodneyW Ultimately, if this is a significant issue that jeopardises safety, I believe MG can resolve it simply by updating the system software.

[@RodneyW]

This is why BYD aims to maintain a 25% minimum SoC in the Sealion 6. MG has been relatively aggressive with the power deployment through the electric motor, which may impress people on a short test drive, but it increases the chances of running out of charge if you drive assertively, or in hilly areas.

[@gregb1599]

BYD has a huge battery compared to the MG as its a prev

[@Car-l4f]

Great review

[@jeppo1185]

I pretty much watch each review just for the "12v socky wocky" comment:) Didn't disappoint with this review either, Matt😉

[@simonr23]

that power issue should be a stop sale issue. our national motoring regulator should be checking that the cars we import are fit for purpose - this isn't just a dig at MG here. so many brands have issues that should see them returned to sender.

[@chantellemcswain4120]

Matt, do you reckon you could get hold of the xpeng g6 for a review please 😊

[@Tony_P567]

No other reviewer has reported this problem with acceleration, so I suspect it's a fault with this particular car that needs fixing.

[@mighty_bunny]

I do hope they fix the power issue. There's a lot to love here otherwise.

[@Jestey6]

For sensible drivers, there isn’t a power issue. An uninformed reviewer is the problem.

[@louieisme]

Would be dangerous to drive uphill since the battery gets consumed, then engine kicks but you decelerate. ☠

[@sanchitkhandelwal3389]

rear looks like old bmw x1

[@SonicView09]

Yes that’s what I was thinking same as BMW

[@JoePeddie]

I own a Dacia hybrid, it had a ECU update to stop the battery running to zero, for the same reason. It's a simple update . All MG have to do is update , so the battery starts charging at two bars before it runs dry.

[@thefathippy]

I've discovered the joys of voice command for AC on the MG4 - except that one time when it misheard and turned the fan up to blast, then couldn't hear me yelling to turn it down! 😂

[@mga71]

How the hell has that passed quality control unless there is none, just when you thought MG was bad for delivering a car with a zero ancap rating they pull this.

[@dannyhong3195]

When on full charge, many hybrids works all good and same, but when on low SOC, BYD will show their strength. But that’s mainly for the PHEVs.. for those hybrids MG just simply silly mistakes. I even went to the MG for an interview last year, well, they tuned me down. So here is their product with their favorite product manager.

[@ianking8197]

Surely just a software update?

[@paulb1951]

You’d think so, as per MG it’ll be a next service thing. Personally would only consider an EV from them, our MG4 is fantastic value and trouble free.

[@kindness-villain]

The driving experience of the Jaecoo J7 Phev (new Tiggo 7 Pro Phev) is much better than that of the MG HS Phev. The power switching between the motor and the engine is very smooth. It will be introduced to Australia for sale next year.

[@markhansford5930]

1200 unread messages?? Lordy me....

[@MakhanSinghSydneyWala]

hey, when are you guys doing a review for the new prado?

[@TheAlexantube]

Surely the issues with power delivery can be fixed with a software update to limit the power to the wheels in favour of maintaining a minimum state of charge…

[@padrebardas]

Thanks mate for that objective review and the clear demonstration of the issue you faced. I hope more reviewers would be as honest as you are.

[@theodociocozanitis5437]

Went to overtake someone on a wheelchair and I lost the race

[@ellisrochlin2267]

good attempt better drive and upgraded interior on front end , huge warranty but 2017 side veiw yawn and 2015 rear veiw Zzz . Price wise INFO CENTRE will be a bit laggy . No wireless charger and no oomph with low battery ? could effect the punters buy or not to buy

[@massimoraimondi-arte2933]

It's not a racing car, everyone evaluate the speed and the time it takes from 0 to 100 then in all European roads there are limits ranging from 120/130 kmh. You can only race on the track and this is not the right car

[@AmelianaTSIIX]

Well shit.... i had high hopes for this one. I was waiting for someone to do a review on the drivetrain. I guess I'll go for the petrol HS....

[@oscarg7998]

Gracias desde España. Aquí los probadores insinúan el problema pero no lo reportan claramente y MG no da respuesta. Me parece algo determinante para elegir comprar o no este Hybrido. No es un deportivo pero no puede ser que sea el conductor quién supla la mala gestión de la batería. Parece que lo han sacado a la venta antes de probarlo lo suficiente y sin un control de calidad adecuado. Tenia uno reservado pero esto me hace cambiar de opinión. Cuando lo probé tenía la batería al 100% y no da tiempo a que te pase eso, pero con la seguridad no se juega. No deberían permitir venderlo en esas condiciones. Además no indica claramente cuánta batería te queda para decidir si adelantas o no. La seguridad no puede ser una lotería. Un crítico decente, un MG indecente. Y yo lo iba a comprar. No en estas condiciones.

[@tonybennett638]

Thanks but no thanks...

[@1MrBryn]

Seems like it's worth spending the extra money over the MG3 hybrid, a car that I found extremely disappointing when I drove it a few months ago. I spent a week in the old ZS when I was in Tassie, and despite being an older platform, it was a much better overall driving experience than the new 3, despite being comically slow.

[@AgraelDemonLord]

I dont have good experience with fixing factory based issues. I had few with my MG ZS 2022. Many electronic issues with wipers, tablet or parking break that dealer had to fix on it`s own. SAIC will not fix some issues by their iniciative, they just complete car and ship them to the World.

[@garycusack9247]

i would still take a good 2nd hand hybrid rav4 over this thing but i do like the green colour must admit but thats about all

[@DiHandley]

Considering MG’s tendency to give massive discounts ($10k) if sales aren’t going well, I think I’ll spend my money elsewhere.

[@luvboricha]

Are we going to get the new HS review as well?

[@AgraelDemonLord]

In Eastern Europe is even more expensive top spec MG ZS Hybrid+ ... over 27000€

[@theanswer1993]

And they said this is better than Duster :D Dacia for the win!

[@magdalenaserafinkucaj5172]

That would be dead in hills

[@gregb1599]

How much would a decent voice control cost? "Set heating to 21 degrees" so simple no hunting though the menus!

[@joaquingallego2995]

Can you say the autonomy in electric mode please? The say 11km, but i think that is too much...

[@hsucic77]

I just bought a Chery Tiggo Pro 4 and it absolutely craps all over the MG. I test drove the ZS Hybrid + and it felt tepid and underwhelming. The Tiggo is awesome inside and out and has a pretty zippy engine with the 1.5L turbo

[@erkerk4640]

Y would thy use Atkinson?

[@stevenalexander403]

Great and honest review from Matt as per usual and he aleats makes it more enjoyable to watch too. C'mon China, get it right, how can you release such a vehicle with so many issues. If you expect to sell your el-cheapo slave labour built vehicles in a first world nation we have higher expectations and throwing in a long warranty alone doesn't cut it, especially when owners need repairs or spare parts that Do Not Exist and they're forced to wait weeks or months to become available...cheap, cheap, cheap and unprepared, so if you want to play with the big boys you need to pull up your socks, so offering a el-cheapo prices with a meaningless warranty that you can't back-up is misleading the Aussie consumer. IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO SELL YOUR WARES IN AUSTRALIA NOT A RIGHT. Design is subjective, the external design of this vehicle is inoffensive whilst being somewhat anonymous amongst all other Chinese car manufacturers, internally it appears quite functional and pleasant to the eye, particularly the upper dashboard areas and steering wheel, however it all comes to pieces in other areas like the front seats that appear to be crammed in between the front doors and lower console which itself is poorly designed and how can the serious omission of a wireless charger be acceptable in this day and age?, furthermore was the designer of that large and nonsensical gear shifter drunk at the time? Too many issues here plus Matt's comments regarding the drivetrain are a major concern and seem to be a potential danger too. That's my rant for today...

[@Jestey6]

Regarding the “One Big Problem”. Poor driving is the problem. This is not a high performance sports car. It is primarily intended for urban use, but is perfectly capable on A roads and motorways, providing a little common sense is used. If ANY hybrid is driven in the same way as the reviewer, drove this car, the traction battery WILL become exhausted, and therefore acceleration will be limited to that provided by a 102PS engine. The hybrid powertrain integrates the 102PS 1.5-litre petrol engine with the 136PS traction motor for a combined output of 196PS. This combination ensures a refined driving experience with excellent performance, reaching 62mph from rest in just 8.7 seconds. The ‘drivers screen’ provides a wealth of information, including the state of the traction battery, the reviewer however must be oblivious to this. This lack of knowledge is further demonstrated by the conclusion at 2:30, when he implies that the Air Conditioning Condenser is part of the engine cooling system.

[@erkerk4640]

Toyota corolla cross, hyndai kona are priced 15K AUD more with same specs

[@t8polestarcyan22]

I think I'll stick to our ZS EV. Otherwise I'll go for a MG 4 or even a ES 5.

[@serjezati4244]

I can see how good is my T-CROSS

[@Coastmac2001]

What chinese cars don't have issues?? Some mightn't, but a heck of a lot appear to have. Looks can be deceiving

[@simonmanners4108]

My lawn mower has a bigger battery… I’m not joking it has. Sorry but 1.83kwh is a pitifully tiny battery. The bog standard 12v 100ah batteries you buy from literally anywhere are 1.28kwh. This is going to be the problem with that hybrid system.

[@Goatman-wl5nk]

Errrr that's a firm no

[@MPSFrance]

That's because it's not supposed to be driven in a non economical way, like you probably did during the review. I'm almost sure you drove it quite hard and not in eco mode for funny purpose and see what's going on with the handling etc Then you didnt check the internal battery which was exhausted and so you test maybe once ... the full power is gone, because the internal combustion engine needs to recharge the battery. In normal life that should never happen , except ifyou think that is a sport car or if you live on the top of a mountain and so your battery can't last enough "maybe" to drive there with the normal power / behavior MG is aware of these and may provide a firmware update soon or late

[@RodneyW]

Try driving around Sydney sometime.

[@YZJB]

Yet in a Toyota hybrid you can literally do back-to-back 0-100km/h runs without a change in acceleration numbers. This MG system is just poorly executed

[@RodneyW]

@@YZJB And that's when the MG is brand new. Imagine what how bad it is when the battery starts to degrade....

[@dermotporter5280]

The reviewer says it all,this car is not meant to be thrown around like a Sports car.The hybrid battery regenerates via the braking system.

[@LensProWork]

I believe the reviewer's failure to follow the recommended driving style and ECO mode led to the battery's exhaustion. This car is not a sports car; it requires a small percentage of battery power at all times, and if you run it without paying attention, you may encounter the same issue as the reviewer in the video. For individuals such as myself who prioritise economy and drive carefully, I believe the car is reasonably priced, equipped with all the current safety systems, and features 3D cameras that aid in parking in tight spaces in crowded cities. I am not saying that this car is perfect, but if you go to Toyota for an equivalent Corolla Cross Hybrid equipped with the same systems, you will have to pay significantly more (i.e., $14K+), not to mention the cheap plastics Toyota uses. 😀 People should give a chance to cheap cars competing in the market (considering they are safe) so the big traditional manufacturers like Toyota, VW, and other Germans get the message and bring us cars that are affordable for the money we get paid.

[@mighty_bunny]

It's not just Matt. Reviews from other publications have flagged this too. And it's not something that other hybrids experience to nearly this degree.

[@mighty_bunny]

And moreover, he did say a lot of what you've said here. It is good, it just needs some tweaks to software.

[@LensProWork]

​@@mighty_bunny I agree, this could potentially be the solution to the issue. All new cars appear capable of remote updates, and I hope this one is no exception. Therefore, MG will need to protect you against battery exhaustion with an update to the system software.

[@Gielinor_Gear]

I have been in the motor trade for over 12 years now Chinese products apart from BYD avoid!!! they spend more time in the service centre then on customers drive ways.

[@glennO-e9r]

Cool story bro.

[@tradingswamyintelugu6541]

Hybrid vehicles getting issuess accelaration

[@christo123]

Sounds bloody dangerous to me, what happens when you are overtaking on a 2 way road and it doesnt have the power to pass. NO THANK YOU

[@hobo1704]

MGs are junk

[@GlowingTube]

Hmmm, small boot, higher prices, rubbish Hybrid response curve, odd front end styling... yeah, nah.

[@ETERNITY777]

😡😡😡 THIS CAR SUCKS 😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡

[@itsmearv07]

People still buy it even it has got issues or not because it is cheap. 😂😂