MG ZS EV ULTIMATE REVIEW: 3 things you should know before buying it

[@michaelfink64]

Great, honest review, Chris. When you have forked out for a new car, there is a natural tendency to talk it up, so it is nice that you have told it like it is. It's a pity MG hasn't put any effort into updating the software for what would otherwise be a decent EV.

[@FalkinerTim]

If you look at the older UK videos on the MG ZS EV, it is clear MG has made a number of modifications to the software. What bugs me is the body and mechanics of the car are brilliant but there are some things that are, as one British reviewer observed, "quirky". They are not deal breakers though and the car is excellent value and good to drive. Also, as you become familiar with the car, you get to accept them and to appreciate some of the good things such as the touch buttons on the door handles, the start button and the dial. You get so you can hop in the car and have it going very quickly.

[@briankavanagh7191]

Tim, I have one gripe, just wish the range had another 60 miles, otherwise very pleased with my ZS EV, but have you seen the new KIA EV6 OMG.

[@FalkinerTim]

@@briankavanagh7191 I think we will be seeing better and cheaper EVs coming thick and fast soon but I wanted to get an EV and the MG was and still is the best deal for me. I only use mine as a city car and do not need a greater range. I just charge mine up every five or six days when it gets below 100 km. In lockdown it is about twice a month!

[@evguy2154]

Hi Chris When the car was launched the battery switchas was the only way you could see the range. Since the software update the temp and the range is visible all the time. Shame MG didn't reallocate the switch to say percentage of battery left. Big mistake was not having over the air updates Needs a head up display for speed and a more integrated central screen. Have you noticed the speed limit is a good size when you have the speed display showing. When it goes to pilot the speed limit sign goes small and is difficult to see However it is a brilliant car and if I want, I have £15000 to add some extras like a Thai head unit with connectivity!

[@johnhallows]

An honest assessment that matches my experiences. The poor HVAC control/air distribution is my biggest frustration. I’ve also been known to have driven a few kms with the front flap open. Otherwise a great runabout. Thanks Chris.

[@grahamtoyn2912]

Hi Chris I enjoyed the video on the MG ZS EV, you quite rightly bemoaned the enfotainment system which at times can be very slow but here in the UK there is a software update for it the code for it is SA020.I had mine in at the dealership about six week's ago and they did the update while I waited although I went for a walk into town and they rang me after a couple of hours to tell me the car was ready.within that couple of hours they also washed and dried the car for me and it was all free of charge.Any way the update has made a big difference and I have also noticed that there are some new features on the maps when useing the satnav which I am highly delighted with.One of those features is when you have set a destination as you are driving along a message pops up on screen suggesting an alternative route if you want or you can just ignore it and carries on the original route.On another note my MG is the same colour as your car it's called Pimlico blue named after a posh suburb of the city of London.Keep these videos of EVs coming .kind regards and stay safe.

[@bdeithrick]

Bang on. You caught all the negatives. The cruise brakes are the worst.

[@Tanocchio]

Great review, thanks. With the HVAC, you need to press the button again and the air beam changes, offering a variety of directions.

[@darioworrell3968]

Hello all the way from Barbados. I loved this review. Yes there are Mgs selling here and I've seen a few of them on the road. Being that Barbados is such a small island this would be great for my family. currently they are retailing at $99 998 Barbados dollars so its a big investment but I believe in the long run it will pay for itself. especially if I couple it with a solar roof and of course i would install the home charger as well.

[@anantv1825]

Hey Chris, that was perfect review. Crisp, clear and covered all the points. Planning to buy one here in India. Thanks for your inputs👍👍👍

[@petero2778]

Great honest and thorough review Chris, well done!

[@MacBaerFFM]

first of all, thanks for this video and your honest review. I'm pondering getting a MG ZS EV to replace my phase I Renault Zoe. Speaking of the charge port in front and the flap...Zoe noticed me a couple of times that the flap is open and I reckon this must have been due to the key card with the flap remote button being pressed by accident while in my trousers front pocket. I understand the MG's flap is always "unlocked" while the car is unlocked and just held in position by some mechanical push-to-snap function. I had my Zoe into service a couple of days ago and Renault gave me a brand new EV which is sold in Europe as "Dacia Spring electric" but maybe as Renault in other markets by the name K-ZE. This also comes with a front flap which is opened by a lever right next to the lever for opening the bonnet. I also had it more than once during that day that I noticed all of a sudden the flap being open - which luckily can be seen from the drivers seating position. Maybe both the MG and Dacia / Renault flap locks are so flimsy they give in as soon as you ride over some pit or bump. Either way, that must not happen and if it does, at minimum a warning signal should be given to the driver in the dash. HVAC never noticed in other KZbinr's videos - who also complain about the HVAC - that one has to turn the knob like crazy to go either up or down with the temperature. Further, there should be a separate reading for the temp preset. I also agree on the battery button being a joke...as a software developer, I'd be ashamed to death for implementing such a nonsense function. Now apart from selling my other cars first it's the question if the MG ZS EV is about to see some updates...both on the software and head unit, the non-regen while in ACC, indication of SoC, remote control of some car functions via app and maybe 11kW AC charging and a bigger battery (50-64 kWh)...if that would happen....the car would be a definite "yes" for me.

[@haneradus9323]

Good review. Own a MGZSEV driving15000 km happy km. I love the adaptiv cruise controle and seldon hear noisy breaking. It goes from 120 km till o km and back without touching the trottle. The flimsy charge cover i agree but another youtuber tested the breaking during adaptive cruise control and found out, in his daily commute, that there is hardly any difference in kwh. It is perhapse even better to use the breakes to give rust no change. In my car the lane assist has a blue botton, like adaptive cruise controle that does't seem to work. Your gesture about the powerbutton is good.

[@MrCrouton80]

Great video Chris! I love the music tracks that you've picked. Also I really like the less scripted/more natural conversation format. Tops! 😃 I also like the warts and all approach, a true representation of your experience with the car. I think the ZS is a great option as an entry level vehicle, let's hope MG can address some of the software niggles.

[@adammilward2820]

Good review. Yesterday I test drove my first EV I went down to see a 2019 Zoe for $40999. It was a nice drive but feels uncomfortable cornering a bit like a boat, I wasn’t won over by its regen. The acceleration even in eco maxing out at 95kph if felt was okay and acceptable.the range is more than enough for me to do long trips. While sitting in the car park thinking it over price vs range and poor knowledge and lack of giving one ounce of interest in the car by the sales man, I couldn’t bring myself to justify the price because of the charging and still I am unsure if the Zoe here maxes out at 22kw or 40kw AC. I had for gotten about the mg dealer over the road. Once I thought what the hell go test drive a ZS ev, I was quite surprised even in eco mode the acceleration blew the Zoe away, the features, trim & comforts have driven me to genuinely consider the MG. Just the thought of slightly less efficiency and over twice the possible charging speed I a stand out feature for me, even though on the test drive 30-40 minutes apart the vehicles only had a 6wH/km difference in efficiency and a much more spirited drive in the ZS. The more enthusiastic salesman helped the experience even if he was off in a few of his specs “it charges up to 350kW it just depends on the temperature and conditions”. Thanks for the great videos to make the decision process easier. 👍

[@ekeiram8]

Nice review! I own a MG ZS EV. My previous car was a 2010 RAV4 and although I noticed some of the problems you mention it was still an amazing upgrade for that budget in terms of technology. Hopefully future versions of the software address some of the issues you point out.

[@3000Robbo]

Very engaging video! Packed with information. Nice camera work too, good job.

[@lynnwilliams3408]

Thanks Chris. Very informative review.

[@Jabariemoore]

Thinking of buying one here in Barbados! THANKS FOR THE INFO

[@ahmetatakanates1184]

Hello dears, I didn’t understand, for this car. Can I charge with 3phase?

[@methoxy66]

Similar, near 6 month owner of this vehicle. My previous car had climate control. Set to 23C, I always felt cold in winter and hot in summer. I prefer old school hotter and colder, like the MG. The up and down air direction change button is definitely a bug bear and I've still to work it out - I just keep pressing buttons until I get the result I'm after. I've never driven off with the charger cover up - and I'm not entirely sure how you do that - but agreed it should have a warning. You didn't mention that you can't pull the front wipers away from the windscreen for washing - there's a special "maintenance" sequence to put the wipers in the correct position first. Never seen that before. You also didn't mention all the incandescent bulbs in the vehicle: interior, boot, licence, etc. You'll want to swap all these out with LED. The back row is permanently unlit and you'll need to add some lighting in the rear. I don't stuff around with the likes of Android Auto. The car plays music from a USB with a well implemented cover-art system (far better than Toyota's) and the in-built navigation is easy to use with perfect directions and Australian voicing.

[@chrisvanderstock]

I've learnt to live with the lights, but they're up there with issues I have with it (just not my top 5). I'll do some LED light installs and improve cabin lighting (summer holidays). I've found a few good aftermarket kits with correct amperage resistors etc (stops the LEDs from flickering). But current light set up doesn't bother me enough... yet ;-)

[@MrHSIE]

Good morning Chris, Thanks for the review. Really well rounded. I loved the honesty, the drone footage and your candid easy going style. Disappointed with the news Tesla isn’t brining out a budget version I’m looking at other makes. The Kangoo just doesn’t have the range. This has its idiosyncrasies but I think it might be a good interim buy while I wait for innovative models and the major car makers to catch up. I was looking at some of the PHEV models but I’d rather have one or the other. Not a mix of both. I’m keen to take the MG for a test drive and see how we go. I wish the Tesla’s were more under 60k but however it’s not going to happen any time soon. I love the concept XBus that’s being released however realistically we won’t see that in Oz until late 2024/2025 if at all. Thanks for the review ad I’m keen to view your other productions.

[@anthonydromgool7158]

Great, honest review, Chris. Are you going to do a review on the updated long rang MG model? I have found it very difficult to get any information from my local dealers cheers Tony

[@chrisvanderstock]

That's the plan!

[@Javed1982]

Hello Chris Any further update on your ev since your video? Has any updates came from MG to fix those issues?

[@chrisvanderstock]

No, no updates or changes. I did a service earlier this year (or late last year?) and it was a nothing event. Purely an inspection which I felt was a waste of money. They say they checked for updates but didn't document this on the works done, so I'm considering going back and arguing that that they need to do a proper update. Owners in the know say that it takes them 5 - 8 hours to do, so don't do it given the time it takes. Otherwise, car is going smoothly and no issues.

[@Javed1982]

Oh well as least its cheap to run and buy. Thanks for update. Cheers mate.

[@shanehsiao4867]

Hi mate any idea when will the updated ZS EV arrive Australia? I’ve seen lots of reviews on KZbin from UK. Thank you

[@duanebonney]

Hi Chris. Have they fixed those issues? And have you used the ismart phone app with the car? I'm seriously considering this car. Thanks for the video!

[@lancemepsted1145]

Thanks for the review. We have had a ZS EV for a week now. Just charged it at a Tesco and yep drove away with flap up. Bit that worries me is the charge management that you said about. Does that mean I have to keep a sharp eye on any rapid charge to stop it at 80%? Will it damage my battery if I leave it any longer?

[@chrisvanderstock]

In Australia, most rapid chargers have an 80% recent button so will stop when reached. Otherwise, yeah - you'll need to keep an eye on it.

[@hansdauncey3737]

Hi Chris, this is probably the best zs ev review I've seen. Well done!

[@chrisvanderstock]

Wow, thanks!

[@FutureSystem738]

Good review Chris, well done. 👍 Software could make so many things better. But there are plenty of cars where the software sucks! (And yes you’re correct, nearly two years in and we absolutely ADORE our Tesla Model 3.)

[@peterdiy]

What annoys me most about the HVAC is that it defaults to circulating the air whenever you turn it off. This time of year I don't need AC, but the car really likes to fog up with air set to circulate. In other news: your left rear tyre needs a bit more air.

[@chrisvanderstock]

LOL! Yeah I didn't notice that until I got that B-roll shot! Thanks

[@t8polestarcyan22]

I agree to almost everything you say about this car. However I do notice differences between Normal, Eco and Sport modes. Eco have the longest throttle delay when the Sport have instant throttle responce. Personally I wish our ZS EV to have climate control so I can simply set and forget, minimsing fiddling with A/C controls. New, face lifted model have however addressed some issues so I intend to replace ours somewhere soon.

[@Oarsomenesss]

Keen to see how the 25k Model 2 will do in the Aus ev landscape! How much do you reckon it'll be here?

[@Nobody_Famous]

Estimated at $35k but have you got years to wait?

[@chrisvanderstock]

I'm with @Nobody Famous (time line - as we wait typically 2 to 3 years after USA); and price - my guess $45K as its Tesla - which I'd pay!

[@FalkinerTim]

I purchased my MG in June and I do not need to turn the temperature control as much as you were showing so it looks like they have addressed that.

[@pohu9266]

Great drone shots, beautiful scenery.

[@JohnDoe-bd5sz]

The absolute dealbreaker for me is the HVAC. Honestly, they mount a fancy, expensive, electric sunroof with electric window shade, but only put a manual aircon in. Had it had Climate control, i'd probably buy it, because all of the other stuff i could live with. Worst part about the infotainment being slow is that they could probably have fixed that, by choosing a more beefy processor for the unit. Honestly.....10 USD more, and they could probably have had it work just great. From what i read online, the facelifted version for 2022, does have a larger screen infotainment system, with a more powerful processor.....But it will still have manual unregulated aircon, which seems like a dumb decision ...

[@waiwirir]

Kia Ora Chris. Thank you for the info... gives me a few more thing to consider for a second EV next to my leaf, which MG is on my list.

[@Nobody_Famous]

Hold out until you have BYD as an option

[@waiwirir]

@@Nobody_Famous BYD is on my list as well, particularly the E6 people mover; have two grandchildren its not just them, its the stuff that comes with them, lol....

[@davidpearn5925]

Make the air direction arrows much more legible PLEASE !

[@pangit9999]

You shouldn't charge it every day if you're only driving 20-30km per day. Batteries don't like being at 100% all the time, keep it below 80% unless you're going on a long trip

[@84dezh]

Sucks they made the battery button useless with the comfort 2 update Before that only way to see range left was with that button

[@guilders69]

Hi Chris I just picked up my ZS EV yesterday so I’m a newb to all this but why is it not good to charge to 100%? I have been watching videos of ZS EV’s & some have said it is good to fully charge for a “equalising” charge

[@mcdon2401]

Owners manual suggests a full charge and balance once a month, although if you do a lot of rapid charging, maybe best to balance a little more often.

[@richardh6756]

Is yours starting to rust under the floor some in uk and Australia have started to great review as always.

[@chrisvanderstock]

Not yet! But I'm keeping an eye on it.

[@fangitjoe]

I'd be you putting the charger on a smart outlet that you could set a timer on or at least control from anywhere on your phone.

[@chrisvanderstock]

I had a 15amp socket / fuse installed, and smart timers are limited to 10amps, so I don't want to fry it! My long term plan is to install a Zappi charger (overkill for our needs, but this is our first EV). That will resolve this cars charging issues.

[@rickyjulian496]

Clutch burnout? New turbo? Head gasket kaboom? Oh, that timing belt wants replacing...

[@vt68041]

i am getting for half the price you said .....so worth it

[@WTFaq]

We need to get our hands on India’s head unit or Thailand.

[@chrisvanderstock]

Trying! Got any leads? MG Australia isn't supporting it.

[@WTFaq]

Anyone know anyone in India or Thailand that can help.

[@calmpassenger]

Thanks for sharing...

[@steeltribe3967]

It's more than a stretch for a Tesla it's an extra half a car. They have their own issues like no speedo you can read whilst looking at the road and panel gaps that make any car lover cringe. Also, the HVAC controls in the giant iPad are impossible to use whilst driving, if you want to pay attention to the road that is. Maybe a better stretch would be something a little more user friendly.

[@wayne8113]

Thanks Chris

[@aussietesla2154]

Looks great!

[@jpsabbey]

I would prefer softer suspension.

[@basincut100]

Chris, you seriously need to get the software update mate. My current 2021 model HVAC is fine - one tiny turn of the knob equals one more (or less) bar of temperature. Same with the fan knob.

[@chrisvanderstock]

I'll ask MG when I go in for a replacement fob (long story!).

[@FalkinerTim]

@@chrisvanderstock With the software update, the way I work the temperature knob is I set it to the mid setting and just go one click at a time up or down until it is at the right temperature and then I just keep it at the right temperature by clicking one click up or down. If that makes any sense.

[@Alrukitaf]

It’s terrible how the tactics to get customers to fork out more dough. Cheapest should not mean crappy. In any case, it’s costing about twice what ice cars cost. And despite the lower running and maintenance costs, you’ll never make up the difference. Well, maybe in forty years, but of course you’ll need another battery every ten years or so. And that’s about half the price of the car.

[@FalkinerTim]

Love the car but I think the computer programmer who did the temperature control etc. had never driven a car. Ergonomically it is rubbish because you should be looking at the road and making the adjustments by feel. There are two speedos, one analogue and one digital plus some fancy speed control software but it is out of line-of-sight.

[@Peter-vn8ue]

I'm glad I decided against this vehicle and will buy a full specification BYD EA1/Dolphin when they go on sale. It has climate control air conditioning. No heated seats I don't think but that's something I can live without.

[@Nobody_Famous]

Different sized vehicles though so hard to compare.

[@Peter-vn8ue]

@@Nobody_Famous be interesting to see the interior dimensions of the BYD EA1.The MG ZS EV is an converted Ice vehicle to an EV so a lot of wasted space where the BYD EA1/Dolphin is built on a dedicated EV platform with better tech and will be cheaper by 7 to 8 grand by the time the on road costs are added for the higher spec model which for me should come in at just under $38,000 on the road compared to $44,990 for the MG ZS EV on the road before any government rebates. Regardless of the size differences The BYD EA1 will fit my needs and price range.

[@chrisvanderstock]

I've approached Nexport (BYD distributor) for access to their cars for review. When I can, I'll post a review.

[@Peter-vn8ue]

@@chrisvanderstock that will be great Chris. I think looking at the dimensions the BYD Yuan plus SUV will be a direct competitor to your vehicle when it goes on sale here. But if its going to be around $50,000 plus ORC is a bit out of my price range otherwise I would buy one over the BYD EA1.

[@vincentkelly4349]

Loved it

[@if3054]

You can't blame the car because you forget to close the charging grill. That's like blaming Adidas because you forgot to put your trainers on.

[@chrisvanderstock]

Fair, but an alert sound or indicator would be good.

[@ianmonaghan1310]

It’s a cheap ev with all the features this guy wants you end up paying the same as a Tesla.

[@davidwright2202]

Shit car!