MG ZS 2018 Review and Road Test

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

I was born in the uk and I’m planning to move back when I’m 18 because I’m in South Africa now. But I’m looking for a cheap, good looking, practical SUV, and I love the ZS. I also like the MG brand as a whole whether it’s Chinese or not. It looks great, drives great and it’s priced great. I plan on buying a ZS as soon as my feet land on British soil

[@PlanetautoUK]

Awesome, give us a shout when you get it, we’ll grab an MG and come see it - amazing user name 😎

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

@@PlanetautoUK thanks ☺️

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

@@PlanetautoUK maybe we can make a video together about how MG has evolved

[@PlanetautoUK]

Keep putting out content and growing your channel and we’ll take a look when you land here 😀

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

@@PlanetautoUK Great stuff. Hope to see you guys in 3-4 years time PlanetautoUK 😁

[@themgkid3523]

Fantastic Review! Im glad u both like the ZS. Keep up the good reviews!

[@PlanetautoUK]

Thank you, great car and we can't wait to see the new MG3 when it's revealed.

[@mark-1rc502]

Not the ZS I remember , 2.5 litre 180 bhp, 0-60 7.3 seconds . White dials , handled like it was on rails . Nice steering feedback . It was a proper little racer , shit for toys n gadgets but that just meant you concentrated on the drive and boy did it do that well

[@PlanetautoUK]

That's the argument, maybe it should have had another name, well it did at the beginning. We're fond of the old TF the 50's model.

[@keshavakumar5208]

How much price in indain market

[@t8polestarcyan22]

That brings down to a ZS EV. The instant torque of the electric motor isn't too far behind 0 - 100 in 8.4 sec. Because of the electric motor it can be a lot faster than the ZS 180 in many real life situations. Because of the battery being mounted below the floor, handling isn't so bad but off course it can't (shouldn't be able to) match the ZS 180 because the older gen have independent multi-link rear suspension.

[@PlanetautoUK]

It’s impressive power delivery, we’d have to agree T8

[@tee3114]

great car and for the price amazing just visited the new mg showroom in Marylebone (london) and had a good experience with the team there. would defiantly recommend especially with the current deals they have at the moment, its almost driving like driving away for free

[@PlanetautoUK]

We have found it to be the same, Tee. SAIC seem to have a long term plan, and it's taking them places.

[@AndyElvis11]

Guys, this is a great review - keep up the great work. One caveat though - nothing about the content or you guys - it just seems strange you've decided to add black bars for a cinematic look - which is fine, but for a video where the goal is to show and tell people details of the car, hiding it behind black bars is a little frustrating and sometimes disorientating. Maybe try to use the black bars only through an overlook, or in the small detailing montage of the car. For stuff like this, the usual screen ratio of 16:9 makes more sense, at least in my opinion. You may completely disagree, which again is fine - just a bit of constructive criticism. Other than that, top job - really enjoyed watching it. Caught wind of the ZS the other day and really interested in seeing what it's about!

[@PlanetautoUK]

Andy_Elvis11 thank you, a very valid point, and something we hadn’t considered or indeed recognised, this is the type of feedback we need to perfect our content. I’ve just looked at the air vent clip and seen it crops a chunk off. Sometimes a crop is required in our shots due to not being spotted when filming e.g. something in shot like the boom fur - i’l chat to the rest of team, thank you Ben

[@AndyElvis11]

No problem buddy, hope it helps you out in further videos! Keep up the good work!

[@Astrolavista]

Looks great for the money, would you get 3 car seats in this? I have 4 year old twins and a 7 year old.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Not through isofix, there are 2 one on each outer seat.

[@Astrolavista]

Thanks, my seats are currently fixed using the seat belts. Just wondering about the width, although my 7 year old can't be far off only needing a booster. I need to look into the height/weight limit for that. Thanks for the reply.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Your welcome, there is likely a PDF spec sheet on MG’s site, thank you

[@ahmedsamy20008]

Nice review but do you prefer it or Renault duster

[@PlanetautoUK]

Now that’s a question, we’ll have a think, both are very good for the money

[@aliaziz7217]

Thank you so much cor the review, I want to know about the weak points for that car? Is there is any noise inside the car with the high speed?

[@PlanetautoUK]

ali abdelaziz there is some road noise yes, dependant on road surface - weak points some of the materials could be softer, a turbo would have made it quicker, watch out for our review next week of the automatic version of the ZS.

[@aliaziz7217]

Planet Auto thank you for your reply I’ll take your points un my consideration

[@PlanetautoUK]

ali abdelaziz watch out for nexts review on the Auto ZS

[@aliaziz7217]

Sorry bro, I am asking if you make a comparison between GS, ZS and the RX5

[@PlanetautoUK]

ali abdelaziz it’s best to drive them all, the GS has a turbo and it’s quite a bit bigger, a great SUV

[@jenbar1970]

I love my MG Zs exclusive. I have it in black. But it doesn’t have an outside temperature reading and the Satnav is very basic . But it is a very good car for the price.

[@PlanetautoUK]

jenbar turner black, very smart and yes great value.

[@erickr.7041]

any problems? its a chinese car and im kind afraid to buy it because of the quality. also im a young guy(24) and im going to get a suv by the end of the year and i don't want to make a bad choice.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Erick R. Best bet is to test drive both the auto and the manual, see what you think and for peace of mind don’t forget the ZS comes with a 7 year warranty.

[@jenbar1970]

Erick R. No problems at all. Very happy with it.

[@jacobprice9446]

@@jenbar1970 should of saved you money and bought a proper mg not a re badged chinese shopping wagon

[@mattsbeamer]

To be honest this is a present surprise. It’s much better than previous Chinese Rovers. Do you remember the hate poor Quentin Wilson got when he said how good the older Chinese Rovers got, calling him a sell out. I think your review was fair and good. I’m interested in seeing how these survive :) A car I like that you don’t get in England is the LADA vesta. It’s very cheap to buy, I think they were 4500 new a few months back for the base ones. :)

[@PlanetautoUK]

mattsbeamer it’s very good, we used to have FSO Polinez, great value

[@mattsbeamer]

Planet Auto very cool. I was lucky enough to drive my friends zaz 968m the other day. I can’t wait to film that. Plus her boyfriends Chrysler Newport police car :D

[@AndrewKNI]

Great review guys. Nice looking car, even quite classy!

[@PlanetautoUK]

Andy K. UK thank you we’d have to agree, a great car for the money

[@sawseer5503]

I have a small question?please. Is there electric system to play rear mirror ? because the ZS 2019-20 import to my country there is no this system, just manual from out side.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Hello, apologies we are a bit lost with what your asking?

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

A great looking car, 7 year warranty is a great selling point for this car.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Yes, and the brand just keeps getting stronger

[@lcfc42]

Quick question....is the Bluetooth audio compatible for those that don't have apple phones? Can you stream over Bluetooth and control what is playing?

[@PlanetautoUK]

Matt Lakin yes, it does have Bluetooth compatibility, and Android Auto also.

[@lcfc42]

Thanks for the response. Didn't think it had Android auto? It's not mentioned anywhere?

[@PlanetautoUK]

Matt Lakin yes, apologies your correct we’ve just checked and it’s got Bluetooth connectivity but no Android Auto, and we’ve no idea why

[@EdgyNumber1]

Some bloody good engineers still working at Longbridge. They have a parent company that actually has some development money....

[@razerrazer8242]

What is the average fuel economy getting from the car

[@PlanetautoUK]

Around 33mpg

[@razerrazer8242]

@@PlanetautoUK 14 kmpl on highways or mixed city and highway driving

[@PlanetautoUK]

@@razerrazer8242 impressive

[@paulhic1]

You mentioned led headlights but they look like ordinary lights. Does it have Led headlights?

[@PlanetautoUK]

Halogen-projector headlights with LED daytime running lights.

[@hkhodayar6929]

بامید روزی باتعرفه معقول واردایران بشه مردم ایران هم لااقل ازخودروهای نسبتآمتوسط استفاده بکنندبا وضع کنونی ارز،ماهانمیتوانیم، وازخریدش،ناتوان

[@fahadpirzada9686]

Engine Room view??

[@PlanetautoUK]

Beg ya pardon? Engine shot or windscreen shot?

[@keithisaacs6092]

Nice review chaps you wont be appearing on the clothes show though.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Thank you, that’s one less appearance then, 😆 we don’t really have the time.

[@sunilayya8948]

I would pay a bit more and get a vitara 1.0 turbo. It has a better engine, chassis , euro ncap results, and above all bullet proof reliability. Chinese made cars have been wretched in reliability which is a bad prognosis for the cheap ZS.

[@PlanetautoUK]

This is the first new breed of SUV for MG, great value, not particularly economical but strong and reliable, NCAP you just need to look at the ev to see what the new models will have. Yes the Vitara is good, economical etc mind you it’s quite a bit more expensive too.

[@sunilayya8948]

@@PlanetautoUK i think its too early to predict the long term reliability of the zs. Toyotas and suzukis are known to easily go over 200,000 miles with standard maintenance. I dont have much faith in the GM designed 1.0 engine of the zs although its aisin auto should be ok. My friend has one and it gets horrible gas mileage in the city too.plus people may be wary of buying Chinese stuff in the future.

[@PlanetautoUK]

This is the thing, the test of time will tell, we have a C124 29 years old drives everyday with over 200k on the clock, the challenges with the China origins could impact yes, thank you. We do like the MG range the ev is fun could do with more range, and the HS is great fun to drive, we have two new Suzuki’s in the coming weeks, one being the Vitara.

[@sunilayya8948]

@@PlanetautoUK is it a new generation vitara or the current generation?

[@PlanetautoUK]

It’s the new hybrid

[@jamesisshin2845]

how about the reliability of the vehicle? the old MG's are horrible in terms of reliability

[@PlanetautoUK]

Good, 7 year warranty and MG keep selling them, that says something, thank you James

[@t8polestarcyan22]

Old MGs back in British Leyland, Austin Rover, Rover and MG Rover Group eras were terrible in terms of reliability. Not even BMW could help Rover. Technically British Leyland would've let MG or even make MG to use the parts, tools, best of everything that a big group could've used but no. It was British Leyland that have deteriorated Rover's reputation. That's why I'm worried and sceptical of Stellantis. SAIC on the other hand have taken practical steps to bring the MG brand back to shape. Our ZS EV is doing well so far. No wear and tear that I can notice. Door panels, mirrors, roof rails, air con vents, door handles... all of them are solidly built. What about ICE version of ZS? I don't think SAIC is that stupid. Otherwise such history will repeat and so far that's not happening.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Many people conveniently forget about these things, SAIC know how to make a decent EV and hybrid

[@vakarkhan]

I have MG750 from last 3 year but first time after AL Yousuf Motors become dealer i am reintegrate to have this MG , bcoz no service, no support and feedback . even ones in a month they will pick your call . worst service ever .. do not buy MG in UAE or let them improve there service .

[@authenticmax6350]

How many videos are you guys planning to make ? If its just a one off video then I won't bother subscribing..

[@PlanetautoUK]

Authentic Max of the ZS? Or generally? We have 21 car reviews with 2 going up this week as well as restoration, repair and show coverage, in total well over 80, lots to see including our RR Dawn review, filmed yesterday.

[@authenticmax6350]

Cool cool... can you guys be a little bit more enthusiastic ?! I think thats what lacking on the videos. Give it a go ! .. And I've subscribed. Hope your channel grows. Cheers.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Authentic Max thank you, lots of content coming including 3 Subaru’s.

[@cosmoray9750]

The MG is design in Birmingham and built in China so therefore it's Chinese. Does that mean Jaguar is Indian. Jaguar was bought by the Indian back in 2008 if I recalled correctly.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Cosmo Ray MG is owned by SAIC which is Chinese. What are your thoughts on the ZS?

[@jimmiklas6318]

All these new MG's are really cool.

[@playlistajimenez5567]

Jaguar is a Jaguar

[@mrsbaylocksvideoemporium9621]

Either your dad dyed his hair black or her had one hell of a shock in the more recent videos!

[@PlanetautoUK]

This truly is one of the utmost confusing comments ever, reasons being - her dyed and dad 🤔 *ben

[@mrsbaylocksvideoemporium9621]

@@PlanetautoUK The older fella - assuming he's the dad in this set up. And I went from watching one video where he was a silver fox to then seeing this jet black barnet!

[@PlanetautoUK]

Mrs Baylock's Video Emporium ah you mean me, Michael is not my son and yes my hairs had some hair raising travels 😃 thank you

[@akashsethi2736]

MG is now Chinese and its not a bad thing.. Really?

[@PlanetautoUK]

Not when it’s SAIC no, recognise the steering wheel we certainly do, and yes China is getting a bad rap currently, not when this was filmed though.

[@akashsethi2736]

@@PlanetautoUK Hey thanks for the reply. Point taken, albeit I would have loved if MG was still British. Love the ZS shape and style, not buying because its SAIC. Need to know where my money is going and I am definitely not giving it to CCP.

[@PlanetautoUK]

Akash Sethi you’re welcome, it makes sense to learn quite a bit about the manufacturer, MG are doing a great job, yes it’s not British, but MG love the Brit heritage and do quite a bit over here.

[@t8polestarcyan22]

A bad thing? Not really! Think about it ever since British Leyland, MG would've sourced the best parts, components or what so ever resources from the gigantic group. Unfortunately everything went downhill. Everyone and everything in the BL are to blame. Fast forward to BMW ownership of the Rover Group, neither the Germans nor the Poms could keep the Rover afloat. Phoenix was supposed to bring the MG Rover Group back to their feet but the MG Rover went to administration. Sure MG have gone Chinese doesn't sound right but admittedly SAIC have taken the right steps to get and keep MG walking. In terms of build quality, SAIC is doing a very good job for the MG. Absolutely nothing have fallen apart, gone loose, wobble or what so ever. Everything feel solidly built, not like a typical "El cheapo - Made in China" kind.

[@SpeedbirdAircrew]

Rubbish engine, shouldn’t have to rag it burning fuel crazy Hopefully the eZS will be a lot better

[@PlanetautoUK]

Try the Auto with the GM SAIC Dev engine. The eZS is sounding to be rather impressive.

[@t8polestarcyan22]

Well we've got a ZS EV (eZS) and it's the only ZS that have balls.

[@jasondavies7295]

Nice car with a pathetic engine my normal drivers 230 horsepower so maybe I'm hoping for too much

[@PlanetautoUK]

Jason Davies that’s it, it has enough power for the market it appeals too, it’s enough to keep it happily motoring, would love the engine from the GS.

[@t8polestarcyan22]

Then you might as well go for a ZS EV. It may have 140 hp but the instant torque is more than enough for general commutes. Not only that, the electric motor can even startle a Subaru WRX STI, Mitsi Evo Xs as well as a Tesla! A Subbie WRX was trying to overtake my ZS EV but it just couldn't. I was racing an old Honda Integra and it couldn't even keep up!

[@buckegit]

STOP WAVING YOUR HANDS ABOUT... I had to stop watching.

[@PlanetautoUK]

All presenters move their hands, take Clarkson for example, mind you this is an earlier videos and the guys have refined their styles, saying that it’s still had some good feedback and views

[@Haveagrated]

Come on Buck :) Just close your eyes and listen. At least we got a good look before we can get eZS on roads. Thanks for the feedback on ride quality. I drove Q3 S line with leather on a test drive and it felt like sliding down my bum on wooden stairs. I buy SUV to get away from back problems not to get more!

[@PlanetautoUK]

@@Haveagrated Great advice, Buck doesn't realise the guys used to be magicians bit like GOBE of Arrested Dev, yet not as good by a long shot. Your welcome, the ZS is great for the money, it really is, as for the ZS EV another league especially designed for NCAP 4. We've driven q2 quattro and that had the best of both for ride, Ben being ben opted for the Sport pretty much constantly.

[@derekporter7651]

Both of you please stop waving your hands around when you talk. It is so annoying!

[@PlanetautoUK]

That aside, did you find the info you were looking for?

[@UNKN8WN1973]

Hahaha nervous hand waving

[@PlanetautoUK]

sam Muslu no nervousness with the guys here, just look at Clarkson, gestures and hand movement work. Check out one the latest videos to see how the guys have evolved, mind you this video is our highest performing 60k in 10 months 😃

[@gerrybird5525]

@@PlanetautoUK No arrogance there then

[@avrohalt9133]

horrible plastic junk

[@PlanetautoUK]

It’s really not

[@t8polestarcyan22]

Then you need to go back to British Leyland era, Rover Group or even a MG Rover Group era. Their plastics are even worse! Not to mention lots of breakdown and body rusts from BL era.