MG ZS T – A zesty crossover worth your attention

To maintain its status as the best-selling subcompact crossover in the local market, MG Philippines ushered in the launch of the MG ZS T. The upmarket version of the ZS line features a turbocharged engine and a facelifted design, but its noteworthy status doesn’t end with those two.

The MG ZS T now stands as the new range-topper in the ZS range, sold side-by-side with non-turbo ZS models. The ZS T includes a sharply redesigned front fascia, a new Obsidian Matrix grille, and a snake light design on the LED projector headlights. 

The side retains the ZS’s sporty profile, with the back featuring subtle yet effective changes such as different LED taillight graphics and fewer chrome accents. I love the whole look; the changes are admirable and make the crossover more contemporary in the sea of crossovers in the market.

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Inside, the changes are more apparent with soft-touch materials, leather seats, and a leather flat-bottom steering wheel. The dashboard features clean execution of buttons, knobs, and other controls with several cubbyholes and a huge storage area near the gear lever for a smartphone.

The rear cabin doesn’t have a foldable center armrest, but occupants have A/C vents and charging ports. The cabin is a comfortable place to be in, with enough space for five average-sized people. I love how NVH was insulated in the car; I almost forgot that I was driving a car with three cylinders and not the more commonplace four.

The design changes also come with tech and safety feature updates, including a 10-inch infotainment with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, electronic seat adjustment for the driver, electronic climate control, auto-brake hold, and two USB ports located near the spot where smartphones are placed. Cruise control is also available and is activated through a steering wheel-mounted stem, which is a great feature to have especially at this price point.

The MG ZS T is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-three gasoline engine co-developed by SAIC and General Motors. It produces 161hp and 230Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a new 6-speed automatic gearbox. They are more than enough for everyday use, and there’s satisfyingly strong acceleration once the turbochargers come in.

This holds true during real-world testing. Torque was readily available when you need it; there’s an exhilarating pull once the turbochargers come in. The ZST’s turbo lag is negligible and very manageable. The six-speed automatic works great, with no sluggishness at all. Brakes were also predictable, plus the light steering and slightly firm suspension made for an agile machine with minimal body roll on corners.

The 2022 MG ZS T recorded quite good numbers in terms of fuel efficiency, especially within the confines of the city. In my test within light to moderate traffic flow, the small crossover returned 9.8 km/L. On the highway, though, cruising at 90 km/h registered 14 km/L for the MG ZS T. Both tests were done with minimal passenger and cargo.

The changes to the MG ZS T aren’t revolutionary, but they give the crossover its own identity and refreshing look. The handsome styling, new features, turbocharged engine, and 6-speed tranny are significant improvements that could entice potential buyers. 

With the growing competition in the subcompact crossover segment, manufacturers need to innovate and provide value to stay ahead. The MG ZS T seems to have done just that, with an eminently reasonable price of P1,198,888.