The game-changing ZST—MG turbocharges the subcompact crossover

Whether you call it an SUV or a crossover, it’s now the vehicle everyone wants.

It’s the subcompact crossover SUV—a genre filled with over-achievers bristling with features, style, and versatility. Almost all models in this segment have a normally aspirated 1.5-liter motor developing approximately 115-120 horsepower, which is plenty adequate for the home-office drive and even the occasional road trips.

They’re good for everyday driving, but if you want more kick with your acceleration—a delightful boon when you want to make an effortless overtake on that long road trip—you’re going to need a turbo. 

MG is happy to oblige with that horsepower (and torque) fix. And now the subcompact crossover SUV segment has a new model that adds much more excitement and performance to this highly competitive segment. 

It’s called the ZST. Just a wee bit longer (10mm) than the brand’s bestselling ZS crossover but with an identical wheelbase, the ZST packs a whole lot more firepower under the hood—160 thoroughbred horses and 230 Newton-meters of torque—all from a completely new 1.3-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. This powerplant is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode for more spirited driving.

It’s enough to transform the humble ZS from a decent daily driver to a pocket rocket that can run with (or even outrun) many supposedly faster or sleeker cars. 

Retailing at a very tempting Php 1,198,888, the ZST sits at the top of the ZS lineup, but it looks different enough that it could actually merit its own model name. For one thing, the ZST sports MG’s latest design language. It starts out with a new, Obsidian Matrix grille, full-LED projector headlights, and a more aggressive front bumper/air dam/foglight design. These are complemented by 17-inch, two-tone “Tomahawk” alloy wheels (with sexy red brake calipers) wrapped by wide, low-profile tires. Gloss black door trim and sharp, distinctive bodylines convey speed and power.

Inside the ZST is a continuation of the sporty, upscale theme of the exterior. Soft-touch surfaces on the steering wheel, dashboard, center console, door panels, and other high-contact areas add a luxurious touch. More sportiness comes from the red stitching on the seats and trim, while red embroidered MG monograms on the driver and front passenger headrests continue the sports car theme. Improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) countermeasures ensure that cabin noise is kept to a minimum, and can further be appreciated alongside the ZST’s dynamic six-speaker system and 10.1-inch non-reflective touchscreen HD infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. You can also monitor the ZST’s running stats with the “Goggles” virtual instrument cluster. Additional nifty interior features include rear air conditioner vents for rear passengers, multiple storage compartments, and a dedicated USB port behind the rear-view mirror for neater dashcam installations.

Over and above the numerous new or upgraded exterior and interior features, the ZST adds a host of modern driver assist systems at par with cars in higher-priced segments. For starters, front, side, and curtain airbags are standard equipment. Likewise, electronic safeguards such as Rear Cross-Traffic Assist, Lane Change Assist, and cornering lamps (built into the fog lamps,) are new features. The ZST is also equipped with Hill Hold Control, Cornering Brake Control, Traction Control, and Vehicle Dynamic Control. The ZST is also outfitted with a Blind Spot Information System paired with the car’s intelligent 360-degree vehicle view, which gives you a bird’s eye view of the car during slow-moving traffic or when slowly moving into tight parking spaces.

The ZST’s high value proposition is further supplemented by MG’s impressive suite of premium aftersales packages and services. These include a 5-year/100,000km warranty and free periodic maintenance service (PMS) for the first 10,000 kilometers or 6 months (whichever comes first). MG owners can download the My MG mobile app, which allows you to easily schedule vehicle service appointments via smartphone. You can also use the app to book a visit from a Mobile Garage service caravan that provides MG owners with vehicle home service for major technical issues. The MG HERO Services, on the other hand, provides 24/7 roadside support through the MG Philippines hotline (+632 8459 4787.)

With its eye-catching styling, exhilarating performance, numerous upgrades, and host of driver and safety assists usually found in more premium segments, the MG ZST is primed to boost your overall driving experience.