2022 MG ZST | The Cool ZS | Car Review

The first time we reached out to MG Philippines to do car reviews, we of course immediately asked to try the very popular ZS subcompact crossover. This is not only a best-seller for the brand, but was also for its entire segment in the Philippines. To be frank though, I was particularly left unimpressed by the ZS with its just average driving dynamics and NVH insulation.

Despite that, it was still a recipe for success with its sub 1-million peso price tag. Now though, MG Philippines wants to make things better with the introduction of a better ZS, known as the ZST. What does “T” stand for? Turbo. 

We had it with us for a couple of days so we’ll find out if MG has improved the ZS with the ZST, where it had to improve, and whether it is a good option with lots of competitive choices from other Chinese automakers.

Design Impressions

The exterior always gives a lasting first impression and the MG ZST does very well in the exterior design department. Gone is the Mazda-like front fascia, replaced by a look that is unique to this model. It’s more striking yet also more subdued which will allow it to age better. The side on the other hand remains pretty much the same but with new 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels which look really good. Also, a Trophy badge on the C-pillar adds a touch of class.

The rear also remains similar with the regular ZS but with a more stylish and distinctive set of LED taillights. Overall, MG has done well with the changes made for the ZST. Enough to let it stand-out versus its non-turbo sibling, while still keeping it low-key enough compared to say a Geely Coolray.

Meanwhile inside, the ZST also gets an improved interior over the ZS. Most noticeable are the new screens for infotainment and the driver’s instrument cluster (both will be discussed in the technology section of this review), as well as the splashes of red around the cabin. Materials are mostly soft-touch plastics, including one with a faux carbon fiber pattern. 

The seats on the other hand are wrapped in leather with a red MG logo stitched onto the headrests and the same logo embossed into the gear shifter. Going back to red accents, I really like how they were done on the seats, and center console and stack. I would probably prefer the door armrests and surrounding plastic around the aircon vents to be in black though.

Practicality

When it comes to practicality, the MG ZST is one of the better options. First, space, specifically for 2nd row passengers. Legroom is pretty good for someone like me who stands at 5’7”. Headroom is also pretty good thanks to the large panoramic sunroof. In terms of width, space is good for three average sized adults for shorter drives. 

As for other storage solutions for smaller items, there are enough dotted around the cabin. There’s definitely a place to put your smartphone, your wallet, coins maybe, and other loose items. Bottle holders on each door are also decently sized and there are two cupholders in the front center console.

On the other hand, cargo storage space is on par with the competition with between 300 to 400 liters of space behind the 2nd row. For reference, that would be around 4 pieces of small-sized luggage. If ever you need more space, it’s always easy to fold the 2nd row down though they don’t go completely flat.

Technology and Safety

Improvements have been given to the ZST when it comes to in-car technology. First is the infotainment system which has been upgraded to a larger 10.1-inch floating touchscreen. This still uses the same interface as on other MG models and is quite easy to use. It also responds very well as long as it does not freeze, which happened twice during my time with the vehicle. This required me to stop and switch the car off and back on.

Next is the new digital instrument cluster, officially named Goggles Virtual Instrument Cluster by the brand. This does look very good though I personally am not a fan of the digital tachometer which is also used in many other Chinese crossover models today. 

In terms of safety, the MG ZST gets blindspot monitoring and a 360-degree around-view monitor which both work very well. I really appreciate how bright the blindspot monitoring lights on the side mirrors are, making them easier to see when driving on hot sunny days.

Engine

Under the hood of the MG ZST is the biggest difference from the regular ZS. It is powered by a 1.3-liter Inline 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 163 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels.

Now this still is not as much as you would get with a Geely Coolray, but it is enough when put against other competition. It’s also good to note that this is the exact powertrain under the hood of the entry-level Maxus G50 Comfort 7-seater MPV.

Driving and Comfort

Like I mentioned earlier, driving the regular MG ZS left a lot to be desired. It was slow, the ride was harsh, NVH insulation was not so good either. This is where the MG ZST shines as it feels as if it is a totally different model. On my first drive, I immediately felt how much more power the ZST had on tap. Never did I find the need for more power and I was sure that it would not have any problems pulling its more than 1,300 kg weight around. It’s no MG 6 but it’s all good here. Also, NVH insulation has improved a lot with engine refinement being the most surprising. Not only does it sound good, but also is surprisingly very smooth. 

In terms of fuel economy, we were able to achieve an average of 11 km/l during our 4-day test period. This involved driving around Metro Manila, experiencing light to heavy traffic conditions, driving to the province of Bataan with also light to heavy traffic conditions, and back to Manila. 

Conclusion

The 2022 MG ZST is priced at Php 1,158,888 which is actually very competitive even compared to the regular ZS which is priced at Php 998,888. For just an additional Php 168,000 you get so much more in terms of technology, safety, design, and much more when it comes to performance, pretty much everything that was missing from its sibling.

Is it the best choice in the segment? Well to be honest, no. But it does present itself as a compelling choice in a sea of competitive subcompact crossovers from the Middle Kingdom. 

Summary

• Make: MG
• Model: ZST
• Engine: 1.3L Inline 3-Cylinder Turbo
• Maximum Power and Torque: 163 hp @ 5,600 RPM, 230 Nm of Torque @ 4,400 RPM
• Transmission: 6-speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive
• Estimated Fuel Economy: 11 km/l Mixed 
• SRP: Php 1,158,888