MG ZS review

The ZS’s low pricing and seven-year, 80,000-mile standard warranty both help the car stand out. Its list price comfortably undercuts that of most rivals, making it a cheaper cash buy, although the Duster is cheaper still.

Monthly PCP costs are usually competitive with the Duster, too, although fuel economy isn't. In addition, resale values are not expected to be as strong as those of the competition, including the Duster.

The ZS is reasonably well-equipped, though. Along with the aformentioned infotainment touchscreen, entry-level Explore models have cruise control and electric front windows, to which Excite trim adds 17in alloy wheels and air conditioning. Range-topping Exclusive trim adds manmade leather upholstery.

Less impressive is the ZS’s safety rating. It scored just three stars out of five in Euro NCAP testing and isn't available with automatic emergency braking, even as an option. The ZS performed particularly poorly for chest protection for adults sitting in the back.

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