MG ZS Essence Turbo: The automotive landscape has witnessed a remarkable transformation, and nowhere is this more evident than in the compact SUV segment. Among the standout performers making waves in 2025 is the MG ZS Essence Turbo, priced at $30,990 plus on-road costs, a vehicle that perfectly encapsulates the phrase “small package, big impact.”
Gone are the days when the MG ZS was merely a budget-conscious option that compromised on quality. The new generation model transcends cheap and nasty into a class above, with significant improvements in almost all areas making it completely unrecognisable from its predecessor.
The Heart of the Beast: Turbocharged Performance
Engine Specifications That Deliver
The star of the show under the hood is a boosted 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 125kW of power and 275Nm of torque. This represents a significant leap forward in the ZS lineup, offering drivers a genuinely rewarding experience behind the wheel.
What makes this powertrain particularly impressive is the value proposition it presents. For just $2000 more than the entry-level variant, buyers get a 54 per cent boost in power and 96 per cent increase in torque – a performance upgrade that’s virtually unmatched in the competitive landscape.
Real-World Performance
With less than 1400kg to haul around, the Turbo is far more sprightly than its relatively small performance figures might promise, achieving approximately 8.0 seconds for the zero-to-100km/h sprint. This acceleration figure places it comfortably in the competitive arena against established rivals.
The turbocharged engine transforms the driving experience significantly. Having more torque makes it feel significantly more powerful than the non-turbo models, which in turn means a less stressful driving experience in many different situations. Whether navigating city traffic or merging onto highways, the additional grunt provides confidence that was previously lacking in the naturally aspirated variants.
Design Evolution: Modern Sophistication Meets Practicality
Exterior Appeal
The 2025 MG ZS Essence Turbo showcases a complete design overhaul that signals the brand’s maturation. The design is especially punchy when finished in stunning Brighton Blue Metallic, earning positive comments from onlookers. The transformation is so complete that it now bears visual similarity to the larger MG HS, creating a cohesive family appearance.
Standing on 18-inch alloy wheels, the Essence Turbo commands presence on the road while maintaining the practical dimensions that make it ideal for urban environments. The overall dimensions measure 4430mm in length, 1635mm in height, and 1818mm in width, striking an optimal balance between road presence and manoeuvrability.
Interior Refinement
Step inside, and the improvements become immediately apparent. The quality of the interior is genuinely impressive for the price, with the design being aesthetically pleasing and the large central display adding a modern touch. The Essence Turbo features premium touches including leatherette surfaces and thoughtful ergonomics.
At the centre of the cabin, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen provides essential information at a glance, with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity as standard. The digital cockpit creates an environment that feels premium and contemporary, far removed from the budget origins of previous generations.
Technology and Connectivity: Smart Features for Modern Life
Advanced Infotainment System
The technology package in the MG ZS Essence Turbo reflects the brand’s commitment to delivering modern conveniences. The vehicle comes packed with MG iSMART technology, allowing drivers to switch on air conditioning before stepping inside or check vehicle status directly from their smartphone.
Navigation duties are handled by built-in satellite navigation, eliminating the need to rely solely on smartphone connectivity. Having built-in SatNav is a nice feature and a move away from some brands that are forcing buyers to use their smartphone instead.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety credentials receive significant attention in the new generation model. The ZS achieved 75 per cent for adult occupant protection, 84 per cent for child occupant protection, 73 per cent for vulnerable road user protection, and 79 per cent for safety assist, earning a 4-star ANCAP safety rating.
The comprehensive safety suite includes a 360-degree HD camera system, providing drivers with exceptional visibility when manoeuvring in tight spaces. The surround-view camera system comes as standard, and nervous parkers will appreciate this feature.
Practical Considerations: Space and Efficiency
Cargo Capacity and Comfort
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the ZS Essence Turbo maximises interior space efficiently. Boot capacity ranges from 443 to 1457 litres, providing excellent versatility for everything from weekly shopping to extended road trips.
Those in the rear have access to a nice amount of leg, shoulder and headroom – even with the full-length panoramic sunroof. The practical considerations extend to multiple storage solutions throughout the cabin, demonstrating thoughtful design for real-world usage.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
Official fuel consumption is rated at 6.9L/100km, though real-world testing suggests figures closer to 8.0L/100km under mixed driving conditions. The turbocharged engine requires premium 95 RON fuel, which represents a consideration when calculating total running costs compared to the naturally aspirated variants that run on regular unleaded.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Competitive Landscape
The MG ZS Essence Turbo could very well be the sweet spot in the new-gen ZS range, building on huge improvements in overall sophistication with a more agreeable sticker price than higher-grade hybrids and a punchier powertrain than entry-level variants.
In the competitive small SUV segment, the pricing strategy positions the Essence Turbo as a compelling alternative to established players. It’s not quite as complete as something like the Kia Seltos, but if you’re thinking of a Mitsubishi ASX over the new ZS turbo, then you’re absolutely out of your mind.
Warranty and Service Support
MG’s confidence in the product is reflected in the 10-year, 250,000km warranty that accompanies every ZS. This industry-leading coverage provides peace of mind that extends well beyond typical manufacturer warranties, with the added benefit that servicing isn’t restricted to MG dealerships exclusively.
Driving Dynamics: Performance Meets Comfort
On-Road Behaviour
The ZS Essence Turbo delivers a comfortable and composed ride, predictable and nicely weighted steering, and it’s relatively quiet inside the cabin at speed, even on coarser road surfaces. The suspension tuning strikes an appropriate balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for both daily commuting and longer journeys.
The CVT transmission, while not as engaging as a traditional automatic, provides smooth power delivery in most situations. The CVT has stepped ‘ratios’ to make it feel like it’s behaving like a traditional auto gearbox, though in traffic it doesn’t quite have the urge you might want.
Technical Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder Turbo Petrol |
| Power | 125kW |
| Torque | 275Nm |
| Transmission | CVT (8-speed stepped) |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9L/100km (official) |
| Fuel Type | Premium Unleaded (95 RON) |
| Boot Capacity | 443-1457L |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Safety Rating | 4-star ANCAP |
| Warranty | 10 years/250,000km |
| Price | $30,990 (plus on-road costs) |
A Compelling Package
The MG ZS Essence Turbo represents a significant evolution for the brand, delivering a package that genuinely competes on merit rather than price alone. The step up in price to get from Essence non-turbo to the model tested here seems simple, with no other SUVs on the market offering a 54 per cent boost in power and 96 per cent increase in torque for just $2000.
For buyers seeking a well-equipped, modern small SUV that doesn’t compromise on features or refinement, the Essence Turbo presents a compelling proposition. While it may not achieve the ultimate refinement of premium European rivals, it delivers exceptional value in a package that feels genuinely premium.
The transformation from budget option to genuine contender is complete, positioning the MG ZS Essence Turbo as a smart choice for pragmatic buyers who refuse to compromise on quality, features, or driving enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the main difference between the Essence Turbo and regular Essence models? A: The Turbo variant features a turbocharged 1.5L engine producing 125kW/275Nm compared to the naturally aspirated 81kW/140Nm engine in the regular Essence, offering 54% more power and 96% more torque for approximately $2000 additional cost.
Q: Does the MG ZS Essence Turbo offer all-wheel drive? A: No, all variants in the MG ZS range are front-wheel drive only. No AWD option is available across the entire lineup.
Q: What fuel does the Turbo engine require? A: The turbocharged engine requires premium unleaded fuel (95 RON minimum), unlike the naturally aspirated variants that can run on regular 91 RON unleaded.
Q: How reliable is the 10-year warranty claim? A: MG offers a genuine 10-year/250,000km warranty for private use vehicles, with the flexibility that servicing doesn’t have to be completed exclusively at MG dealerships, unlike some competitors’ decade-long warranties.
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