Electrifying Value: The 2025 MG ZS EV – A Game-Changer in Affordable Electric SUVs

In the electric vehicle (EV) world of 2025, sustainability is fighting a corner against skyrocketing demand for EVs and MG’s current ZS EV still stands as an accessible option. Available worldwide since 2019; updated for the latest model year, This baby electric SUV is from British brand MG Motor, a subsidiary of China’s SAIC Motor, and has sold over half a million units globally while sales in India were up 34 percent on-year to 6,728 in September alone.

Priced aggressively against rivals like the Tata Nexon EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, the ZS EV blends practical range, family-friendly space, and tech-loaded interiors at a fraction of the premium EV cost.

With JSW MG Motor India targeting 65% of sales to be EVs by the end of this year, this facelifted model—replete with ADAS features and a sharper, more interconnected silhouette—is a smart pick for city commuters and novice electric car buyers. This review lifts the hood on its specs, performance and why it’s at the vanguard of 2025.

Powertrain and Performance: Smooth, Efficient, and Punchy

Under the skin, underpinning the 2025 MG ZS EV is the familiar single-motor front-wheel-drive powertrain capable of putting out 176 horsepower and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque from a liquid-cooled 50.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The acceleration at 0-100 km/h and it manages in 8.5 seconds allows easy merging while on highway, albeit without the sport car’s dramatic visuals. It even packs a top speed of 140 km/h, which is enough for most real-life situations.

The star is its range: Claimed at 461 km (ARAI cycle), real-world tests yield around 339 km in mixed conditions, factoring in city traffic and AC use. Charging is straightforward—0-100% in 8.5 hours via a 7.4 kW AC wallbox, or 50 minutes for 0-80% on a 50 kW DC fast charger. No front frunk here (batteries take that space), but regenerative braking modes help extend efficiency on long drives.

This setup edges out the Tata Nexon EV’s 312-465 km range in base trims while matching the Mahindra XUV400’s peppy feel, though it trails the Hyundai Kona EV’s 484 km WLTP mark.

Design and Dimensions: Bigger, Bolder, and More Refined

The 2025 facelift amps up the ZS EV’s presence with a wider grille, slimmer LED headlights, and wraparound taillamps, giving it a more aggressive stance than its predecessor. At 4,323 mm long, 1,809 mm wide, and 1,649 mm tall (with 177 mm ground clearance), it’s larger than most compact rivals, offering Qashqai-like space in a Puma-sized footprint. The 2,585 mm wheelbase ensures rear legroom for three adults, while the 488-liter boot expands to 1,166 liters with seats folded—beating the Kia e-Niro (451 liters) but shy of the Skoda Enyaq (585 liters).

Available in seven colors like Candy White and Starburst Black, it rolls on 17-inch alloys. Inside, the cabin surprises with soft-touch dashboard materials and faux-leather options in higher trims. The updated 10.1-inch touchscreen runs MG iSMART with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the Exclusive Pro adds a panoramic sunroof and heated seats. It’s not as flashy as the BYD Atto 3’s rotating display, but the 7-inch digital cluster and ambient lighting keep it modern.

Features and Safety: Loaded for the Price

MG packs the ZS EV with premium touches rarely seen at this level. Standard across variants: Six airbags, 360-degree camera, ESP, hill-hold assist, and a full ADAS suite in the new Exclusive Pro trim—including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking. Wireless charging, keyless entry, and auto climate control round out the comforts.

Higher trims elevate with leatherette upholstery and a powered driver seat. Battery warranty is industry-leading at 8 years/1.6 lakh km, with a 7-year/1.5 lakh km vehicle coverage. In Euro NCAP tests (via the related MG S5 EV), it scored five stars, underscoring MG’s safety push.

Pricing and Variants: Unbeatable Value in 2025

In India, the 2025 MG ZS EV starts at ₹18.13 lakh ex-showroom for the Excite, climbing to ₹20.50 lakh for the Exclusive Pro—post a June 2025 price cut of up to ₹6.14 lakh, making it cheaper than ever. On-road prices in Delhi hit ₹24.79 lakh for the base. Globally, UK pricing begins at £27,495 for the SE Long Range, undercutting the Kia e-Niro by £3,000.

Running costs? Look for ₹1-1.5/km compared with rivals who use petrol at ₹8-10/km, and tax breaks through April 2025. MG’s battery-as-a-service (BaaS) model reduces upfront prices by 30-40% in certain cities.

How It Stacks Up: The ZS EV vs. Key Rivals in 2025

On value, the ZS EV smashes it, but there’s an opportunity to compare:

It’s the ZS EV that will take home both space and features against its rival, while the Nexon EV will be a bit ahead in terms of pricing and service support. Compared to the more expensive Kona it provides roughly equal range for 20% less, and the Atto 3 edges ahead with battery tech but at a price. Real-world verdict: Great for families who don’t place a premium on outright range dominance.

The Road Ahead: Why the MG ZS EV Excels in 2025

With India’s EV infrastructure expanding—MG’s fast-charging network now spans 31 cities—the ZS EV’s 2025 updates make it more relevant than ever. It’s not the quickest or most luxurious, but for ₹18 lakh, you get a spacious, safe, and serene SUV that slashes running costs and emissions. As the second-gen ZS EV (potentially badged differently) looms for 2026 with up to 500 km range, the current model remains a steal.

Test drive one at your nearest MG dealership or explore financing via mgmotor.co.in. In a market flooded with options, the ZS EV proves electric mobility doesn’t have to break the bank—it’s electrifyingly simple.