FiestaST
Honorary Master
MG ZS crossover lands in Mzansi with a turbo boost
ZS Pro compact crossover gets a 1.5 turbo engine with a peppy 125kW
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2018 MG ZS
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www.timeslive.co.za
FiestaST
Honorary Master
TechnoBok first drive of the new ZS Pro
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Review: 2025 MG ZS Pro
Verdict
The compact-SUV segment is littered with good offerings and, occasionally, subpar products, though I’m pleased to report the ZS Pro falls in the former category – it’s a good crossover. In addition, its standard seven-year/200 000 km warranty will provide peace-of-mind motoring for a very compelling entry point (at least when the base ZS gets phased out) to this historic brand. It also comes with a five-year/60 000 km service plan.
2025 MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury specifications
Price: R431 500
Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: CVT
Driven wheels: Front
Power: 125 kW @ 5 500 r/min
Torque: 275 Nm @ 4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 8.5 seconds (claimed)
Top speed: n/a
Fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km (claimed)
CO2 emissions: n/a
www.carmag.co.za
Verdict
The compact-SUV segment is littered with good offerings and, occasionally, subpar products, though I’m pleased to report the ZS Pro falls in the former category – it’s a good crossover. In addition, its standard seven-year/200 000 km warranty will provide peace-of-mind motoring for a very compelling entry point (at least when the base ZS gets phased out) to this historic brand. It also comes with a five-year/60 000 km service plan.
2025 MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury specifications
Price: R431 500
Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: CVT
Driven wheels: Front
Power: 125 kW @ 5 500 r/min
Torque: 275 Nm @ 4 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 8.5 seconds (claimed)
Top speed: n/a
Fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km (claimed)
CO2 emissions: n/a
Review: 2025 MG ZS Pro
The MG ZS Pro has launched in South Africa, and we've sampled the newcomer in the Boland. CAR's Kyle Kock reports back...
www.carmag.co.za
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MG ZS Pro launched in South Africa: Here's what you get for your money
Chinese-owned British brand MG is plugging an important gap in its line-up with the introduction of the new ZS Pro compact SUV, which is launching in South Africa this week.
The MG ZS Pro doesn’t replace the current ZS model, which soldiers on as a value leader with its starting price of R289,900. Instead it slots between the older model and the more premium HS SUV, which starts at R499,900.
So how much for the new model? The new ZS Pro will be available in two variants, with the 1.5T Comfort retailing at R397,600 and the 1.5T Luxury coming in at R431,500.
The ZS Pro is significantly larger than the ZS, with overall length having grown from 4,314mm to 4,430mm, making it larger than the Chery Tiggo Cross but marginally smaller than the Toyota Corolla Cross and Haval Jolion. MG claims a boot volume of 443 litres.
Both ZS Pro models are powered by a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine that produces 125kW and 275Nm, with power going to the front wheels through a CVT gearbox with ‘stepped’ gear change simulations. A hybrid version is available in overseas markets, but that has not been confirmed for South Africa.
The Comfort base version ships with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera, a 7.0-inch partially digital instrument cluster, cruise control, single-zone climate control, and push-button start. Key safety features include front and side airbags, ESP stability control, and traction control.
Chinese-owned British brand MG is plugging an important gap in its line-up with the introduction of the new ZS Pro compact SUV, which is launching in South Africa this week.
The MG ZS Pro doesn’t replace the current ZS model, which soldiers on as a value leader with its starting price of R289,900. Instead it slots between the older model and the more premium HS SUV, which starts at R499,900.
So how much for the new model? The new ZS Pro will be available in two variants, with the 1.5T Comfort retailing at R397,600 and the 1.5T Luxury coming in at R431,500.
The ZS Pro is significantly larger than the ZS, with overall length having grown from 4,314mm to 4,430mm, making it larger than the Chery Tiggo Cross but marginally smaller than the Toyota Corolla Cross and Haval Jolion. MG claims a boot volume of 443 litres.
Both ZS Pro models are powered by a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine that produces 125kW and 275Nm, with power going to the front wheels through a CVT gearbox with ‘stepped’ gear change simulations. A hybrid version is available in overseas markets, but that has not been confirmed for South Africa.
The Comfort base version ships with 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera, a 7.0-inch partially digital instrument cluster, cruise control, single-zone climate control, and push-button start. Key safety features include front and side airbags, ESP stability control, and traction control.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Launch drive: New MG ZS Pro brings some spirit to the bland compact SUV market
MG is making steady progress since returning to our shores earlier this year, with the Chinese-owned British brand breaching 500 monthly sales for the first time in September, and plans are afoot to increase the dealer count to 50 by year-end.
MG's best-seller in South Africa is the previous-generation ZS compact SUV, which is a price-leader in the range with its budget-beating sticker of R289,900, but now that model has been joined by the new-generation model, which will be known locally as the ZS Pro.
The two will continue alongside each other for the time being, with the ZS continuing to serve the entry-level market and the ZS Pro plugging the gap between that and the larger HS.
The ZS Pro, launched to local media this week, is 116mm longer than the regular ZS, with its 4,430mm length making it larger than the Chery Tiggo Cross but slightly smaller than the Haval Jolion and Toyota Corolla Cross.
These three models will be the ZS Pro’s primary competitors, and it is priced accordingly, with the 1.5T Comfort retailing at R397,600 and the 1.5T Luxury entering your garage for R431,500.
For the record, the Chery Tiggo Cross is priced from R359,900, the Haval Jolion Pro from R391,150, and the Toyota Corolla Cross starts at R414,800.
MG is making steady progress since returning to our shores earlier this year, with the Chinese-owned British brand breaching 500 monthly sales for the first time in September, and plans are afoot to increase the dealer count to 50 by year-end.
MG's best-seller in South Africa is the previous-generation ZS compact SUV, which is a price-leader in the range with its budget-beating sticker of R289,900, but now that model has been joined by the new-generation model, which will be known locally as the ZS Pro.
The two will continue alongside each other for the time being, with the ZS continuing to serve the entry-level market and the ZS Pro plugging the gap between that and the larger HS.
The ZS Pro, launched to local media this week, is 116mm longer than the regular ZS, with its 4,430mm length making it larger than the Chery Tiggo Cross but slightly smaller than the Haval Jolion and Toyota Corolla Cross.
These three models will be the ZS Pro’s primary competitors, and it is priced accordingly, with the 1.5T Comfort retailing at R397,600 and the 1.5T Luxury entering your garage for R431,500.
For the record, the Chery Tiggo Cross is priced from R359,900, the Haval Jolion Pro from R391,150, and the Toyota Corolla Cross starts at R414,800.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MotorMatters launch drive of the new ZS Pro
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Lawnchairman
Expert Member
We need the hybrid version.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MG ZS Pro (2025) Launch Review
What does the MG ZS Pro cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE PRICE
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort CVT R397 600
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury CVT R431 500
Prices (October 2025) include a 7-year/200 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.
As for the MG ZS Pro’s pricing, it’s really competitive. In my opinion, there’s such a small gap between the derivatives, you may as well splurge on the pricier one, considering all the aforementioned features.
The R33 900 premium for the MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort can be easily justified when you consider the range-topper’s comprehensive list of standard features. I haven’t even mentioned the intelligent headlights, folding mirrors, electrically adjustable driver’s seat and panoramic sunroof.
Summary
What both MG ZS Pro variants do share is the same 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. This combo is good for 125kW and 275Nm, endowing the small crossover with a 0-100 kph sprint time of 8.5 sec and an average consumption of 6.9 L/100 km.
In all honesty, that blend of performance and efficiency is quite acceptable for this package. What’s more, the model’s steering feels light and pointy with a chassis that followed my commands obediently… if somewhat uninspiringly. And that’s fine. For a car that has the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross, Haval Jolion Pro and Chery Tiggo 4 Cross in its crosshairs, the MG ZS Pro is perfectly up to the task.
What does the MG ZS Pro cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE PRICE
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort CVT R397 600
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury CVT R431 500
Prices (October 2025) include a 7-year/200 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.
As for the MG ZS Pro’s pricing, it’s really competitive. In my opinion, there’s such a small gap between the derivatives, you may as well splurge on the pricier one, considering all the aforementioned features.
The R33 900 premium for the MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort can be easily justified when you consider the range-topper’s comprehensive list of standard features. I haven’t even mentioned the intelligent headlights, folding mirrors, electrically adjustable driver’s seat and panoramic sunroof.
Summary
What both MG ZS Pro variants do share is the same 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. This combo is good for 125kW and 275Nm, endowing the small crossover with a 0-100 kph sprint time of 8.5 sec and an average consumption of 6.9 L/100 km.
In all honesty, that blend of performance and efficiency is quite acceptable for this package. What’s more, the model’s steering feels light and pointy with a chassis that followed my commands obediently… if somewhat uninspiringly. And that’s fine. For a car that has the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross, Haval Jolion Pro and Chery Tiggo 4 Cross in its crosshairs, the MG ZS Pro is perfectly up to the task.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MG ZS Pro (2025) why it matters – and its rivals
MG’s ZS Pro is a compact crossover that offers an interesting price-to-performance ratio for the majority of South African new car buyers. Who live at altitude.
Most cars in South Africa are registered inland, away from the coastal regions. And that means the highveld lives up to its naming convention: thinner air, which degrades engine performance. How much power do you lose driving the same naturally-aspirated engine at Gaueng versus Cape Town or Durban? About 17%. Which is a lot.
That’s why turbocharged engines are so important for most South African drivers: they lose the least power when all your driving is at altitude.
If your license plates are Gauteng, Northwest, Mpumalanga or Limpopo, a turbocharged engine has real appeal. Especially if you are in the market for a compact- to mid-sized crossover and do a lot of highway driving with a full complement of passengers.
Legacy brands that market compact crossovers in South Africa, at the sub R400 000 price point, don’t offer many turbocharged engine options. That’s where MG’s ZS Pro is interesting, because it does.
MG’s ZS Pro is a compact crossover that offers an interesting price-to-performance ratio for the majority of South African new car buyers. Who live at altitude.
Most cars in South Africa are registered inland, away from the coastal regions. And that means the highveld lives up to its naming convention: thinner air, which degrades engine performance. How much power do you lose driving the same naturally-aspirated engine at Gaueng versus Cape Town or Durban? About 17%. Which is a lot.
That’s why turbocharged engines are so important for most South African drivers: they lose the least power when all your driving is at altitude.
If your license plates are Gauteng, Northwest, Mpumalanga or Limpopo, a turbocharged engine has real appeal. Especially if you are in the market for a compact- to mid-sized crossover and do a lot of highway driving with a full complement of passengers.
Legacy brands that market compact crossovers in South Africa, at the sub R400 000 price point, don’t offer many turbocharged engine options. That’s where MG’s ZS Pro is interesting, because it does.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MrHowMuch launch review of the ZS Pro
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Paywall:
DRIVEN | Best Chinese car yet? Why MG’s ZS Pro left me stupidly impressed
DRIVEN | Best Chinese car yet? Why MG’s ZS Pro left me stupidly impressed
FiestaST
Honorary Master
MG ZS Pro (2025) Review
FAST FACTS
Model: 2025 MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury
Price: R431 500 (December 2025)
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol
Transmission: CVT
Power / Torque: 125 kW/275 Nm
Claimed fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km
Claimed 0-100 kph performance: 8.5 seconds
Luggage capacity: 443-1457 litres
How much does the new MG ZS Pro cost in South Africa?
ZS Pro 1.5 Comfort R397 600
ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury R431 500
A 5-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty, 7-year/unlimited km engine warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan is included in the price of the vehicle.
Verdict
With the segment bulging at the seams, customers are spoilt for choice when it comes to crossovers and SUVs, both from legacy carmakers and new brands which have entered the market. Factors like value for money and getting the basics correct right from the get go see some products get the jump on rivals.
The MG ZS Pro ticks both of these boxes with ease and this SUV proved better than expected. It’s not trying too hard to impress and amaze, but rather deliver an honest driving experience, backed up by an impressive aftersales package.
Should you buy one? In its current guise, the brand is still new to our market and therefore doesn’t have a long-term reputation yet, but initial impressions are positive. If you’re shopping in this segment, give the MG a second look. The dealership footprint is increasing constantly and there’s representation in all the major metropolitan areas.
FAST FACTS
Model: 2025 MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury
Price: R431 500 (December 2025)
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol
Transmission: CVT
Power / Torque: 125 kW/275 Nm
Claimed fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100 km
Claimed 0-100 kph performance: 8.5 seconds
Luggage capacity: 443-1457 litres
How much does the new MG ZS Pro cost in South Africa?
ZS Pro 1.5 Comfort R397 600
ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury R431 500
A 5-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty, 7-year/unlimited km engine warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan is included in the price of the vehicle.
Verdict
With the segment bulging at the seams, customers are spoilt for choice when it comes to crossovers and SUVs, both from legacy carmakers and new brands which have entered the market. Factors like value for money and getting the basics correct right from the get go see some products get the jump on rivals.
The MG ZS Pro ticks both of these boxes with ease and this SUV proved better than expected. It’s not trying too hard to impress and amaze, but rather deliver an honest driving experience, backed up by an impressive aftersales package.
Should you buy one? In its current guise, the brand is still new to our market and therefore doesn’t have a long-term reputation yet, but initial impressions are positive. If you’re shopping in this segment, give the MG a second look. The dealership footprint is increasing constantly and there’s representation in all the major metropolitan areas.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Road Test: 2025 MG ZS Pro
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury specifications
Price: R431 500
Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: CVT
Driven wheels: front
Power: 125 kW @ 5 000 r/min
Torque: 275 kW @ 3 000 r/min
TEST SUMMARY
The ZS Pro could have been the model that reintroduced the brand to South Africans but, for the reasons mentioned above, MG Motor South Africa brought the older ZS here as well. Although regarded as a successor to the ZS, the price difference between the two would suggest it’s an almost completely different model.
Nonetheless, the newer car arrives in a particularly competitive segment – one that’s awash with products from a wide variety of brands. Stacked with standard safety features, the MG ZS Pro is very compelling and comes with some peace of mind in the shape of a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and five-year/60 000 km service plan.
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury test score: 76/100
www.carmag.co.za
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury specifications
Price: R431 500
Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: CVT
Driven wheels: front
Power: 125 kW @ 5 000 r/min
Torque: 275 kW @ 3 000 r/min
TEST SUMMARY
The ZS Pro could have been the model that reintroduced the brand to South Africans but, for the reasons mentioned above, MG Motor South Africa brought the older ZS here as well. Although regarded as a successor to the ZS, the price difference between the two would suggest it’s an almost completely different model.
Nonetheless, the newer car arrives in a particularly competitive segment – one that’s awash with products from a wide variety of brands. Stacked with standard safety features, the MG ZS Pro is very compelling and comes with some peace of mind in the shape of a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and five-year/60 000 km service plan.
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury test score: 76/100
Road Test: 2025 MG ZS Pro
The second-generation MG ZS has arrived, and it’s a markedly improved product. We test the ZS Pro
www.carmag.co.za
Lupus
Honorary Master
- Joined
- Apr 25, 2006
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- 91,445
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Looks rather space ship... Plus no real buttonsRoad Test: 2025 MG ZS Pro
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury specifications
Price: R431 500
Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
Transmission: CVT
Driven wheels: front
Power: 125 kW @ 5 000 r/min
Torque: 275 kW @ 3 000 r/min
TEST SUMMARY
The ZS Pro could have been the model that reintroduced the brand to South Africans but, for the reasons mentioned above, MG Motor South Africa brought the older ZS here as well. Although regarded as a successor to the ZS, the price difference between the two would suggest it’s an almost completely different model.
Nonetheless, the newer car arrives in a particularly competitive segment – one that’s awash with products from a wide variety of brands. Stacked with standard safety features, the MG ZS Pro is very compelling and comes with some peace of mind in the shape of a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and five-year/60 000 km service plan.
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury test score: 76/100
Road Test: 2025 MG ZS Pro
The second-generation MG ZS has arrived, and it’s a markedly improved product. We test the ZS Pro
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