MG ZS EV Gen 1

Overview

The 2021 MG ZS EV Gen 1 stormed the scene as a proper bargain in the electric SUV world. This final iteration of the original model offered cracking value, packing a practical punch for families dipping their toes into electric motoring. It’s a no-nonsense compact SUV that’s surprisingly well-kitted for its price point, with used examples in Europe hovering around €12,145. It delivered an accessible EV experience without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for savvy buyers looking for an affordable, capable electric runabout for city and suburban life.

What's New for 2021?

As the 2021 model year marked the final chapter for the first-generation ZS EV, it represented the culmination of the original, highly successful formula. There weren't major overhauls for this specific year, as MG was gearing up for the significantly updated facelift model that followed. Instead, the 2021 Gen 1 solidified its reputation for value, offering a proven package of electric mobility. It continued to provide a compelling entry point into EV ownership, essentially carrying over the popular features and specs from its initial launch, setting the stage for its popular successor.

Design & Exterior

The 2021 MG ZS EV Gen 1 sports a smart, if somewhat conventional, compact SUV design that appeals to a wide audience. It’s not shouty, but its clean lines, distinctive star-rider grille (cleverly hiding the charge port on this gen), and signature LED daytime running lights give it a contemporary look. Rolling on stylish alloy wheels, its dimensions are perfectly suited for urban life: 4313 mm long, 1809 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1644 mm tall. It’s a tidy package that looks more expensive than it is, especially in brighter colours.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the ZS EV Gen 1 offers a surprisingly spacious and functional cabin for its class. While some plastics might feel a bit budget, the overall build is solid and it's generally well-equipped. You'll find comfortable seating for five. Tech-wise, an 8-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was a common feature, keeping you connected. For your bits and bobs, there's a decent 448-litre boot, which is pretty generous for a compact SUV. Unfortunately, this early bird doesn't come with a frunk for extra cable storage.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let its budget tag fool you; the ZS EV Gen 1 is surprisingly nippy! With its front-wheel-drive setup powered by a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor, it zips from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 8.2 seconds. The motor churns out 105 kW of power and a healthy 353 Nm of instant torque, making it feel lively around town. The driving experience is geared towards comfort and ease of use, with light steering ideal for urban manoeuvres and a top speed of 140 km/h. It also features adjustable regenerative braking modes.

Range, Battery & Charging

The 2021 ZS EV Gen 1 is equipped with a 42.5 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a real-world range estimated by Green Cars Compare at around 237 km – plenty for daily commutes. Its efficiency is rated at a respectable 5.58 km/kWh. For charging, the standard 6.6 kW on-board AC charger can top up the battery overnight in about 7 hours. When you’re out and about, it supports DC fast charging via its CCS Type 2 port at speeds up to 76 kW, getting you from nearly empty to 80% in roughly 40 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit for the MG ZS EV Gen 1, impressively bagging a full 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. This peace of mind often came courtesy of MG Pilot, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems frequently included as standard on European trims. This typically packed in features like Active Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert were also often available, making it a very safe bet for families seeking value.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

MG really backed the ZS EV Gen 1 with a comprehensive warranty package, a significant selling point in Europe. This typically meant a fantastic 7-year or 150,000 km warranty covering both the vehicle and the high-voltage battery, including a degradation guarantee, offering excellent peace of mind. Maintenance is generally minimal as with most EVs – no oil changes to worry about! Reliability has been reported as pretty solid for this generation, enhancing its attractiveness as a used proposition for budget-conscious EV adopters looking for straightforward electric motoring.