2026 MG ZS launched in Malaysia – CKD, 1.5 Turbo and Hybrid+ from RM103,900

KUALA LUMPUR: The all-new MG ZS has officially been launched in Malaysia, with local assembly (CKD) and two powertrain options. Buyers can choose between the conventional 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol model and the more powerful, fuel-efficient Hybrid+.

Prices start at RM103,900 for the MG ZS 1.5 Turbo, while the MG ZS Hybrid+ costs RM109,900. Both prices are for Peninsular Malaysia, excluding insurance.

That leaves just RM6,000 between the two variants, which makes the Hybrid+ quite an interesting proposition, at least on paper.

MG is also offering early-bird rewards worth RM3,000, along with five years of free maintenance for both variants.

Until 31 December 2026, Hybrid+ buyers receive an additional RM3,000 year-end reward on top of the existing early-bird benefits. Those choosing the 1.5 Turbo can instead take advantage of a special financing package offered through Hong Leong Bank and Bank Rakyat.

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MG ZS Hybrid+ – 215 PS and up to 870km of range

Let's start with the Hybrid+, because its specifications are arguably the more interesting of the two.

It uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine operating on the Atkinson cycle, paired with a 100kW electric motor and a relatively small 1.83kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery.

Combined output is quoted at 215 PS and 465 Nm of torque, with power delivered through a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).

According to MG, the ZS Hybrid+ can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 8.7 seconds.

However, the more significant figure for everyday driving is its claimed fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100km.

With a 41-litre fuel tank, MG claims a driving range of up to 870km on a full tank. As always, actual consumption and range will depend on driving conditions and habits.

The system also has eight propulsion modes, automatically managing how the petrol engine and electric motor work together.

Under suitable conditions, the Hybrid+ can run purely on electric power at speeds of up to 80km/h. It is a conventional self-charging hybrid, so there's no need to plug it in.

MG ZS 1.5 Turbo – 170 PS and 275 Nm

For buyers who prefer a conventional petrol engine, the entry-level MG ZS comes with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit.

The direct-injection engine produces 170 PS and 275 Nm of torque, with power sent through an eight-speed CVT.

MG says the transmission has been designed to handle up to 325 Nm of torque.

Fuel consumption is rated at 6.9 litres per 100km, and the petrol model gets a larger 55-litre fuel tank.

Compared with the Hybrid+, the turbocharged model produces 45 PS less and has a higher claimed fuel consumption figure.

Considering that the price difference is only RM6,000, the Hybrid+ certainly looks tempting. However, we'll have to drive both versions to see how the two powertrains compare in real-world Malaysian traffic.

New MG ZS gets 12.3-inch screens and ventilated front seats

Both MG ZS variants share the same basic exterior design, featuring a large front grille with black accents, slim headlights, sculpted body panels and LED taillights.

There is also a rear spoiler and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.

Four exterior colours are available: Flare Red, Silver, Andes Grey and York White.

In terms of dimensions, the new MG ZS measures 4,430mm long and 1,818mm wide.

Inside, the SUV gets an all-black cabin with perforated leatherette upholstery and ventilated seats for both the driver and front passenger.

The dashboard features two 12.3-inch displays, one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other handling the infotainment system.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, while a panoramic sunroof is also part of the equipment list.

MG says there are 30 storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin.

Boot capacity stands at 443 litres with the rear seats in place, increasing to 1,457 litres when they are folded down.

Both versions also come with three selectable driving modes – Eco, Normal and Sport.

Safety – MG PILOT with 16 driver assistance functions

On the safety front, the MG ZS is offered with the MG PILOT driver assistance package, which MG says includes 16 functions.

Among the features mentioned are Intelligent Cruise Control and Intelligent Headlight Control.

The MG ZS has also achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

There is also MG's iSMART connected-car system, allowing owners to access selected vehicle functions remotely through a smartphone, including keyless entry functionality.

Warranty and early-bird offers

For the first 3,000 customers, MG Malaysia is offering an upgraded seven-year, unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty for both variants.

The MG ZS Hybrid+ also comes with a separate eight-year or 160,000km warranty for its hybrid battery.

As mentioned earlier, both variants are eligible for RM3,000 worth of early-bird rewards and five years of free maintenance.

The Hybrid+ gets an additional RM3,000 year-end reward until 31 December 2026, while the Turbo is offered with a special bank financing package during the same period.

“The MG ZS brings together advanced powertrain technology, sleek and sporty styling, and practical features to meet the diverse needs of urban motorists. With an option of either 1.5T or the Hybrid+ powertrain, customers can decide what best suits their driving needs and preferences,” said Emory Qi, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia.

MG ZS Malaysia – is the Hybrid+ worth the extra RM6,000?

The interesting part about the new MG ZS isn't necessarily the equipment or its styling, but how closely the two variants are priced.

For RM6,000 more, the Hybrid+ offers significantly higher claimed power and torque figures, better fuel efficiency and the ability to operate on electric power at lower speeds.

Of course, the conventional turbocharged model still has its place, particularly for buyers who prefer a simpler petrol-only powertrain or want to keep the initial purchase price down.

But with such a small price gap, MG may have made the Hybrid+ the more attractive option of the two, assuming its real-world performance lives up to the figures.

Both variants are now available for test drives at authorised MG dealerships nationwide.

The MG ZS Hybrid+ will also be displayed at 1 Utama Shopping Centre from 29 October to 2 November 2026, between 10am and 10pm.

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