MG Motor India revealed the ZS petrol, the
ZS EV’s ICE sibling, at Auto Expo 2020. It is expected to launch in early 2021
and could come with two engine options. It’ll also come with a cosmetic update
and looks a bit different when compared to its EV counterpart. Here’s a quick
round up of what to expect from the upcoming model.
The ZS petrol could be offered with two
engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) unit and a 1.3-litre
turbo-petrol motor. The NA motor develops 120 PS and 150 Nm while the
turbo-petrol unit puts out 163 PS and 230 Nm. Transmission options include a
5-speed manual, CVT and a 6-speed automatic. It must be mentioned that power figures of the
ZS’ NA petrol unit is on par with the Kia Seltos, its closest rival, while the
MG’s turbo-petrol engine is more powerful than the Kia.
The ZS petrol’s silhouette is almost the
same as its electric sibling. However, it comes with a handful of design
updates that freshens up its design. Highlights include sharper headlamps, new
17-inch alloy wheels, redesigned bumpers as well sharper tail lamps. To our
eyes, the ZS petrol looks far more appealing the ZS EV.
We couldn't have a look at the ZS’
interior as it was blacked out. However, we expect it to be similar to the ZS
EV, which is no bad thing. The ZS EV has a neatly laid out cabin with a
minimalistic design. Quality of the cabin and materials is generally good and
we couldn’t fault its fit and finish levels as well. The ZS is expected to come with features like
i-SMART connected car technology, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a panoramic
sunroof, climate control, a multi-info display (MID), keyless entry with push
button start as well as powered front seats. Expected safety features include 6
airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, a rear view camera and electronic
stability control.
The ZS petrol is expected to launch in the
country in 2021. Its rivals include the Kia Seltos, 2020 Hyundai Creta and the
upcoming Skoda Vision IN, Volkswagen Taigun. We expect the MG ZS to be priced
from Rs 11 lakh as it sits in the hotly contested midsize SUV segment.