MG ZS Pro (2025) Review
The MG ZS Pro is the facelifted version of the ZS SUV but, curiously, MG is selling both models side-by-side. Does the updated version bring enough value to the table?
We like: Strong performance, refinement, build quality, comprehensive safety, aftersales package.
We don’t like: Not the most efficient or exciting to drive.
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
Serious about buying/selling?
Some dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our New Car Specials!
Looking to sell your car? Sell it on Cars.co.za for free
Where does the MG ZS Pro fit in?
MG is a brand with a storied history. Originally a legacy British brand formed back in 1924, long before the days of crossovers such as the MG ZS Pro, MG is now under the ownership of SAIC Motor, a state-owned Chinese conglomerate. South Africa has a close history with the brand, being the first country outside of the UK to assemble the vehicles, with a plant in Durban.
The MG ZS Pro is essentially a facelifted version of the ZS but, interestingly, MG has decided to keep both models on sale. Think of this as MG’s VW Polo Vivo where the older model represents back-to-basics, honest motoring, and the newer offering boasts more flash, style and appeal. That said, both still retain excellent value for money in a jam-packed corner of the market.
Read more: MG ZS & HS (2025) Launch Review
It is worth noting that the Pro version is bigger, growing by 45 mm in overall length and 30 mm in width, with a wheelbase extension of 20 mm.
The sub-R500k segment is bursting at the seams with vehicles to suit all tastes and needs, and in this class, the MG ZS Pro has to contend with two of South Africa’s absolute favourite vehicles: the Toyota Corolla Cross and Haval Jolion Pro. All three feature models that dip under the R500k mark, and all offer roughly the same wheelbase and corresponding interior space. It doesn’t get more competitive than this.
Compare specs of the MG ZS Pro to the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Haval Jolion Pro
More alternatives? Sure, have a look at the Korean duo of the Hyundai Creta/Alcazar and Kia Seltos, as well as things like the Volkswagen T-Cross, Omoda C5X, BAIC Beijing X55, Renault Captur, Jetour Dashing, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, Jaecoo J5, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mahindra XUV 3XO and so on…
Design & packaging of the MG ZS Pro
MG offers the ZS Pro in two trim levels; Comfort and Luxury both boast commendable levels of standard equipment. The duo of derivatives come with LED daytime running lights, stability control, tyre-pressure sensors, rear parking sensors with reverse camera, USB ports front and rear, plus phone connectivity in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (but lacking wireless functionality).
The most notable difference between the Comfort and the Luxury derivative tested here is the comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) package. While the Comfort covers the basics, the Luxury has autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot detection and forward-collision warning, as well as an additional two airbags, taking the total to six.
Paying that bit extra for the Luxury trim also gets you larger 18-inch wheels, front heated seats, automatic climate control, keyless entry with button start, larger infotainment screen, 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, auto wipers and auto headlamps, to name a few.
With a wheelbase of 2 610 mm, the rear passenger space is on par with its immediate rivals like the Corolla Cross and Kia Seltos, and adults will not have too much trouble with head- and legroom.
In terms of material quality and fit and finish, we came away impressed. Everything has a soft-touch, premium feel to it, and we appreciated the subtle and classy touches, like the faux-leather-wrapped seats, which is a rarity at under R500 000. The switchgear is worth some kudos too, offering a reassuring, tactile feel and, when it comes to ergonomics, it’s great to see a sensibly sized and positioned infotainment screen.
Ride, handling & comfort
The higher-spec ZS Pro rides on 18-inch wheels wrapped in 215/50 rubber, while the entry-level derivative has a 17-inch setup. The steering is light with not much feel and, being a family car, there’s a strong focus on quietness and comfort.
The term CVT is usually a curse upon the driving experience, yet we found the MG’s transmission to be quiet and non-intrusive, which is how it should be. Granted, if you lean on the accelerator pedal, that typical prolonged engine noise will appear, but this doesn’t happen too often.
The overall sentiment of the MG ZS Pro’s on-road performance is that of refinement. At this price, it’s a case of managing expectations and yet there’s a certain upmarket feel and fuss-free on-road refinement. Basically, this vehicle drives more quietly and comfortably than vehicles costing more money.
It’s not perfect, however; one of our biggest gripes is a curious lack of telescopic adjustment on the steering wheel. It would make a world of difference when it comes to ultimate ergonomics and comfort.
Performance & efficiency of MG ZS Pro
Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and it has outputs of 125 kW and 275 Nm, making it one of the more powerful offerings in the segment. Both derivatives are front-wheel driven and, as mentioned, feature a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
MG reckons this powertrain combination is good for a 0-100 kph of 8.5 seconds, but our testing equipment exposed this to be on the conservative side, with the ZS Pro completing the run in a surprisingly brisk 7.73 seconds. Impressive.
There’s a cost to this level of performance, though. When it comes to efficiency, MG claims 6.9 L/100 km, but this time around there was no pleasant surprise awaiting us… We recorded a heavier-than-expected 10.1 L/100 km, which is not as frugal as its rivals. We suspect that, with a more conservative approach and use of eco mode, the consumption figure will come down. That said, if economy is your priority, we’d suggest going for the more expensive, diesel-powered Seltos or hybrid Corolla Cross, but their features list and aftersales plans are not as extensive as the MG’s.
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.
Some dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our New Car Specials!
Looking to sell your car? Sell it on Cars.co.za for free
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.
Want to purchase a new or used MG? Browse vehicles for sale
All the latest MG news and reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the MG ZS Pro cost in South Africa?
What engine powers the MG ZS Pro?
What is the claimed fuel consumption for the MG ZS Pro?
What is the warranty and service plan included with the MG ZS Pro?
- Vehicle Warranty: 7-year/200,000 km
- Engine Warranty: 7-year/unlimited km
- Service Plan: 5-year/60,000 km