MG has increased the starting price of the new MG ZS EV by $2,000, and added an extra model grade as it prepares for a mid-2022 launch of the refreshed electric compact SUV.
The 2022 MG ZS EV will be available in an Excite grade from $46,990 drive-away and more luxurious Essence grade from $49,990 drive-away, the carmaker announced on Monday, seeking to offer “both value and luxury” to the increasing numbers of drivers seeking to go electric.
However, a long-range option with 72kWh battery that would offer up to 440km driving range has not made the grade as was hinted at in late 2021.
While that may be disappointing for some, the existing battery format will still provide plenty of range for day-to-day needs and for long distance trips stopping at chargers along the way.
In response to The Driven’s query about the exclusion of the long-range option, a spokesperson for MG Australia said:
“The decision has been made to focus on the 51kWh lithium iron phosphate-equipped new ZS EV for the Australian and New Zealand markets, because it offers the right combination of range, battery stability and life, recharging time and value for our customers.”
The spokesperson declined to confirm how many vehicles the carmaker’s local arm was able to secure for local drivers, but said, “we are confident that we can supply sufficient vehicles to meet demand.”
Having sold more than 1,300 vehicles in 2021 and with demand for electric vehicles at an all-time high in Australia, one might expect this to mean at least a few thousand vehicles. With supply of many EV models limited as carmakers prioritise inventory for overseas markets, we will not be surprised if the new MG ZS EV is snapped up quickly.
And while the price increase also means that MG has officially relinquished the title of “Australia’s most affordable EV”, the ZS EV will still represent one of just two EV choices under $50,000 driveaway in Australia.
Currently, this list consists of the ZS EV, and the newly launched BYD Atto 3; while the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq fastback both start at below $50,000 this pricing is subject to on-road costs.
MG Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Ciao said that as the MG ZS EV has led the way in affordable EV motoring, it still “offers more technology at a price that will allow everyday Australians to switch to electric motoring without compromise.”
Both new variants will come with a 51kWh battery with up to 320km driving range on a single charge, complemented by a new electric motor and better battery management .
A clean new design on the outside including closed-in grille area with hidden charge port, 21-module auto-dimming LED lights on the front and 9-module LEDs on the back give the ZS EV a fresh new look, coupled with new milled 17″ rims.
Inside, a 7″ virtual cluster sits on the dash while a new 10.1″ floating touchscreen that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto sets the 2022 ZS EV apart from its predecessor which had a more traditional built-in screen.
Satellite navigation, MG Pilot, reversing cameras and 360-degree cameras are standard on both model grades, while the more expensive Essence grade also get blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic alert, as well as cool additions like power-folding side mirrors and front seat heating.
A panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, six-speaker stereo and six-way adjustable seats also come standard with the more premium trim.
Both grades come with a seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty for both the vehicle and the lithium-ion battery, backed by 80 dealerships around the country plus fixed-price servicing.
MG says that the first 500 customers will also receive $500 towards an MG Charghub wall charger.
Bridie Schmidt is associate editor for The Driven, sister site of Renew Economy. She has been writing about electric vehicles since 2018, and has a keen interest in the role that zero-emissions transport has to play in sustainability. She has participated in podcasts such as Download This Show with Marc Fennell and Shirtloads of Science with Karl Kruszelnicki and is co-organiser of the Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Forum. Bridie also owns a Tesla Model Y and has it available for hire on evee.com.au.