Chinese automakers are crushing it this year with upscale vehicles. The newest model of the MG ZST has brought in booming sales for the brand. It’s launch was very well received by the Emiratis who are always anticipating new cars. Keeping this in mind, CarSwitch which is the top place to sell any car in Dubai, has reviewed the vehicle.
What’s the exterior like?
The appearance is very much like the ZS vehicle of the same brand. Both the cars drive on the same 2585mm wheelbase and are similarly packaged. However, due to the somewhat different style of the ZST, it is 9mm higher and 9mm longer than the ZS.
A lot of features have been added to the exterior to make it modern and unique. For example, at the front we have a big MG logo, brand new headlights, a bold black-mesh grille design, bumper and 21 LED headlights.
At the back, a revised bumper design and new LED taillight lenses are located which are the same as before. An access to the luggage space is given through the big MG badge at the tailgate. The alloy wheels are of standard size with a unique design. However, the Essence trim has more attractive wheels as it is costly.
What’s the interior like?
As opposed to the ZS cabin, the ZST has done a better job on the interior. The main highlight is perhaps the huge 10.1 inches touchscreen which is topped at the center console. Moreover, the dashboard excels in both the style and quality. In the Essence trim level, an all-digital instrument tech graces the dashboard.
It also features a 6-way Electric seat which comes with outstanding adjustment. This feature makes it easy to come face-to-face with the tilt-only steering column. As for the Excite’s trim, it’s analogue dials are decent but it feels tight in the centre instrument screen. The same is seen in the driving position.
Considering how it is a tiny SUV, extensive legroom and headroom is offered. The only drawbacks are that the backrest is a bit too reclined which kills the purpose of comfort and the seats are flat. Moving on to the views, the sunroof is huge which is something the children look out for the most.
Safety gear
What the customers receive for safety add 6 airbags and the MG Pilot active safety suite at the top-deck. This includes lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, Forward Collision Warning, rear cross traffic alert, autonomous emergency braking, active lane assist, category-first traffic jam assist, auto high beam, Adaptive cruise control and speed sign recognition.
Moreover, there are a 360 degrees Surround Vision parking camera, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera present in both models.
Entertainment
When it comes to infotainment and entertainment, ZST is highly capable. It holds a 10.1 inches touchscreen featuring cutting edge technology and sound. Although, it will take a bit of time to practice with the mix of tab switches underneath and touchscreen operation.
But once you get the hang of it, everything seems simple and straightforward to control. The wired Apple CarPlay has a few glitches but after the proper operation, it works with good speed and precision.
The audio system boasts a 6 speaker stereo function having the strong bass production from the subwoofer. In order to place the smartphone, the dual USBs present at the base of the center stack come with a tiny tray.
Power and driving
The ZST comes with a single engine which is the new 3 cylinder, 1.3 liter turbocharged petrol and delivers 115kW and strong 230 Nm torque. This engine is paired directly to the 6-speed Japanese automatic transmission.
Due to the British tuning, a pleasant drive quality is guaranteed. The three different settings provided by the electric steering are Dynamic, Urban and Normal.
All of these can be accessed via the center touchscreen and have significant levels of weighting difference.
So this was the review of the brand new 2021 MG ZST. It carries appeal, aesthetics and power to tackle the majority of the terrains. If you want more information, visit CarSwitch where we boast of a huge number of certified and inspected vehicles.