2023 MG ZS EV Unveiled: Updated EV Gets Two New Extended-Range Battery Options to Challenge Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV

ZS EV has undergone significant changes.

MG has unveiled an updated version of its pioneering all-electric vehicle (EV) in Australia, the ZS EV small SUV, which will hit local showrooms in the second half of next year with some big changes.

First, the ZS EV has two new battery options: the 50.3kWh standard range provides 320km of WLTP certified range, while the 70kWh long range provides 440km. For reference: the 44.5 kWh engine of the pre-facelift model provides 263 km of run.

What's more, the ZS EV can now charge its battery faster: 11kW (+4kW) three-phase AC charging has been added along with 90kW (+15kW) DC fast charging, which can increase capacity from 80 to 40 percent per hour. XNUMX minutes.

The ZS EV's front electric motor has also been upgraded, with the pre-facelift model rated at 105kW, while the standard model is rated at 130kW and the Long Range model is rated at 150kW. Interestingly, the torque of 353 Nm of the first is higher than the 280 Nm of the second pair.

Either way, the ZS EV can sprint from standstill to 50 km/h in 3.6 seconds and to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, with a top speed of 175 km/h.

Otherwise, the ZS EV essentially follows the tires of the ZST, which is an updated version of the ZS with an internal combustion engine, meaning its new LED headlight and taillight design are already familiar.

However, the ZS EV goes its own way with a closed (dimpled) grille, a unique front fascia, bespoke alloy wheels and a custom rear bumper insert, the former being a significant departure from the more traditional previous element.

Inside, a 10.1-inch central touchscreen was introduced, equipped with MG's new iSmart infotainment system, as well as a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster. A wireless charger for smartphones will also debut.

Local pricing and full spec details for the facelifted rival Hyundai Kona Electric (from $54,500 plus travel expenses) and Kia Niro EV (from $62,590) will be released in Q2022 XNUMX, so stay tuned.

For reference, a single pre-facelift ZS EV variant is currently starting at $44,990, but multiple grades are expected to be introduced along with the two new facelift battery options, so the model line-up should at least quadruple.