MG ZS Hatchback 2.0 TDi (101 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.4 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

MG ZS:

The MG ZS is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the Chinese automotive manufacturer SAIC Motor under the British MG marque. Announced at the 2016 Guangzhou Auto Show in China, the MG ZS is the second SUV to be produced under the MG marque after the MG GS. It is positioned below the larger HS, and above the smaller MG 3 hatchback. Since 2018, the ZS is available with a battery electric version called the ZS EV or in China, the EZS. In 2025, the hybrid version of the ZS was awarded Best Hybrid Car by British motoring magazine Carbuyer....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Hatchback Overview:

MG ZS (Hatchback). With 240 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.3 l/100km). Weighing only 1230 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.3 s). The top speed reaches 187 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The MG ZS itself was not directly tested by Euro NCAP. Its platform sibling, the Rover 45, received a 3-star rating for adult occupant protection in 2001, suggesting a similar, albeit dated, safety performance for the ZS.

2.0 TDi (101 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The entry-level diesel provides adequate power for daily driving, though acceleration is more leisurely compared to its 113 Hp counterpart.

Fuel Economy

Boasts the best fuel economy in the lineup, making it an extremely cost-effective option for high-mileage drivers.

Best Use Case: Economical commuting / Budget-conscious drivers

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging and sporty handling characteristics
  • • Distinctive and aggressive styling stands out
  • • Strong performance from the V6 engine option
  • • Good fuel economy from the diesel engines
  • • Often represents good value on the used market

Cons:

  • • K-series petrol engines prone to head gasket issues
  • • Interior quality and design feel dated compared to rivals
  • • Limited advanced safety features for its era
  • • V6 engine can be thirsty, impacting running costs
  • • Ride can be firm due to sporty suspension setup

Specifications:

General:
Brand:MG
Model:ZS
Generation:Hatchback
Modification (Engine):2.0 TDi (101 Hp)
Start of production:2001
End of production:2005
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:101 Hp @ 4200 rpm.
Power per litre:50.7 Hp/l
Torque:240 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:L / 20T2N
Engine displacement:1994
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:6.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:84.5 mm
Piston Stroke:88.9 mm
Compression ratio:19.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:7.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:5.4 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.3 sec
Maximum speed:187 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:12.2 kg/Hp, 82.1 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.1 kg/Nm, 195.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:9.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1230
Max. weight:1720
Max load:490
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:720 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:370 l
Fuel tank capacity:55 l
Size:
Length:4377 mm
Width:1696 mm
Height:1386 mm
Wheelbase:2622 mm
Front track:1475 mm
Rear (Back) track:1465 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size205/50 R16
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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