Motor enthusiasts gathering at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit for this year's Festival of Motoring had a treat, as MG Motor South Africa unveiled three new models for the local market.
Making its first appearance on South African soil is the all-new ZS Pro compact crossover. It will be shown in its lively 1,5-litre turbo-petrol guise, offered in two trim levels: the well-appointed Comfort and the more comprehensive Luxury specification. The vehicle is designed to be a versatile companion for both city and open-road driving, promising a balanced mix of style, comfort and modern technology. The ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort will carry a price tag of R397 600, while the 1.5T Luxury is set at R431 500. Each purchase is backed by MG’s seven-year/ 200 000 km warranty and a five-year/ 60 000 km service plan.
The ZS Pro is generously equipped. Both variants feature full LED lighting, a 12,3-inch HD infotainment system, a 7-inch digital driver's display, a rear-view camera with parking sensors, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and keyless entry. A full suite of MG Pilot safety and driver assistance systems is also standard across the range. The Luxury grade adds further advanced features for a more involved driving experience.
Sharing the stage is the acclaimed HS PHEV, marking its African debut after finding success in markets like the UK and Australia. This plug-in hybrid blends electrification with a sophisticated drive, offering a practical step into a more sustainable future without sacrificing performance. Its powertrain pairs a 115 kW electric motor with a 105 kW petrol engine, sending a combined 220 kW and 350 Nm to the front wheels via a two-speed automatic transmission. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6,8 seconds and is capable of travelling up to 120 km on electric power alone. The HS PHEV is scheduled to arrive in local showrooms in the first half of 2026.
Completing the trio is the new MG3 Hybrid, a compact hatchback that combines efficiency with a spirited character. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds, making it a nimble and engaging choice for city driving and beyond. It comes well-equipped, with the Luxury trim featuring the complete MG Pilot advanced driver assist system as standard.
Festival visitors had a chance to take the new MG3 Hybrid for an exclusive test drive on the Kyalami circuit, experiencing its modern appeal and agile handling first hand. These dynamic characteristics are honed by a dedicated chassis team based in the UK, ensuring MG vehicles possess a responsive and engaging driving feel.
Alongside these new arrivals, MG’s halo model, the Cyberster electric roadster, was also be on display. With its dramatic design, it serves as a bold symbol of the brand's sporting heritage and electric future. It employs a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup producing a combined 725Nm of torque, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3,2 seconds.
Together, these models highlight MG's ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and delivering a engaging drive, pointing towards an interesting and electrified future for the brand.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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