MG is more known for their crossover offerings in the market. In fact, they were first made popular with their ZS subcompact crossover. So it was only apt that in the 20th Manila International Auto Show, they’re previewing a more mass-market electrified version of the ZS in the form of the MG ZS Hybrid. They are also about to dip their wheels in the midsized SUV arena with the new D90 4×4.
MG ZS HEV
The most popular name in the MG lineup gets a big update for MIAS 2025. The MG ZS now looks like a bigger version of the MG3 hatchback. They have the same overall shape for the front fascia but the ZS has bigger faux vents on the corners of the front bumper, a more stylish grille, and a chrome accent flanked by the headlights.
The rear also has the same silhouette as the MG 3. Only the ZS HEV gets a different pattern on its taillight and the rear bumper is more sporty with its twin exhaust design and faux diffusers.
Inside the MG ZS HEV is a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster for the driver, power adjustable seats, powered sunroof, and a 360-camera system.
The new MG ZS HEV is powered by a 1.5L engine and an electric motor with a combined output of 196 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Fuel efficiency is claimed to be at 25 km/l.
It also features the latest version of MG PILOT – the brand’s suite of Advanced Driver Assist System. It has Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Traffic Jam Assist.
MG D90 4×4
The D90 gets a second life in the Philippines as the new 4×4 offering of MG. The MG D90 4×4 is poised to compete in the midsize SUV segment but with a different formula.
Under the hood of the D90 is a 2-liter Twin Turbo Diesel engine that makes 215 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Apart from the engine, the D90 got a new design as well. It traded its classy looks for a more rugged one, highlighted by the huge hexagonal grille. This is accompanied by slim Daytime Running Lights, a low-position headlight assembly, and front bumper skid plate accent.
The cabin gets twin 12.3-inch screens with the infotainment system having Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also 8-way Power Adjustable Driver Seats, optional Captain Seats for the 2nd row, Powered Sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and 64-color ambient lighting. It also has ADAS that includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Adjustable Overspeed Alarm System, Advanced Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring System.
There’s no price yet for both new models as this was only a preview. MG is promising that they will be really competitive though against the established rivals.
Made Global, Made Great
Apart from the cars, MG has launched their new campaign “Made Global. Made Great” emphasizing the quality that goes behind every MG car.
“This campaign is more than just a tagline – it’s a reflection of who MG is today,” says Karl Magsuci, Vice-President for Operations of MG Philippines. “We are a global brand with British roots and a strong presence in over 20 countries. Through this campaign, we aim to reinforce our promise of innovation, quality, and driving excitement for every Filipino car owner.”
They showcased a disassembled MG3+ Hybrid as an example of how MG really is global. The battery is built by CATL in China, tires are from Kumho in South Korea, the engine intake, belts, and timing components are from Gates Corporation in the US, EGR system from Borgwarner also in the US, aircon compressor by Sanden Huayu in Japan, Continental from Germany supplies the High Voltage Wiring Harness, Insulators, Seat System, and Interior Floor Insulation, while Bosch helps with the Brake Booster System, and Throttle Body Valve Controller among others.
MG is ensuring their cars have the highest quality by bringing in the expertise and products of these global brands. Most of them also have a joint venture partnership with SAIC Motor, the parent company of MG, ensuring parts availability and after-sales support at any time.
