MG Motor India Releases First Facelifted ZS EV Images Ahead Of Launch

• Images reveal cleaner bumpers, new alloy wheels, and the Astor’s lighting setup.

• Cabin will get the Astor’s digital driver’s display and a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen, and possibly a wireless charger too.

• Should get the UK-spec model’s new 51kWh and 72kWh battery packs, offering a WLTP range of up to 437km.

• Should rekindle its rivalry with the Hyundai Kona Electric, which is awaiting a facelift.

We know that MG Motor India has been working on the facelifted ZS for some time. Now, the carmaker has released the first official images of the electric SUV  without any camouflage, hinting it might be identical to the UK-spec model that debuted in October 2021. 

The model was draped in white, with the most noticeable change being the elimination of the faux front grille. We can also see the Astor’s headlights, a cleaner front bumper design, and redesigned alloy wheels. While we haven’t had a proper look at the rear, it will likely get the Astor’s tail lamps but a distinct bumper design. 

Earlier shots of the facelifted EV’s cabin shows the Astor inspiration is evident – it’ll get the same digital driver’s display and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. We could also get a wireless charger like the model sold abroad, but it remains to be seen if it features the Astor’s personal AI assistant.

Earlier spy images also revealed a camera in the front windshield and 360-degree cameras on the ORVMs, confirming that the biggest upgrade on the facelifted ZS would be the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), much like the Astor. This should comprise active emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and blind spot detection.  

Another significant change should come to the powertrain. The electric motor will likely remain the same 143PS unit, but the ZS EV sold abroad now uses a 51kWh battery pack, translating to a WLTP-claimed range of 318km instead of the earlier 262km (with the 44.5kWh unit). The ZS also gets an optional 72kWh battery pack, capable of offering 439km on a single charge. The EV overseas supports charging speeds of up to 100kW, allowing a 0-100 percent charge in just 42 minutes. 

Expect the facelifted MG ZS EV to launch in India later in February. It should be priced at a premium over the current-gen model, which retails from Rs 21.49 lakh to Rs 25.18 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Currently, the EV rivals the Hyundai Kona Electric, which is also awaiting its midlife refresh.