2022 MG ZS Trophy Review | Philkotse Philippines

Updated Nov 22, 2022

Editor's: 4.0/5
Does adding a turbocharger mean a better crossover?
2022 MG ZS Trophy Review | Philkotse Philippines

In this review...

  1. Still a tough Coolray rival
  2. Facelift that matters
  3. Definitely better than ever
  4. Tech & Safety Review
  5. Engine & Performance Review
  6. Fuel Efficiency
  7. Verdict
  8. Variants and Price
  9. Color Options
  10. Specs

2022 MG ZS Trophy Review: Still a tough Coolray rival

At the end of 2021, the MG ZS bested the Geely Coolray in terms of annual sales – 4,158 to 3,221. While one can argue that these two are not exactly in the same segment – the ZS is more affordable despite their relative similarity in size – one can’t deny the popularity of the Coolray is slowly eating away from the sales numbers of the MG ZS.

2022 MG ZS-T Trophy - Turbo Time! | Philkotse Reviews

 
So, what can MG Philippines do? Take the fight to the Coolray’s arena in the form of the MG ZS T (Trophy), that is. With a new turbocharged engine now on its arsenal, does the new ZS T have what it takes to keep its current status as the best-selling subcompact crossover in the local market? Here’s a 2022 MG ZS Trophy review to settle the score.

4.0/5

MG ZS 2024 Review

How we do our reviews
  • aesthetics
    4.5/5

    Overall exterior & Interior design, build quality, form vs function

  • Safety & Technology
    3.5/5

    Number of safety & tech features, consistency during usage

  • Performance
    4.0/5

    Power delivery, acceleration, transmission, suspension, handling

  • Comfort & Practicality
    4.0/5

    Overall Ride Comfort, Space, Storage Areas

  • Value for Money
    4.0/5

    Sticker price vs overall package

2022 MG ZS Trophy Exterior Review: Facelift that matters

The turbocharged engine isn’t the only thing that’s new with the 2022 MG ZS T. With it also comes the ZS’s facelift that’s sold in other parts of the world. It now stands as the new range-topper, sold side-by-side by non-turbo ZS models that still have dated styling.

A picture of the MG ZS-T Trophy parked near a house.

The MG ZS-T Trophy

The changes include a redesigned front fascia, which now carries an updated Obsidian Matrix grille. The Mazda-esque design is now a thing of the past; the LED projector headlights are now adorned with a “snake light” design. The halogen fog lights double as turn-assist lights, basically switching on at night depending on the direction of the steering wheel. Cool feature, and equally functional too especially on dark alleys.
 
The sides retain the form, though you’ll appreciate the new design of the 17-inch wheels that’s reminiscent of the mu-X’s. The rubber’s thicker, too, filling the wheel well nicely.

A picture of the side of the MG ZS-T Trophy.

It side profile remains identical to the naturally aspirated variants

At the back, the changes are subtle yet effective. The graphics on the LED taillights are different, plus the chrome accents are fewer – though the shiny stuff still outlines the faux-exhaust tips.
 
Overall, the updates on the facelifted ZS aren’t revolutionary but they’re enough to give the crossover its own identity and refreshing look.

A picture of the rear of the MG ZS-T

The MG ZS-T Trophy from the rear

 

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2022 MG ZS Trophy Interior Review: Definitely better than ever

Inside, the changes are more apparent when you touch them. Unlike the non-turbo ZS, the ZS T comes with soft-touch materials and leather. The leather D-shaped steering wheel feels nice to the touch. Despite the lack of telescopic adjustment for the tiller, finding my ideal driving position was still a cinch.

A picture of the interior of the MG ZS-T

A peek into the MG ZS-T Trophy's front cabin

The carbon-fiber printed dashboard is still up for preference, but what I appreciate is the clean execution of the buttons, knobs, and other controls. There are several cubbyholes as well and a huge storage area near the gear lever for my smartphone. However, I wish the cupholders are as big as they struggle to hold two McDonald’s coffee cups with ease, more so for larger “venti” cups.

A picture of the MG ZS-T's rear cabin.

The rear cabin provides ample room, and the seats can be folded with a 60:40 split

The ZS Trophy’s rear cabin doesn’t have a foldable center armrest, but at least occupants have A/C vents and charging ports. Space is still very comfortable for two average-sized adults; fairly okay for three. The panoramic sunroof extends to the rear, though I wish its cover is a bit thicker and more opaque to bar extensive sunlight from coming in. Good thing there are A/C vents at the back to counter the heat especially at noon.

A picture of the MG ZS-T Trophy's trunk

The MG ZS-T Trophy's trunk

As for the trunk, 450 liters of space is available when the floor is at its lowest setting. Not cavernous but more than usable for usual cargo-carrying tasks. Loading height isn’t too tall as well. You can even maximize that to over 1,100 liters by folding the rear backrests.

2022 MG ZS Trophy: Tech & Safety Review

The MG ZS T’s design changes come with tech & safety feature updates, too. The 10-inch infotainment does come with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – features that are notably absent with the Coolray. The instrument cluster’s digital, as well, and boy the display looks good. I just wish you can toggle the view but then again, the rich color makes up for it.

A picture of the MG ZS-T's touchscreen

A closer look at the MG ZS-T's touchscreen headunit

The same can’t be said about the display of the 360-degree-view camera and rear parking camera. Both are usable even at night but I think they can be better if they have a higher resolution.
 
The electronic seat adjustment for the driver is a notable inclusion, as is the electronic climate control. Props to MG for combining auto-brake hold with the electronic parking brake; it made traffic jams more bearable. Also, two USB ports are located near the spot where you’ll put your smartphones, plus there’s a USB port near the rearview mirror – a perfect spot for your dashcam. You got to love the thought put into that.

A picture of the MG ZS-T Trophy's interior.

The MG ZS-T Trophy's cockpit

Cruise control is also available in the MG ZS T, although there’s something to be said about its usability. It’s located behind the steering wheel acting as a third stalk, therefore it isn’t as easy to use as other CC buttons usually found on the steering wheel’s facade.

2022 MG ZS Trophy: Engine & Performance Review

The juiciest part of the 2022 MG ZS Trophy is its 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-three gasoline engine, co-developed by SAIC and General Motors. It’s good for 161hp and 230Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a new 6-speed automatic slushbox. Those numbers won’t beat the Coolray, but in terms of menial use, the 16hp and 25Nm differences aren’t substantial.

A picture of the MG ZS-T Trophy's engine bay.

The MG ZS-T Trophy's 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-3 gasoline engine

This holds true during real-world testing. Torque was readily available when you need it; there’s a satisfying pull once the turbochargers come in. There’s a noticeable lag but it wasn’t annoying and was manageable. The six-speed automatic was at least 10 years' worth of improvement from the sluggish gearbox of the non-turbo ZS. I just wish that there were paddle shifters, but that’s a nitpick on my end. Brakes were also predictable, plus the light steering and slightly stiff suspension made for an agile machine with minimal body roll on corners.
 
Speaking of comfort, it wasn’t compromised despite the marginal rigidity in dampening. I love the ZS T’s NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) insulation; I almost forgot that I was driving a car with odd-firing cylinders.

2022 MG ZS Trophy: Fuel Efficiency

The 2022 MG ZS T recorded quite good numbers in terms of fuel efficiency, especially within the confines of the city. In my test within light to moderate traffic flow, the small crossover returned 9.8 km/L, which was better than what we got with the Geely Coolray Sport Limited.
 
On the highway, though, cruising at 90 km/h registered 14 km/L for the MG ZS T, which was worse than the Coolray’s 18 km/L. Both tests were done with minimal passenger and cargo.

2022 MG ZS Trophy Review: Verdict

The 2022 MG ZS T is a great improvement from what the non-turbo variants can offer – not only in terms of performance and comfort but also when it comes to design, cabin material quality, and tech amenities.

A picture of the front of the MG ZS-T

The 2022 MG ZS-T Trophy is currently priced at Php 1,158,888

More importantly, it does hold a candle against the Coolray now. While one could say that the Coolray’s top-spec Sport Limited trim still has the upper hand in terms of tech features, we need to remember that the MG ZS T is still priced P100,000 lower at P1,158,888.
 
That said, you can look at the ZS T as a more affordable turbocharged crossover option if you’re not willing to go all out on a Coolray. And besides, MG Philippines has a wider network of dealerships in the country, which means accessible aftermarket service in more locations… at least for now.

2022 MG ZS Trophy Review: Variants and Price

2022 MG ZS Variants 

Price 

MG ZS Style 1.5 MT 

Php 818,888 

MG ZS Style 1.5 AT 

Php 868,888 

MG ZS Alpha 1.5 AT 

Php 998,888 

MG ZS T Trophy 1.3 AT 

Php 1,158,888 

2022 MG ZS Trophy Review: Color Options

MG ZS-T Color Options 

York White, Knife Silver, Obsidian Black, St. Moritz Blue, Flame Red 

2022 MG ZS Trophy Review: Specs

Overall 

Make  

MG 

Name 

MG ZS-T Trophy 1.3 AT 

Body Type 

5-door crossover 

Dimensions and Weight 

Length 

4,323mm 

Width 

1,809mm 

Height 

1,653mm 

Engine and Transmission 

Type 

1.3-liter turbo gasoline 

Max Power 

163 horsepower 

Max Torque 

230 Nm 

Transmission 

6-speed automatic w/ Sport and Manual mode 

Chassis and Suspension 

Brakes (Front/rear) 

Disc/Disc 

Suspension (Front/rear) 

MacPherson strut/Torsion beam 

Wheels and Tires 

17-inch alloy wheels 

Exterior 

LED Projector headlamps 

LED daytime running lights 

LED Taillights 

Front fog lamps 

Rain-sensing wipers 

Panoramic sunroof 

Interior 

Leather with red stitching 

Push-to-start button 

Leather steering-wheel 

Automatic air-conditioning with rear vents 

10-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 

6-piece speaker system 

Six-way power adjustable driver’s seat 

Manual Air-conditioning 

Cruise control 

Safety and Security 

Six airbags 

Anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution 

ISOFIX 

Reverse camera and rear parking sensors 

360-degree camera 

Alarm and engine immobilizer 

Electronic parking brake with auto-hold function 

Electronic stability control 

Traction Control 

Vehicle Dynamic Control 

Blind spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert 

Lane change assist  

Hill-hold control 

Hill-start assist 

Tire-pressure monitoring 

Jacob Oliva

Jacob Oliva

Author

Jacob is a motoring journalist and the Content Manager of Philkotse.com. A recipient of the Henry Ford Awards in 2019, he currently has a column under Wheels, the motoring section of The Philippine Star. He's also an editor for Motor1.com, a leading global automotive website.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacobosing/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobo_sing/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jacobo_sing

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