2018 MG XS compact SUV is headed to the UK this winter

Now owned by Chinese carmaker SAIC Motor, British auto company MG is introducing its latest sports utility vehicle in the United Kingdom – the new MG XS. A little brother of the MG GS, the new MG GS compact SUV will go on sale in the UK in winter 2017, months after it was unveiled at recently concluded London Motor Show.

In case you missed it, MG is launching a new baby SUV in China, the new MG ZS. The MG XS is basically a rebadged version of the ZS, although it is expected that some changes would be made – mostly in the area of mechanicals and in the cabin – to allow this baby SUV to comply with regulations and be marketed in the UK. It will compete against the likes of Nissan Juke, SsangYong Tivoli, Dacia Duster and Suzuki Vitara.

MG – through its parent SAIC – is already selling the ZS in China. The new MG ZS is powered by 1.0 liter three-cylinder turbo engine that provides 123 bhp of max output and 125 lb.-ft. (175 Nm) of peak torque. This amount of power is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, allowing the MG ZS to sprint from standstill to 62 mph is just 9.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 120 mph. Weighing 1,290 kilograms, the new MG ZS measures 4,313 mm in length, 1,809 mm in height and 1,648 mm in width.

In terms of quality, finish and design, the new MG ZS is a step ahead of the MG GS. After all, the new ZS – known in the UK as the new XS – spearheads the carmaker’s new design direction. Compared to the GS, the ZS/XS features a large front grille similar to a Jaguar and the Mazda CX-3, sleek headlights and heavily styled rear lamps. Underpinned by a shorter version of the GS platform, the new MG ZS features a wheelbase that is around 80 mm longer than the Nissan Juke, which means that it offers more interior space. As for the luggage space, the cargo boot of the MG ZS could accommodate up to 1,166 liters when the 60:40 split-fold rear seats are folded flat.

It seems that the MG ZS is created to focus on providing more convenience and more comfort, instead of providing road prowess. The UK-bound MG XS should also have the same attributes, especially that it would be available with two engine derivatives and two transmission options. Power will be provided for by the same engine that powers the ZS, and by a lower-powered naturally aspirated 1.5-liter that delivers at most 118 hp (88 kW) of output and 111 lb.-ft. (150 Nm) of torque. Gearbox options include a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic unit.

PRESS RELEASE

MG MOTOR UK LAUNCHES ALL-NEW SUV AT THE LONDON MOTOR SHOW

MG Motor UK officially unveiled its all-new compact SUV – the MG XS – at the London Motor Show earlier today (4th May). Featuring the latest in driver technology, in-car infotainment and next-generation vehicle design, the new model offers a glimpse of the future for MG’s iconic model range.

Expected to arrive in dealerships in late 2017, the MG XS will be available in two engine derivatives and either automatic or manual transmission. The manufacturer’s first car to be marketed under a different name in the UK than China, the MG XS has been specifically-developed to suit market demand for a competitively-priced, family-friendly compact SUV.

Blending style, performance and practicality, the new model joins the highly-acclaimed MG3 Supermini and MG GS SUV in the brand’s all-new line-up for 2017. Pricing will be highly competitive, making the MG XS perfect for young families and new drivers alike.

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, commented: “The MG XS will be a real game-changer in the compact SUV marketplace. The meaning behind the name is simple – S stands for SUV, X means extra. Featuring state-of-the-art driver technology and innovative design, the new model builds on our growing reputation for capability, performance and quality, positioned at a highly-affordable price – the customer gets extra, for less!

“Full specifications, trim details and pricing will be announced later this year. Until then, customers can pre-book test drives and pre-order model brochures via approved MG dealers nationwide.”

The MG XS adds to the brand’s already popular line-up, meeting market demand for an affordable, compact SUV. For more information about the MG XS, visit www.mg.co.uk. To book a test drive or pre-order product brochures, contact your local MG dealership.

About MG Motor

The iconic British MG brand can trace its history back to 1924 and is world famous for making stylish cars that are fun to drive and own and are sold at remarkably affordable prices. Modern MGs, continue this long and rich MG tradition.

MG Motor UK currently has two models, both of which are designed and engineered at Longbridge, Birmingham: the MG3 supermini and the manufacturer’s first SUV, the MG GS. Several more models are planned for the immediate and longer-term future.

Starting from £15,095 OTR, the MG GS is MG Motor UK’s first SUV. The MG GS is a family, fun, affordable car. With bags of space, a 1.5 turbo petrol engine, the option of manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and tons of spec. This SUV certainly stands out amongst others in its class.

With entry-level models starting at £8,695 OTR, the MG3 is a new generation supermini which brings fun and style to this sector of the market at very affordable prices. The super-fun car was voted fifth best supermini in the Auto Express Driver Power survey. The 1.5-litre petrol-powered car can also be personalised, so owners have the option of giving their car their own style-statement.

MG was voted the fifth best manufacturer in the UK in the Auto Express Driver Power Awards in 2016. MG was the fastest growing brand in Britain in 2014 as shown by official figures issued by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Currently MG has the fastest growing network of dealers in the UK as sales continue to surge.