Late-year surge puts MG in pole position

Plug-in and full EV, but so far no sign of all-wheel drive

Anyone who remembers the MG of old is permitted a sharp intake of breath. The new MG is New Zealand’s market leader in electric vehicles and one of the leading models is indeed an SUV.

Nationally, the electric vehicle sales wave continues to build, with MG topping New Zealand electric (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) sales statistics for the third quarter of 2021. The Motor Industry Association’s figures as at August show 575 new MG models sold.

The electric vehicle wave continues to build, with MG topping New Zealand electric (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) sales statistics for the third quarter of 2021. The Motor Industry Association’s figures as at August show 575 new MG models sold.

MG offers the HS Plug-In Hybrid and ZS full battery EV.

The electric motor and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine of the HS deliver 189kW of power and 370Nm of torque with overall fuel efficiency of 1.7L/100km combined cycle fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of just 39g/km.

It is capable of a pure-electric driving range of up to 63km from a single charge.

The new model comes with an impressive array of luxury features as standard, including MG Pilot Driver Safety Technology System, a large panoramic Stargazer sunroof, 360-degree camera as well as front heated and electrically adjustable leather sports seats with Alcantara trim.

With application of the current $5,750 Clean Car programme rebate, the price of a new MG HS Plug-In Hybrid reduces to $47,240.

It has a seven-year unlimited-kilometre battery warranty and a five-year unlimitedkilometre vehicle warranty.

Pricing for the MG ZS full EV starts at $48,990.

Motorists considering a new EV or PHEV should also check their ‘feebate’ claim-back. One of the first to take advantage of the scheme bought an MG HS PHEV and was due $5750 back on his purchase. Twenty days later, NZTA deposited just $5000 into his account. A ‘clerical error’ was blamed.