The 2026 MG ZS Essence Turbo challenges the notion that affordable cars are a thing of the past. In a market where many budget-friendly options have disappeared, MG has stepped in with a compelling offering. Sales figures confirm this: the ZS consistently ranks among Australia’s best-selling vehicles, even reaching the top four in August 2025.
The Rise of MG in Australia
MG’s success isn’t accidental. The brand entered the Australian market at a moment when competitors were scaling back on affordable models, creating a void that MG quickly filled. The ZS, in particular, competes directly with rivals like the GWM Haval Jolion and Toyota Corolla Cross, and often outsells them.
Power and Performance
The Essence Turbo sits at the top of the petrol-only ZS lineup. It features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 125kW and 275Nm of torque – a significant 54% power boost over the standard engine. This translates to more responsive acceleration and better overtaking capabilities. While not a sports car, the ZS Turbo delivers enough performance for daily driving.
Pricing and Value
The 2026 MG ZS Essence Turbo starts at $30,990 before on-road costs. MG offers drive-away pricing, adding $1000 to the retail price regardless of location, eliminating surprise fees.
Interior Design and Features
The interior of the ZS Essence Turbo stands out for its modern, minimalist design, especially given the price point. Features include a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, and faux leather upholstery. While materials aren’t luxury-grade, the overall aesthetic punches above its weight class. The car does lack wireless Apple CarPlay, requiring a wired connection instead.
Driving Experience
The ZS Turbo’s driving dynamics are… unique. The steering is sharp and responsive, but the chassis and suspension don’t always match that eagerness. Pushing the car hard reveals its limitations, but relaxed driving reveals a surprisingly enjoyable experience. The car seems to reward a more laid-back approach, making it ideal for city commuting. The CVT transmission works well enough, and the turbocharged engine provides ample power.
Safety and Reliability
The 2026 MG ZS holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating, thanks to the addition of a front-center airbag in models produced from December 4, 2025. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Ownership Costs
MG offers a seven-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty, extendable to ten years with exclusive dealership servicing. Servicing costs are capped, averaging $653.50 per year. The ZS Essence Turbo requires servicing every 12 months or 15,000km.
The Verdict
The MG ZS Essence Turbo offers compelling value for its price. Its modern interior, decent performance, and long warranty make it a strong contender in the affordable SUV segment. While it won’t set any handling records, it provides an enjoyable driving experience for everyday use. For buyers seeking a bargain with peace of mind, the MG ZS deserves serious consideration.
