Front-side view of a blue Renault Clio parked on a modern ramp structure, featuring sporty alloy wheels and sleek LED headlights.

RAC reviews: hybrid car to consider

Choosing a hybrid vehicle can mean smoother drives, greater fuel economy, and fewer trips to the pump. In this article, the RAC reviews the MG ZS Hybrid. 


This article has been written by RAC to help you consider options available to lease through the Motability Scheme*.   

VAT changes to the Motability Scheme

From 1 July 2026, some tax changes announced by the UK Government will affect new leases on the Motability Scheme.

New car Advance Payments will be shown with standard rate VAT (20%).

You may be eligible for VAT relief if the vehicle has been permanently and substantially adapted for someone who normally uses a wheelchair, or who needs to travel on a stretcher.

Your dealer will explain what applies to you before you order your vehicle.

Read more on the changes

MG ZS Hybrid

  • Category: Small SUV
  • Advance Payment: From £499
  • Fuel type: Petrol-electric hybrid
  • Seats: 5
  • Performance: 196hp, 8.7 seconds / Fuel economy: Up to 55.4mpg

Front-side view of a red MG ZS Hybrid SUV with a sporty front grille and sleek headlights, shown on a plain background.

Reborn brand MG has become hugely popular in the UK, offering capable yet great value-for-money cars. The ZS small SUV is the biggest seller for the brand: over a million examples have found homes since it arrived in 2017. 

This all-new MG ZS builds on that success. It’s bigger and more practical for starters, competing in size with cars like the Nissan Qashqai, with lots of cabin space whether you’re carrying large adults or children in car seats. A 443-litre boot will take a couple of pushchairs, too, with a height adjustable boot floor making loading items in and out easier.  

The interior is also a much nicer place to sit than before. Cabin quality is much higher thanks to plenty of soft-touch trim, padded armrest and metallic trim elements, while the design is attractive and the high driving position gives you a great view out. Our only complaint is the lack of adjustment in the steering wheel, meaning the ZS might not be suitable for taller drivers.  

Technology is easier to use than the old ZS, too, while standard kit includes sat-nav, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and keyless entry. Top-spec Trophy brings niceties such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a handy 360-degree camera system to further aid parking.  

MG’s new self-charging hybrid system is surprisingly powerful, with 196hp giving a 0-62mph time of just 8.7 seconds. The engine generates power for electric motors rather than driving the wheels directly, meaning you get instant acceleration and smooth low-speed running like an electric car. Despite that, the ZS Hybrid delivers great fuel economy of up to 55.4mpg. 

All in all, the MG ZS Hybrid+ is a small SUV with big space, punchy performance and more stylish than your average affordable car.   

Read the RAC Drive MG ZS Hybrid review

And check out the RAC’s reviews of three popular SUVs on the Scheme.

Interested in joining the Scheme?    

You can enjoy a brand-new, reliable vehicle on the Motability Scheme. Simply exchange your qualifying mobility allowance for a brand-new car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair and our all-inclusive package.   

Find out more information about the Scheme.

*Prices and features of car models shown are correct at the time of writing and may be subject to adjustments or withdrawal in the event of any changes taking place which affect the cost of provision of the lease agreement. Prices shown are valid for recipients of the HRMC of the DLA, and ERMC of PIP making an application between 01/07/2025 and 30/09/2025, but may be subject to change. Customers are advised to check any specifically required vehicle features with their dealer at the point of application. 

Related articles

How the new car market is changing in 2026

Watch James’ next step in his journey to an EV

How an Electric Vehicle could save you money and help the planet

From the Motability Scheme


Categories


Related articles


Popular articles

Top