2023 MG ZS EV Long Range revealed

One of the country’s most affordable electric cars has just received a massive upgrade that addresses one of its biggest drawbacks.

MG’s electric car assault is continuing full steam ahead.

The Chinese brand has revealed prices for the long-range version of its ZS EV and confirmed the new MG4 small electric hatchback will arrive in the second half of this year.

MG Australia boss, Peter Ciao, says buyers have demanded a longer range version of the ZS EV.

MG’s ZS EV has now got a long range version.

“Following the success of the ZS EV in September last year, we have listened to our customer’s feedback and have fast-tracked the arrival of our new ZS EV long range,” says Mr Ciao.

The MG ZS EV Long Range variant is priced from about $57,700 drive-away, which is roughly $11,000 more expensive than the entry-level standard range version.

Buyers can order the ZS EV Long Range later this month, with deliveries expected from April.

For the extra money you get a driving range of 440km, a huge jump from 320km in the regular version.

It comes with a bigger 72.6kWh battery, up from the 50.3kWh power plant in cheaper variants.

It’s big battery boosts driving range by 120km.

The ZS EV Long Range uses the same 130kW/280Nm single electric motor as the rest of the range.

Charging speed is below average: it takes up to an hour to replenish 80 per cent of the battery via a fast charger.

It comes with an extensive list of standard equipment including must-have items such as a 10.1-inch central touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connectivity is further boosted by in-built satnav, Bluetooth, digital radio, a wireless device charging pad and five USB charging ports.

The brand also confirmed the new MG4 will arrive in the second half of this year.

Buyers can expect faux-leather seats, heated front seats and an electronically adjustable driver’s pew, plus a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

There are exterior chrome highlights and flashy 17-inch alloy wheels. A panoramic sunroof, roof rails and rear privacy glass are standard, too.

MG has fitted a comprehensive array of safety gear.

The electric hatchback is already on sale in the UK.

The ZS EV Long Range will automatically brake if it detects a potential collision, it’ll warn you if a vehicle is in your blind spot or approaching from the side as you reverse and it’ll help you stay centred in your lane.

MG Australia hasn’t revealed any local details about the coming MG4 small hatchback, but the vehicle is on sale in the UK giving us a preview of what we are likely to get.

Overseas it comes with the choice of two batteries and motors; a 50.8kWh unit good for 350km of range and a single electric motor making 125kW/250Nm, or a longer range version with a 61kWh battery good for about 450km of driving, with a 150kW/250Nm motor.

Prices start at £26,995 ($49,200) and rise to £32,495 ($59,200).