MG Quietly Drops 1.5-Litre Naturally Aspirated Engine From Popular MG ZS SUV

November 17, 2025 9:51 AM

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MG has confirmed to CarSauce that the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine has been discontinued across for the MG ZS.

Previously paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive, the 1.5-litre four-cylinder produced 81kW and 140Nm.

Runout offers remain available on the ZS, but once current stock is sold, the engine will no longer be offered.

This change marks a major shift for the ZS, which is now hybrid or turbo-petrol only. Entry price for the ZS has also increased, now starting at $25,990 driveaway - an extra $2,000 versus the outgoing naturally aspirated 1.5L engine in the same Vibe trim.

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Power for the ZS Hybrid+ comes from a system with a combined output of 158kW and 465Nm, featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 75kW and 128Nm, paired with an electric motor producing 100kW and 250Nm. The hybrid system uses a 1.83kWh battery and a three-speed transmission.

The turbo petrol engine engine - producing 125kW and 275Nm - was recently expanded across the ZS range for 2026, as detailed in CarSauce’s earlier report.

MG only recently announced the 2026 ZS update included recalibrated software for smoother hybrid performance and improved ergonomics.

The ZS 1.5 NA variants remain covered by MG’s 10-year warranty when serviced through authorised dealers.

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FAQ

Why has MG dropped the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine?

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MG Australia has confirmed to CarSauce that the 1.5-litre NA petrol engine has been phased out as the brand transitions toward more efficient turbocharged and hybrid powertrains across its range.

Which MG models were affected by the change?

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The discontinuation affects both the MG ZS small SUV and the MG3 light hatchback, which previously offered the 1.5-litre engine with a CVT and front-wheel drive.

What powertrain options are now available for the MG3?

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The MG3 is now exclusively offered as a Hybrid+. It produces a combined 158kW and 465Nm from a 1.5-litre petrol engine (75kW/128Nm) and an electric motor (100kW/250Nm), paired with a 1.83kWh battery and a three-speed transmission.

What happens to current 1.5-litre ZS and MG3 models?

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Runout offers remain available on both models while existing stock lasts. Once sold, there will be no 1.5-litre variants remaining in MG dealerships.

Will MG introduce the 1.5-litre turbo engine to the MG3?

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No. MG has confirmed there are no plans to introduce the 1.5-litre turbo engine—currently used in the MG ZS Turbo lineup—to the MG3 hatchback.

How has this change affected MG3 pricing?

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With the 1.5-litre Vibe removed, the MG3 now starts from $26,990 drive-away for the Excite Hybrid—a significant increase from the previous $21,522 entry price for the petrol Vibe.

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Matt Brand

Matt Brand is the driving force behind CarSauce, having initially launched the YouTube channel "Matt Brand Cars" in 2020. With his unique blend of humor, distinctive style, and deep automotive knowledge, Matt quickly grew the channel to over 120,000 subscribers. Before founding CarSauce, Matt worked in Management Consulting at KPMG and in the Aviation industry, leveraging his Bachelor of Commerce from The University of Melbourne. His background in business and consulting, combined with his passion for cars, has shaped CarSauce into a trusted source for automotive news and reviews. As the founder, Matt continues to set the tone for the brand, blending entertainment with expertise.