Ultra-affordable Chinese SUV returns: 2026 MG ZS base grade reintroduced to lead budget battle against Chery Tiggo 4, GWM Haval Jolion and Mahindra XUV3XO

It will start from $22,990, drive-away, as part of a limited-time offer lasting until the 28th of February 2026.

The ZS Vibe was last seen in the 2025 model year.

The turbo version of the Vibe, which used to be the entry grade, continues to start from $25,888 (drive-away).

Unlike higher grades of the ZS, the Vibe’s 1.5-litre engine is not turbo-charged and it only produces 81kW/140Nm, as opposed to 125kW/275Nm with turbo variants. 

The ZS is also available as a hybrid, which boosts the performance figures to 158kW and 465Nm, starting from $30,888, drive-away. 

The more affordable ZS variant cements MG’s place as one of the budget leaders in the small SUV segment. 

It is more than $10,000 cheaper than the base variant of the more popular Hyundai Kona.

It is also now $4000 cheaper drive-away than fellow Chinese rival, the GWM Haval Jolion. GWM's car boasts a more powerful turbo-petrol engine.

The Vibe grade's return also means it is now $1000 cheaper than a comparative Chery Tiggo 4. 

It misses out on much of the gear found on higher grades of the ZS, such as 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and a digital driver display. 

Instead, there are 16-inch alloy wheels and halogen headlights, with daytime running lights.

It gets a smaller 10.25-inch central screen, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The Vibe keeps most of the safety features found on other models, including auto emergency braking, lane keep assist and blind spot detection. 

A reversing camera and far-side airbag are also part of the car’s safety suite. 

2026 MG ZS pricing Australia