BMW I3 vs MG ZS
What's the difference?

BMW I3

—

2020 price

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MG ZS

$17,980 - $32,990

2025 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A35

Mercedes-Benz A45

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Summary

2020 BMW I3

2025 MG ZS

By James Cleary

Safety Rating

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Turbo 4, 1.5L

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Electric range

270 km

6.9L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

14.6 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

42.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Design
Dynamics
Tech

Value
Performance
Refinement

Dislikes

Pricey
Tight rear room
Short warranty

Thirsty
Pricey servicing
Over-speed warning

2020 BMW I3 Summary

It’s easy to forget BMW was paddling into the growing electric vehicle wave when it was only a gentle swell. It took off early with the i3 city car, which believe it or not has been in the Aussie new car market for six years.

While the German maker has long been developing the concept of electrified powertrains in existing models, the i3 was the result of a dramatically different approach, showcasing the use of exotic materials and innovative packaging.

Like its i8 supercar sibling, the i3 won’t be replaced with a new-generation version, but BMW says it will continue to develop this high-tech hatch before it departs, and we spent a week in the sporty i3s to see how it stands up in 2020.

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2025 MG ZS Summary

The MG ZS stands as a firm favourite with Aussie small SUV buyers, in a close-fought arm wrestle with the Hyundai Kona and Mitsubishi ASX for supremacy in a cut-throat competitive part of the new-car market.

Launched here in late 2017, and updated in 2020, MG subsequently added the ZS EV before launching this new-gen version in late 2024. It has initially been offered in hybrid and naturally aspirated petrol versions to maintain its position at the pointy end of the sales race. However, there’s nothing like a turbo model to add some extra spice to your compact SUV line-up.

And that’s what we have here, the ZS Essence Turbo, a punchy, keenly-priced addition to MG’s local range. Stay with us to see if it has enough boost pressure to muscle its way onto your new-car short list.

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Deep dive comparison

2020 BMW I3 2025 MG ZS

Verdict

Yes, it’s pricey for a small hatch, but this little BMW is a city car like no other. The i3s is tailor made for the urban environment, and six years on retains the quirkiness and charisma that stood it apart at launch, and it can still hold its head high among the current EV crop.

Verdict

The MG ZS Essence Turbo has a lot going for it. It’s keenly priced, well equipped, spacious and comfortable with good performance, refinement and safety. On the downside, it’s thirstier than it should be, despite a stonking 10-year warranty servicing is relatively pricey and there are some low-level quality concerns. But should it be on your $30-35K small SUV shopping list. One hundred per cent, yes.

BMW I3 vs MG ZS What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BMW I3 vs MG ZS
What's the difference?