MG ZS vs Toyota Camry

What's the difference?

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.

The Toyota Camry is one of the few cars that really needs no introduction. It's been on our shores for 41 years and has proven itself to be steadfastly popular, enough for Toyota to launch a ninth-generation version.

The entry grade Ascent is one of the few 'base-models' still available for the mid-sized sedan segment and offers an upgraded hybrid powertrain and transmission, new tech and a fresh take on its design.

Old fans will love it and in this review we discover if there's something for families to get excited about.