MG ZST vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

MG ZST

$14,000 - $24,990

2024 price

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Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Summary

2024 MG ZST

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Emily Agar

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.3L

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Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

7.3L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

Happy little price tag
Good features list
Nice kerb-side presence

Well-equipped
Massive range boost for PHEV
Fun and engaging to drive

Dislikes

Tech needs improving
Upholstery/trims feel plasticky
Rivals have brand new five-star ANCAP ratings

Small boot in PHEV
Formentor S runs out of puff
Lots of tyre roar

2024 MG ZST Summary

The ZST is essentially an upgraded version of MG's popular small SUV, the ZS.

The ZST sees some tweaks to the overall design and some added standard safety features. So, if you like the original, there's a good chance you'll like the ZST and I've been driving the top-grade Essence variant with my family of three.

The ZST Essence has some stiff competition from similarly specified rivals like the GWM Haval Jolion Lux and Chery Omoda 5 EX offering affordable packages and similar driving experiences. So, what makes the ZST stand out?

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2026 Cupra Formentor Summary

We’ve waited more than two years and it’s finally here.

Cupra has introduced the updated version of its most popular car in Australia, the Formentor.

A spicy small SUV rival to the likes of the Mini Countryman, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, among others, this design-led small SUV is now offered in more flavours than ever before.

It’s our first time testing out this updated Formentor on local soil, so read on to see how it stacks up.

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Deep dive comparison

2024 MG ZST 2026 Cupra Formentor

Verdict

Will the MG ZST Essence fit a small family? Absolutely, and all but the middle seat passenger will be comfortable but there are areas open for improvement. Like it's safety, laggy tech and adding a few extra items in the back seat.

Yet, it still offers a good host of features and an attractive package for a reasonable price tag. Unfortunately, my son missed having the basic amenities but did like the sun roof.

Verdict

It’s clear that Cupra has listened to feedback as this updated Formentor addresses many key criticisms of the pre-update car. Overall it makes it easier to live with and to recommend than before.

Although the VZe's updated PHEV powertrain offers double the amount of electric range, the V forms as a sweet spot of the line-up as it offers all the power and equipment you'd ever need. It's hard to look past the top-spec VZx though as power is a drug.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

MG ZST vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

MG ZST vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?