MG ZST vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?

MG ZST

$14,000 - $24,990

2024 price

View pricing & specs

Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2024 MG ZST

2026 Mazda CX-5

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.3L

Inline 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

7.3L/100km (combined)

7.4L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

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

Comfortable, dynamic drive
Practical family interior
Strong safety package

Dislikes

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

No hybrid option
Engine can feel sluggish
No rear charging ports

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?

View full pricing & specs

2026 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

View full pricing & specs

Interested in a Mazda CX-5?

Deep dive comparison

2024 MG ZST 2026 Mazda CX-5

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

The Mazda CX-5 Evolve kicks some goals and with its comfortable on-road handling, robust safety equipment and practical interior, it’s still a solid choice for families looking for a mid-sized SUV. The only thing it’s missing is a hybrid powertrain, which would make this already well-rounded package even more compelling.

MG ZST vs Mazda CX-5 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

MG ZST vs Mazda CX-5
What's the difference?