Suzuki Ignis vs MG ZST
What's the difference?

Suzuki Ignis

$10,990 - $20,990

2021 price

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MG ZST

$14,000 - $24,990

2024 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Summary

2021 Suzuki Ignis

2024 MG ZST

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.2L

Turbo 3, 1.3L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

4.9L/100km (combined)

7.3L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Striking design
Superb agility
Ease of operation

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

Dislikes

No AEB, DAB+ and telescopic steering
Stiff ride, noisy cabin
Poor EuroNCAP crash-test rating

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

2021 Suzuki Ignis Summary

Welcome to one of the world’s tiniest SUVs, as well as amongst Australia’s cheapest – Suzuki’s diminutive Ignis.

There’s an Aussie connection. Holden designer Peter Hughes styled the original YG Cruze based on the first (FH) Ignis of 2000, with both models sharing most components underneath; but the latter was not well received, prompting Suzuki to change tack for its reborn Swift replacement of 2004. Yet the name and concept were revived 11 years later (without GMH) for the retro-themed high-riding hatch/crossover you see here today.

The point? This quick history lesson serves to remind us how similar both Ignis generations are, as well as how devoted Suzuki is in its pursuit of owning the light SUV space.

In June 2020, a facelifted MF arrived, brandishing a revised grille, bumpers and trim to give it a chunkier appearance, along with minor spec changes.

Here we take a long look at the GLX auto.

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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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Deep dive comparison

2021 Suzuki Ignis 2024 MG ZST

Verdict

With statement styling, inherent agility, excellent efficiency, proven reliability, high equipment levels and low entry pricing, the 2021 Ignis GLX is in danger of becoming a mandatory short-list proposition for people seeking fun and affordable motoring.

But undermining all that is a distinct lack of driver-assist safety tech that can’t be – and shouldn’t be – ignored. At least give buyers the option of paying more for essentials like AEB.

If Suzuki can address this shortfall, the Ignis would join its excellent Swift supermini stablemate in being a very compelling and enjoyable compact urban runabout. We hope this happens sooner rather than later.

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.

Suzuki Ignis vs MG ZST What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Suzuki Ignis vs MG ZST
What's the difference?