2020 MG ZS scores 5-star rating on the ASEAN NCAP for Thailand and Vietnam

The MG ZS has finally gone through the gauntlet of testing by the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) and it’s safe to say the crossover has passed with flying colors. The models tested came from the Thailand plant of MG with the vehicles being kitted out specifically for the Thai and Vietnamese markets. In terms of specifications to the 2020 ZS models that were tested were similarly equipped to those being sold here in the Philippines. Notably, the tested vehicles all came with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control, and seatbelt reminders.

The testing revealed that the MG ZS was able to get a total score of 81 out of 100, just barely giving it a 5-star safety rating. However, it is important to note, that the testing done on the vehicle was more stringent than before and utilizes the 2017 to 2020 protocols. Breaking down the score and overall rating of the ZS reveals that the MG crossover was able to score 44.82 out of 50 for Adult Occupancy Protection (AOP), 20.90 out of 25 for Child Occupancy Protection, and 15.28 out of 25 for its Safety Assist Technology. It is important to note that are other added values to each of the total scores per category that is tallied up in the final overall rating. 

The testing did reveal a small weak spot in the crossover’s design as the Frontal Impact test under the Adult Occupant Protection category revealed that protection to the chest area was marginal at best for the driver and adequate for the front passenger. However, everywhere else showcased good protection scores for the front occupants in the case of a front crash. The Side Impact test also showed good results for the vehicle with good marks all around.  

Where the MG ZS had problems in scoring was when it came to driver-assist features. Models currently being sold do not come with many such as blind-spot indicators, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and forward-collision warning. If the crossover came with these features it could have scored higher during the assessment. Nevertheless, the MG ZS ranks high as one of the safest crossovers available and on sale in the Philippine market today.