Discover the all-new MG ZS 2026, Australia’s most affordable compact SUV featuring ADAS safety tech and an electronic gear shift. Learn more now!
MG Motor Australia has re‑introduced the MG ZS Vibe for the 2026 model year, positioning it as one of the cheapest compact cross‑overs on the market. With a starting price of AU$22,990 (about 416 million VND), the new ZS Vibe aims to undercut rivals while still offering modern safety and convenience features.
Why the MG ZS Vibe Matters
The ZS Vibe is the entry‑level trim of the MG ZS line‑up. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5 L gasoline engine delivering roughly 109 hp and 140 Nm of torque. The power reaches the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing a smooth, low‑maintenance driving experience.
Pricing Strategy that Turns Heads
Priced at AU$22,990 during the introductory promotion (the discount is expected to end by late February 2026, after which the price may settle around AU$24,350), the ZS Vibe is nearly AU$1,000 cheaper than a comparable Chery Tiggo 4. It also rides below the price points of other popular small SUVs in Australia such as the Mahindra XUV 3XO and Hyundai Kona.
Standard Equipment – High Tech on a Budget
Even at the low price, MG does not skimp on technology. Standard fitments include:
- 10.25‑inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Electronic gear lever (shift‑by‑wire)
- Electronic parking brake
- Active safety suite (ADAS) featuring Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane‑Departure Warning and Lane‑Keeping Assist
- Rear‑view camera plus rear parking sensors
Premium touches such as LED headlights, automatic climate control, leather seats, and a digital driver’s display are reserved for higher‑spec variants.
Market Position and Future Outlook
MG Motor Australia says the return of the ZS Vibe strengthens the brand’s foothold in the competitive budget‑SUV segment. The 2026 ZS range will also offer turbo‑charged, hybrid, and the new low‑cost version, giving buyers a wider choice of powertrains.
While the global launch of the refreshed MG ZS occurred in August 2024, the older generation still sells in Vietnam. MG Vietnam has not announced plans to import the 2026 model yet, leaving Australian pricing and feature decisions as the most current reference for prospective buyers.
Key Takeaways
- AU$22,990 launch price – one of the cheapest compact SUVs in Australia
- Standard ADAS suite and electronic gear shift at entry level
- 1.5 L engine paired with CVT, front‑wheel drive
- Limited premium features; higher trims add LED lighting, leather, and digital cockpit
- Promotion ends late February 2026; price likely to adjust upward
For shoppers seeking an affordable, technology‑rich SUV in Australia, the MG ZS 2026 Vibe presents a compelling blend of price and safety.