VS

BMW 1 Series vs MG ZS comparison

Compare performance (300 HP vs 197 HP), boot space and price (29,400 £ vs 18,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW 1 Series or MG ZS?

BMW 1 Series vs MG ZS: Key differences

BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • noticeably more power
  • slightly more efficient
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
details

MG ZS

4.4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly cheaper
  • moderately lighter
  • somewhat more trunk space
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

1 Series

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

MG ZS is significantly cheaper – starting at 18,000 £ , while the BMW 1 Series costs 29,400 £ . That’s a price difference of around 11,366 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW 1 Series uses 4.3 L/100km and is slightly more efficient than the MG ZS with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 0.8 L/100km.

ZS

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW 1 Series offers noticeably more power – delivering 300 HP compared to 197 HP. That’s roughly 103 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 1 Series is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.9 s, while the MG ZS takes 8.7 s. That’s about 3.8 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BMW 1 Series delivers clearly more torque with 400 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 252 Nm more.

1 Series

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, MG ZS is moderately lighter – 1,330 kg compared to 1,465 kg. The difference is around 135 kg.

Looking at boot space, the MG ZS offers somewhat more boot space – 443 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 63 L.

When it comes to payload, the BMW 1 Series carries very slightly more – 510 kg compared to 470 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW 1 Series is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £29,400
1 Series

BMW 1 Series

  • Engine Type : Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 300 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
details

Frequently compared as well

MG ZS
Omoda 5
VS
The MG ZS and Omoda 5 are two popular compact SUVs that target value-conscious buyers with generous equipment and modern styling. This comparison cuts through the marketing to show how they differ in interior space, build quality, driving dynamics and running costs so you can pick the one that fits …
MG MG3
MG ZS
VS
Choosing between the compact MG3 hatchback and the larger MG ZS crossover comes down to whether you prioritise city-friendly agility and low running costs or interior space and practicality. This comparison covers driving character, equipment, fuel economy and ownership costs to help you pick the …
BMW 1 Series
MG ZS

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series is a compact premium hatchback that injects a proper sense of driving fun into everyday life, with sharp handling and a cabin that punches above its class. It’s a great pick for buyers who want sporty manners without losing practicality, and yes, you’ll still get that unmistakable BMW grin behind the wheel.

details
P90460899_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460903_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460910_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460951_highRes_additional-pictures-
P90460954_highRes_additional-pictures-

Reviews BMW 1 Series

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

MG ZS

The MG ZS is a compact crossover that delivers strong value with a roomy cabin and straightforward tech, making it a sensible choice for budget-minded buyers. It’s easy to live with, offering comfortable rides and a practical layout that suits daily commutes and family errands.

details
MG-ZS-EV-dynamic
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-07
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-21
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-luxury_interior
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-16

Reviews MG ZS

4.4 (4 Reviews)
rate
Ahmed
30 Sept 2025, 14:05:11

With all the features it offers at that price, the MG has no competition. A BMW X1 of similar dimensions with a few extra upgrades costs more than twice as much, and considering that 40% of MG’s spare parts come from Germany (Bosch, Continental, etc.), I’d go for the MG ZS Hybrid without a second thought.

Frequently compared as well

MG ZS
Nissan Qashqai
VS
Cheap and cheerful, the MG ZS punches above its price with a roomy, gadget-heavy cabin and surprisingly sprightly electric options, while the Nissan Qashqai feels more grown-up — quieter, better driven and tougher to fault on long motorway runs. Pick the ZS if you want maximum kit for your money; …
Ford Kuga
MG ZS
VS
The Ford Kuga and MG ZS are compact SUVs that both promise practicality and value, but they target different priorities: the Kuga leans toward sharper handling, a more refined cabin and a wider range of powertrains, while the ZS focuses on affordability and simple, roomy practicality. Choose the …
Kia Sportage
MG ZS
VS
The Kia Sportage and MG ZS are compact SUVs aimed at buyers who want practical, everyday family transport—each offers a different mix of comfort, technology and value. This quick comparison shows how the Sportage’s more refined ride and stronger engine choices compare with the ZS’s budget-friendly …
MG ZS
Nissan Juke
VS
Comparing the MG ZS and the Nissan Juke pits a practical, value-oriented small SUV (the MG ZS) against a more stylised, compact crossover with sharper driving character (the Nissan Juke). This quick guide highlights how they differ in space, equipment, engines and running costs so you can pick the …
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series
VS
In the competitive world of luxury hatchbacks, the BMW 1er Reihe and BMW 2er Reihe stand out with distinct offerings that cater to different niche preferences. The BMW 1er, known for its agile handling and compact design, provides an engaging driving experience perfect for urban environments. …
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
VS
The BMW 1 Series is a compact, driver-focused hatchback that emphasises sharper handling and a sportier feel, while the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a practical compact MPV designed around interior space, accessibility and family-friendly versatility. Choose the 1 Series if you prioritise engaging …
BMW 1 Series
BMW X1
VS
The BMW 1 Series and BMW X1 share BMW’s driving focus but target different needs: the 1 Series is a compact, sporty hatch that prioritises handling and driver engagement, while the X1 is a compact SUV offering higher seating, more interior space and everyday practicality. Pick the 1 Series if you …
MG ZS
MG HS
VS
The MG ZS and MG HS are closely related SUVs that target buyers seeking compact practicality and modern features without luxury-car prices. The ZS emphasises affordability and efficient urban use, while the HS offers more space, stronger engines and extra equipment, so your choice comes down to …
BMW 1 Series
MG ZS

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,400 - 51,900 £
Price
18,000 - 24,000 £
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 7.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
112 - 173 g/km
co2
115 - 145 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,465 - 1,625 kg
Curb weight
1,330 - 1,420 kg
Trunk capacity
300 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
443 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,800 mm
Width
1,818 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
475 - 510 kg
Payload
375 - 470 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
122 - 300 HP
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.9 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 400 Nm
Torque
148 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
90 - 221 kW
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
Engine capacity
1,495 - 1,498 cm3

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, F
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
BMW
Brand
MG
What drive types are available for the BMW 1 Series?

The BMW 1 Series is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.