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MG ZS vs Vauxhall Frontera comparison

Compare performance (197 HP vs 145 HP), boot space and price (18,000 £ vs 20,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – MG ZS or Vauxhall Frontera?

MG ZS vs Vauxhall Frontera: Key differences

MG ZS

4.5 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat cheaper
  • markedly more power
  • marginally more efficient
  • marginally quicker 0–100 km/h
  • marginally lighter
details

Vauxhall Frontera

4.1 (7 Reviews)
rate
  • marginally 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

ZS

MG ZS VS Opel Frontera — quick take

MG ZS and the Vauxhall Frontera present two distinct answers to the same brief: an affordable compact SUV for families and commuters. The MG ZS pitches a punchy hybrid drivetrain, roomy rear seats and a long warranty that make it feel like a value-packed city‑and‑commute car. The Vauxhall Frontera leans harder into raw practicality — more usable boot space, a softer ride and even an optional seven‑seat layout on certain versions. Choosing between the MG ZS and the Vauxhall Frontera is about whether you prioritise a quieter electric‑style start and kit for the money, or maximum onboard space and everyday comfort. Both are pragmatic choices, but they do it with different compromises and different everyday rewards.

Frontera

Character and driving feel

The MG ZS comes across as the livelier of the two, with a hybrid setup that gives brisk off‑the‑line response and a generally eager feeling in town, though its chassis is tuned on the firmer side. The Vauxhall Frontera is more relaxed and deliberately undramatic: it soaks up urban bumps and suburban roads with less fuss and rewards calm progression rather than sporty inputs. Where the MG ZS feels taut and direct enough for frequent city acceleration and overtakes, the Vauxhall Frontera trades that edge for a softer, confidence‑oriented demeanor at speed. Drivers who like immediate shove and a compact footprint will enjoy the MG ZS, while those who want a forgiving, steady companion will prefer the Vauxhall Frontera.

ZS

Comfort and long‑distance behavior

On long runs the differences become tangible: the Vauxhall Frontera’s suspension and seat setup deliver a more composed, less tiring experience at motorway speeds. The MG ZS, despite its generous interior room, tends to transmit sharper inputs from rough surfaces and reveals more engine and tyre noise at higher speeds. If your week includes regular 200‑mile days, the Frontera’s quieter, more cushioned character will make those miles easier; if most of your driving is stop‑start town work and short commutes, the MG ZS’s hybrid smoothness and electric‑first launches are a big plus. In short, the MG ZS is friendlier around town and the Frontera is friendlier on long lifts and family trips.

Frontera

Practicality and family usability

Both cars are family oriented, but they organise that space differently: the MG ZS gives very good rear legroom and a sensible boot for everyday luggage, making it a strong small‑family tool. The Vauxhall Frontera pushes practicality further with a larger, more rectangular cargo area, modular floor options and an optional third row on hybrid variants for occasional extra passengers. ISOFIX access and rear comfort are strong points for both, yet the Frontera’s flexibility—especially when you need to carry bulky loads or a larger brood—clearly tips utility in its favour. If you need occasional seven‑seat flexibility or maximum boot usability, the Vauxhall Frontera is the more practical choice; if you want a roomy five‑seat hybrid with low running fuss, the MG ZS does the job neatly.

ZS

Cabin feel, tech and perceived quality

The MG ZS presents more kit for the money and an impressive warranty, but its interior finishes and connectivity choices expose its budget roots, notably with wired smartphone integration rather than seamless wireless setups. The Vauxhall Frontera keeps things even more straightforward: controls are tactile, climate functions are easy to find and the layout favours function over flair, though materials also lean basic. In day‑to‑day use the MG ZS can feel slightly more modern thanks to its driver aids and screen presence, while the Vauxhall Frontera feels reassuringly utilitarian and less fiddly. Buyers who value gadgetry and a long guarantee will appreciate the MG ZS, whereas those who prefer clear buttons and simple ergonomics will welcome the Frontera.

Frontera

Buyer fit — who should pick which

If you prioritise low purchase price, a hybrid driving character for city starts, a long warranty and strong rear passenger space, the MG ZS is the more attractive package for young families and commuting buyers. If your priority is everyday comfort, maximum usable luggage space, optional seven seats and a fuss‑free long‑distance cruiser, the Vauxhall Frontera aligns better with that brief. Consider the MG ZS when frequent urban driving and equipment per pound matter; choose the Vauxhall Frontera when interior volume and a smoother ride for passengers are decisive. Read on to the technical comparison for how those real‑world differences map to drivetrain, dimensions and equipment choices.

Frequently compared as well

Opel Frontera
Opel Mokka
VS
Comparing the Opel Frontera and the Opel Mokka highlights two very different takes on the SUV idea: the Frontera is a rugged, older off‑road capable SUV, while the Mokka is a modern compact crossover built for city life and efficiency. This short guide will walk through their real‑world strengths …
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 …

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

ZS

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

MG ZS is somewhat cheaper – starting at 18,000 £ , while the Vauxhall Frontera costs 20,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 2,743 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the MG ZS uses 5.1 L/100km and is marginally more efficient than the Vauxhall Frontera with 5.2 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.

Frontera

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 MG ZS offers markedly more power – delivering 197 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 52 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is marginally quicker – completing the sprint in 8.7 s, while the Vauxhall Frontera takes 9.1 s. That’s about 0.4 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Vauxhall Frontera delivers markedly more torque with 230 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 82 Nm more.

ZS

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Vauxhall Frontera offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, MG ZS is marginally lighter – 1,330 kg compared to 1,394 kg. The difference is around 64 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Vauxhall Frontera offers marginally more boot space – 460 L compared to 443 L. That’s a difference of about 17 L.

When it comes to payload, the Vauxhall Frontera carries moderately more – 570 kg compared to 470 kg. That’s a difference of about 100 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Vauxhall Frontera stands well ahead of its rival 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 £20,700
Frontera

Vauxhall Frontera

  • Engine Type Electric, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 110 - 145 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 5.2 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km 16.7 - 18.3 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 308 - 400 km
details
MG ZS
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

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.

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MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-07
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Reviews MG ZS

4.5 (5 Reviews)
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Constantin
9 Jun 2026, 22:34:01

I replaced my Dacia Jogger with an MG ZS Hybrid and I don't regret it.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
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.

Vauxhall Frontera

The Opel Frontera is a rugged, no-nonsense SUV that balances off-road capability with comfortable everyday driving. It offers straightforward mechanics and a practical cabin, making it a sensible choice for buyers who value durability over flash.

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NewOpelFronteraElectric (1)
NewOpelFronteraElectric (2)
NewOpelFronteraElectric (3)
NewOpelFronteraElectric (4)
NewOpelFronteraElectric (5)
NewOpelFronteraElectric (7)

Reviews Vauxhall Frontera

4.1 (7 Reviews)
rate
Pascal
5 Jun 2026, 04:10:37

A thoroughly bad cheap car. Feels like a C3 Aircross for the poor.

That's a reason to change employers! Terrible car.

It already has a nickname, "Klapperchen"

I think any Dacia is better!

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Company car / Business
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Roch
18 May 2026, 10:12:50

Automatic gearbox and certain features, like the windshield wipers that aren’t optional; the trunk capacity is larger on the 5-seat Frontera.

Wolfgang
6 May 2026, 04:24:52

I just like the Opel better (maybe only because I'm very disappointed in VW and therefore also in its subsidiaries).

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Gilbert
14 Apr 2026, 08:19:17

I bought the Opel Frontera GS 145PS after also testing the VW T‑Roc; so far I've driven about 5,800 km in it.

My purchase decision was based on the following criteria:
- modern design that stands out from the crowd
- low fuel consumption
- very good seats and plenty of space front and rear
- large, practical boot
- good performance characteristics
- very easy to get into
- simple controls, partly with physical buttons
- clear, well‑laid‑out cockpit

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
H. P.
19 Dec 2025, 13:27:19

Opel has clearly skimped here. Misaligned panel gaps, no position/parking light, patchy workmanship and ill‑fitting parts — for example the partition between the passenger footwell and the engine bay — the owner's manual is inadequate and at times reads like a fairy tale; many of the functions it describes are nowhere to be found. They simply don't exist. And the claimed fuel consumption? Even with normal driving — that is, without acceleration orgies — it's unattainable.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Frequently compared as well

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Opel Frontera
VS
Choosing between the Citroën C3 Aircross and the Opel Frontera comes down to whether you want a compact, comfort-focused crossover or a more traditionally rugged SUV. The C3 Aircross shines with clever packaging, ride comfort and economy, while the Frontera offers stronger towing, load capacity and …
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VS
If you want unashamedly rugged, the Opel Frontera still wears its rough‑and‑ready off‑road badge with chunky looks and simple, go‑anywhere mechanics, whereas the Peugeot 2008 plays the smarter, city‑first crossover with sleek styling and the tech you actually use every day. Pick the Frontera for …
Opel Frontera
Opel Grandland
VS
The Frontera feels like a bruiser from the analogue era — raw, rugged and surprisingly capable off-road, ideal if you crave adventure and don't mind a bit of mechanical charm. The Grandland, by contrast, is a slick, family-friendly crossover loaded with modern tech, efficient engines and a …
Dacia Duster
Opel Frontera
VS
The Dacia Duster is the sensible new-school pick — affordable, economical and surprisingly well packaged with modern safety and infotainment for the money; the Opel Frontera, meanwhile, is a proper old-school body-on-frame bruiser that still appeals to buyers who prize simple, rugged off-road …
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 …
Ford Puma
Opel Frontera
VS
The Ford Puma feels like a sprightly urban fox — compact, efficient and packed with modern tech, perfect if you want lively handling and low running costs for daily driving. The Opel Frontera is all rugged charm and chunky presence, built for dirt tracks and weekend hauls rather than tight city …
MG ZS
Renault Captur
VS
Comparing the MG ZS and the Captur brings together two popular small SUVs aimed at buyers who want practicality, low running costs and modern equipment. I’ll cut through the marketing to show how they differ in space, comfort, driving feel, technology and running costs so you can choose the one …
Hyundai Kona
MG ZS
VS
The Hyundai Kona and the MG ZS are compact crossovers aimed at buyers who want SUV styling in a city-friendly package. The Kona leans toward sharper handling and a more refined drive, while the ZS competes on value and generous equipment—so your priorities for driving feel, features and budget will …
MG ZS
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
Price
18,000 - 24,000 £
Price
20,700 - 30,000 £
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.2 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16.7 - 18.3 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
308 - 400 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
115 - 145 g/km
co2
0 - 118 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,330 - 1,420 kg
Curb weight
1,394 - 1,610 kg
Trunk capacity
443 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,818 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
375 - 470 kg
Payload
436 - 570 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Power HP
110 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 14.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
148 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Power kW
81 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
1,495 - 1,498 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
MG
Brand
Vauxhall
What drive types are available for the MG ZS?

The MG ZS is available as Front-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.