@ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
@ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center
VS

MG ZS vs SEAT Ateca – Differences & prices compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether MG ZS or SEAT Ateca fits your lifestyle better.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

The Battle of Modern SUVs: MG ZS vs SEAT Ateca

The SUV segment continues to dominate the automotive world, with manufacturers constantly vying for innovation and performance. Two such contestants in the fray are the MG ZS and the SEAT Ateca. Both models offer unique propositions for prospective buyers, making the choice between them a compelling discussion. Let’s dive deeper into the technicalities and innovations these vehicles bring to the table.

Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Design and Dimensions

The design philosophies of MG ZS and SEAT Ateca showcase distinct characteristics aligned with modern aesthetics. The MG ZS presents a compact yet dynamic appearance, with an overall length of 4,323 mm and a width of 1,809 mm. It stands tall at 1,649 mm, reflecting a robust and commanding presence. On the other hand, the SEAT Ateca stretches slightly longer at 4,381 mm, and stands wider at 1,841 mm, while its height is slightly lesser at 1,601 mm, offering a sportier profile.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

Powertrains and Performance

The MG ZS offers an array of engine configurations, including electric, full hybrid, and petrol options. Noteworthy is its electric variant boasting an impressive range of 320 to 440 km on a single charge, with a battery capacity that varies from 49.3 kWh to 65.7 kWh. The petrol versions provide power outputs ranging from 116 to 197 HP, with a torque high of 280 Nm, encapsulating versatility and power. Furthermore, its acceleration achieves 0-100 km/h in a commendable 8.6 - 8.7 seconds.

In contrast, the SEAT Ateca largely depends on traditional petrol and diesel engines, with power outputs of 116 to 150 HP. Diesel efficiency comes into play with consumption figures hovering between 4.9 to 6.4 L/100 km. It isn't just frugal on fuel; the Ateca also brings brisk performance to the table, clocking 0-100 km/h in 9 to 11 seconds, with torque peaks reaching up to 360 Nm.

Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Transmission and Drive Dynamics

Transmission wise, the MG ZS provides a flexible choice between manual and automatic options across most configurations. A unique reduction gearbox is featured in its electric variant for seamless power delivery. Its front-wheel-drive mechanism ensures a balanced ride, catering to the needs of both urban and highway settings.

The SEAT Ateca opts for a manual gearbox along with the advanced dual-clutch automatic transmission, tailored for efficiency and precision. Like the ZS, it also employs a front-wheel-drive system, ensuring it holds its ground across diverse driving conditions.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers and provide ample cargo space. The MG ZS offers trunk capacity options of 443 to 448 liters, while the Ateca surpasses with a voluminous 510 liters. This factor makes the Ateca an attractive option for those needing extra luggage space without compromising passenger comfort.

Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Eco Ratings and Efficiency

On the environmental front, the MG ZS excels with a variety of CO2 efficiency classes, ranging from A to C depending on the model, with emissions as low as 0 g/km for the electric variant. Meanwhile, the SEAT Ateca manages a CO2 efficiency class between D and E, with emissions ranging from 129 to 144 g/km. It’s clear that MG takes the lead in sustainability, especially with its electric options.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

Conclusion

Choosing between the MG ZS and SEAT Ateca largely depends on what the buyer prioritizes. The MG ZS stands out as a versatile model with sustainable options and innovative technology, making it a prime candidate for the eco-conscious driver. Alternatively, if one prioritizes sporty design and additional cargo space, the SEAT Ateca makes a compelling case with its robust build and strong performance credentials.

Ultimately, both models hold strong in today's competitive SUV market, offering distinct benefits that cater to diverse lifestyles and preferences. Whether it's the technical innovation of the MG ZS or the practicality of the SEAT Ateca, each provides a unique driving experience that will appeal to different facets of the automotive enthusiast.

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

Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Efficiency:

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

MG ZS has a noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 18000 £, while the SEAT Ateca costs 25100 £. That’s a price difference of around 7114 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: SEAT Ateca manages with 4.90 L and is therefore minimal more efficient than the MG ZS with 5 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.

ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation

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 has a distinct edge – offering 197 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 47 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 8.70 s, while the SEAT Ateca takes 9 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the SEAT Ateca performs somewhat better – reaching 202 km/h, while the MG ZS tops out at 179 km/h. The difference is around 23 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: SEAT Ateca pulls decisively stronger with 360 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 212 Nm difference.

Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, MG ZS is minimal lighter – 1330 kg compared to 1345 kg. The difference is around 15 kg.

In terms of boot space, the SEAT Ateca offers to a small extent more room – 510 L compared to 443 L. That’s a difference of about 67 L.

In maximum load capacity, the SEAT Ateca performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1604 L, which is about 147 L more than the MG ZS.

When it comes to payload, SEAT Ateca to a small extent takes the win – 525 kg compared to 470 kg. That’s a difference of about 55 kg.

Who wins the race?

The SEAT Ateca proves to be won narrowly and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
SEAT Ateca is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £25,100
Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

SEAT Ateca

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Diesel
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 150 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.9 - 6.4 L

MG ZS

5 (1)
rate

The MG ZS arrives as a cheeky and practical choice for shoppers who want SUV style and family-friendly space without blowing the budget. It may not pretend to be premium, but with sensible equipment, easy-to-live-with driving manners and surprising value, it makes a persuasive case for anyone after sensible transport with a bit of personality.

details

SEAT Ateca

5 (1)
rate

The SEAT Ateca blends sharp, purposeful styling with practical space that turns everyday errands into something a bit more enjoyable. It’s poised and engaging to drive for its segment, offers solid value, and has just enough personality to make you smile on the school run.

details
MG ZS
SEAT Ateca
ZS @ MG Motor / SAIC Motor Corporation
Ateca @ SEAT S.A. / SEAT Media Center

Costs and Consumption

Price
18000 - 24000 £
Price
25100 - 36900 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 6.5 L
Consumption L/100km
4.9 - 6.4 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
113 - 145 g/km
co2
129 - 144 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
41 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
50 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1330 - 1420 kg
Curb weight
1345 - 1514 kg
Trunk capacity
443 L
Trunk capacity
510 L
Length
4430 mm
Length
4381 mm
Width
1818 mm
Width
1841 mm
Height
1635 mm
Height
1601 mm
Max trunk capacity
1457 L
Max trunk capacity
1604 L
Payload
375 - 470 kg
Payload
516 - 525 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Power HP
116 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 11 s
Max Speed
168 - 179 km/h
Max Speed
183 - 202 km/h
Torque
148 Nm
Torque
200 - 360 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Power kW
85 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1495 - 1498 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1968 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, E
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D
Brand
MG
Brand
SEAT
What drive types are available for the MG ZS?

The MG ZS is available as Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.