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MG ZS vs Toyota Yaris Cross comparison

Compare performance (197 HP vs 130 HP), boot space and price (18,000 £ vs 23,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – MG ZS or Toyota Yaris Cross?

MG ZS vs Toyota Yaris Cross: Key differences

MG ZS

4.5 (5 Reviews)
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  • noticeably cheaper
  • markedly more power
  • markedly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • slightly more trunk space
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Toyota Yaris Cross

4.2 (18 Reviews)
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  • slightly more efficient
  • moderately lighter
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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 Toyota Yaris Cross — which small SUV fits your day-to-day life?

MG ZS vs Toyota Yaris Cross is a matchup between two compact SUVs that approach the same brief very differently: the MG ZS pursues space, oomph and value, while the Toyota Yaris Cross prioritises efficiency, refinement and everyday polish. The MG ZS arrives with a more forceful hybrid setup and a generous equipment list that undercuts many rivals on price. The Toyota Yaris Cross answers with a quieter, more economical hybrid package and a tidier cabin experience after recent updates. This comparison teases out the practical consequences of those choices so you can decide which compromises matter most to your routine.

Yaris Cross

Character and driving feel

The MG ZS drives with a noticeably livelier personality — it gets moving with vigour and never feels underpowered when you need to overtake or merge, which makes it feel confident in mixed suburban driving. That stronger response comes with a firmer chassis and a less muffled engine note under load, so the ZS can feel industrious rather than hushed. The Toyota Yaris Cross is more restrained: its hybrid system biases smooth, efficient progress and a softer, more automatic-like delivery that soothes urban traffic but sacrifices outright urge. If you prefer a car that feels eager and strong off the line, the MG leans towards that; if you want calm, predictable progress and lower running fuss, the Yaris Cross leans the other way.

ZS

Comfort and long-distance behavior

On short trips both cars are comfortable, but differences become obvious on long runs: the MG ZS’s firmer suspension keeps body control tight but transmits more imperfections and tyre roar, which can tire occupants on long motorway legs. The Toyota Yaris Cross typically feels more settled and quieter at cruising speeds, benefitting from updated soundproofing, though it still isn’t whisper-quiet under heavy acceleration. Wheel and trim choices amplify these effects — larger wheels make either car feel harsher — so the Yaris Cross’s advantage holds best on lower-spec setups. Put simply, for frequent motorway miles the Toyota skews toward long‑distance refinement, while the MG rewards those who prioritise composure in town and brisk responses over plush ride isolation.

Yaris Cross

Cabin feel and perceived quality

Step inside and the contrast is clear: the MG ZS offers a roomy, straightforward interior with durable plastics and functional switchgear that underline value rather than luxury. Toyota’s cabin presents cleaner surfaces, tighter seams and a more consistently thought‑out ergonomics package, which gives the Yaris Cross a more reassuring, upmarket impression. The MG balances its simpler materials with a long warranty and lots of standard tech, so you feel well equipped if not pampered. If touch‑and‑finish matter to you every day, the Yaris Cross feels the more composed choice; if you prioritise kit and peace of mind over soft finishes, the MG makes a persuasive practical case.

ZS

Practicality and everyday usability

Practical differences in daily life favour the MG ZS if you often carry passengers or luggage: rear legroom is more generous and the boot is easier to live with for family trips, so fitting child seats and weekend bags feels less like a compromise. The Toyota Yaris Cross packs smart luggage solutions and a compact footprint that makes city parking and manoeuvring easier, and its hybrid system rewards stop-start urban runs with noticeably lower fuel use. The Toyota’s optional all‑wheel drive is a real plus for winter or rural buyers, but it comes at the expense of storage space. In short, choose the MG for space-first family practicality, and the Yaris Cross for city-focused efficiency and occasional off‑piste confidence.

Yaris Cross

Who should pick which car — buyer fit and trade-offs

For budget-minded families and buyers who prioritise rear space, a punchier hybrid feel and a long warranty, the MG ZS is the pragmatic pick that delivers more room and equipment for less cash. For commuters and small-family buyers who value the lowest running costs, a quieter cruising experience and a tidier cabin with modern connectivity, the Toyota Yaris Cross is the smarter daily driver. Neither car is flawless: the MG asks you to accept a firmer ride and simpler materials, while the Yaris Cross asks you to live with a tighter rear seat and a higher buying price for the same kit level. The detailed technical comparison that follows will unpack how those trade‑offs translate into emissions, cargo numbers and performance so you can match the figures to the life you actually lead.

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Choosing between the Toyota C-HR and the Toyota Yaris Cross comes down to whether you prefer the C-HR’s sharper styling and firmer, more engaging ride or the Yaris Cross’s roomier practicality and better efficiency. I’ll compare their driving feel, interior comfort, fuel economy, and features to …
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

ZS

Costs and Efficiency:

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

MG ZS is noticeably cheaper – starting at 18,000 £ , while the Toyota Yaris Cross costs 23,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,700 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota Yaris Cross uses 4.5 L/100km and is slightly more efficient than the MG ZS with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 0.6 L/100km.

Yaris Cross

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 130 HP. That’s roughly 67 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is markedly quicker – completing the sprint in 8.7 s, while the Toyota Yaris Cross takes 10.7 s. That’s about 2 s quicker.

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.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Toyota Yaris Cross is moderately lighter – 1,180 kg compared to 1,330 kg. The difference is around 150 kg.

Looking at boot space, the MG ZS offers slightly more boot space – 443 L compared to 397 L. That’s a difference of about 46 L.

When it comes to payload, the Toyota Yaris Cross carries only 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 MG ZS 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 £18,000
ZS

MG ZS

  • Engine Type Petrol, Full Hybrid
  • Transmission Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 197 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
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MG ZS
Toyota Yaris Cross

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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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
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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.

Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross blends the maneuverability of a small hatch with the higher driving position and practicality of a crossover, wrapped in Toyota's dependable build quality. It suits urban buyers who need easy parking, flexible cargo space and a comfortable, economical daily driver.

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Reviews Toyota Yaris Cross

4.2 (18 Reviews)
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Dee
17 Jun 2026, 07:41:32

It's a shame the 12V battery lets you down and you always have to carry a jumper. Fairly noisy, otherwise a good car.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
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Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
E.W
24 May 2026, 21:51:54

I want to choose the Yaris Cross because it’s cheaper per month than the ID3 and because of the high step-in of the Yaris — we’re in our late 70s.

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
Oleh G
22 Apr 2026, 19:47:57

It would be desirable to improve its sound/noise insulation, increase the trunk capacity, add more power for the high beams, and offer more accessories.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
claudio
26 Mar 2026, 13:45:30

After several cars from the VW Group and a long search, I chose the Yaris Cross — also because of the unusual gearbox.

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
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Peter
25 Dec 2025, 21:05:44

I've had the car since April, and so far I'm giving it a 5.

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

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The Toyota Yaris Cross brings SUV practicality and a higher ride height to the compact Yaris packaging, while the Toyota Yaris remains a nimble, city-focused hatchback. If you value extra space, versatility and a more commanding driving position, the Yaris Cross is worth a look; if you prioritize …
MG ZS
Toyota Yaris Cross

Costs and Consumption
Price
18,000 - 24,000 £
Price
23,700 - 34,300 £
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 4.8 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
115 - 145 g/km
co2
101 - 108 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,330 - 1,420 kg
Curb weight
1,180 - 1,290 kg
Trunk capacity
443 L
Trunk capacity
320 - 397 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,818 mm
Width
1,765 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
375 - 470 kg
Payload
485 - 510 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Power HP
116 - 130 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.7 - 11.3 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
148 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Power kW
85 - 96 kW
Engine capacity
1,495 - 1,498 cm3
Engine capacity
1,490 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
Brand
MG
Brand
Toyota
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.