The MG ZS and the Dacia Duster are two of the most affordable and popular compact SUVs in the European market. Both offer spacious interiors, practical features, and decent performance for a low price. But which one is a better buy for you? We will compare the fundamental differences between the MG ZS and the Dacia Duster in terms of design, engine, safety, technology, and price.
Design
The MG ZS and the Dacia Duster have different design philosophies. The MG ZS is more modern and stylish, with a sleek front grille, LED headlights, and alloy wheels. The Dacia Duster is more rugged and robust, with a boxy shape, roof rails, and plastic cladding. The MG ZS has a slightly longer wheelbase (2585 mm vs 2673 mm) and a higher ground clearance (164 mm vs 210 mm) than the Dacia Duster. The MG ZS also has a larger boot capacity (448 liters vs 411 liters) and a more spacious rear seat.
The interior of the MG ZS is more refined and comfortable than the Dacia Duster. The MG ZS budget SUV has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Dacia Duster has a simpler dashboard, a 3.5-inch LCD display, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The MG ZS also has more storage space, cup holders, and USB ports than the Dacia Duster.
Engine
The MG ZS and the Dacia Duster have different engine options. The MG ZS offers two petrol engines: a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 106 hp and 141 Nm of torque and a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 111 hp and 160 Nm of torque. The Dacia Duster offers three petrol engines: a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 90 hp and 160 Nm of torque, a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 130 hp and 240 Nm of torque, and a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 150 hp and 250 Nm of torque.
The MG ZS also offers an electric version called the MG ZS EV, which has a 44.5 kWh battery pack that powers a 105 kW electric motor that produces 143 hp and 353 Nm of torque. The MG ZS EV can travel up to 263 km on a single charge and can be recharged to 80% in 40 minutes using a fast charger.
The MG ZS and the Dacia Duster have different transmission options as well. The MG ZS comes with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox, while the Dacia Duster comes with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The MG ZS is only available in front-wheel drive, while the Dacia Duster offers both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.