Chinese car makers are making inroads here – in the past we’ve had some fairly average product from them but the quality is quickly ramping up and today we’re seeing some very much improved vehicles. The small MG ZS Essence SUV is a case in point.  MG, once Britain’s sports car maker, was purchased by the Chinese some years ago – with this vehicle Made in China no longer means cheap and cheerful. The MG ZS Essence left me impressed on many scores – at $26,490 drive-away, good looking with excellent interior room and fit and finish and choice of materials, the 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic a nice performer with good economy, the ride quality excellent while the features list is as long as your arm – frankly, it looks and feels more like a Mazda. Apart from a 4-star crash safety rating there’s little to criticise. Little wonder MG is enjoying very strong growth in the market – I’m David Berthon.

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