What do the MG ZS and Proton X50 have in common? Well, one of them could be both B-segment SUVs attaining a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating but that’s where the similarity stops.

According to a report published by the South East Asian safety body, the MG ZS scored a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating but its overall score of 81 points out of 100 puts it closer to the bottom among the vehicles that are rated 5-stars.

Rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Nissan Kicks, and Proton X50 have higher overall scores at 88.61 points, 86.93 points, and 84.26 points respectively.

The MG ZS is the second MG model tested by ASEAN NCAP. The first MG model was the MG 3 which only received 2-stars. Talk about a big improvement.

Based on the data, the MG ZS offers good protection overall to the front occupants, although there is some adequate protection for the front passenger’s torso and marginal protection for the driver’s chest.

The MG ZS tested is the Thai- and Vietnamese-spec model which is equipped with ABS, ESC, and seatbelt reminders for the front occupants as standard. The ZS is also equipped with at least 2 airbags in both markets. Based on this assessment, ASEAN NCAP gave the British-Chinese crossover 81 points which translates to a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating.

The MG ZS saw some popularity among Thais but can this success be emulated in Malaysia when it gets launched in 2021?