The MG ZS lobbed locally late last year to stake a claim on the highly competitive small SUV segment. But has the second SUV from the now Chinese-owned brand done enough to shift public perception?
Pros Excellent road manners Spritely three-pot turbo engine Industry-leading seven-year warranty Loaded with standard features Sharp pricing
Cons Four-star ANCAP rating a blot No digital speedo Noisy air-con compressor
The MG ZS has its strengths, including its relatively classy interior, decent handling and roomy rear seats. However, a Duster Dacia is cheaper to buy, more comfortable and has a bigger boot.
Pros Rear seat space Cheaper than most rivals Seven-year warranty
Cons Poor safety rating Uneconomical engines So-so performance
Fiat adds the 500X Sport to the lineup. Slotting in above the Trekking, the Sport model has a new front end with LED headlamps and a Sport badge, body-color side moldings, and a restyled rear end with twin chrome exhaust tips. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, with 19s optional. Inside, the 2020 Fiat 500X Sport features seats with added bolstering, along with simulated-suede inserts and red stitching on both the seats and the restyled, flat-bottomed steering wheel, and aluminum trim on the pedals.
Pros Punchy turbo engine, useful driver-assistance aids, distinctive design.
Cons Priced high for a subcompact SUV, small cargo capacity, cramped passenger quarters.
The 2020 Fiat 500X is a stylish alternative to mainstream models but can be cramped inside.
Pros Quirky styling Standard all-wheel-drive Comfortable ride
Cons No cheaper and more efficient FWD model Competitors offer better value Active safety tech only optional
The 2020 FIAT 500X is unranked in Subcompact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the FIAT 500X's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data.
Pros Ritzy cabin
Cons Firm seats Cramped rear quarters Tiny cargo hold