Toyota C-HR vs MG ZS EV
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Toyota C-HR starts from $38,990 before on-road costs, while the MG ZS EV opens at $43,990. That makes the Toyota C-HR the more affordable entry point by $5,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $42,889 and $48,389 respectively.
The MG ZS EV qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Toyota C-HR, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the MG ZS EV by roughly $2,380 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Toyota C-HR stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the MG ZS EV. The MG ZS EV counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Toyota C-HR uses a Petrol producing 112kW and 188Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.2 seconds.
The MG ZS EV responds with a Electric Motor making 115kW and 280Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds.
The MG ZS EV has the clear power advantage at 115kW vs 112kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota C-HR measures 4,360mm long on a 2,640mm wheelbase, 37mm longer than the MG ZS EV at 4,323mm (2,585mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Toyota C-HR generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 318L in the Toyota C-HR and 359L in the MG ZS EV, giving the MG ZS EV a 41L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m diameter
Good
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,340/year for the Toyota C-HR and $864/year for the MG ZS EV. That is a $476 annual difference in favour of the MG ZS EV.
Estimated annual total: $1,340 (Toyota C-HR) vs $864 (MG ZS EV). The MG ZS EV saves you roughly $476 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota C-HR) vs 10 years / 999,999km (MG ZS EV). The MG ZS EV has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota C-HR if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG ZS EV if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG ZS EV takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. The MG ZS EV will save you roughly $476 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the MG ZS EV has a clear edge. The MG ZS EV adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota C-HR and MG ZS EV?
The Toyota C-HR is the cheapest at $38,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG ZS EV by $5,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota C-HR uses the least fuel at 4.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota C-HR all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The MG ZS EV has the largest boot at 359L.
Which can tow the most?
The Toyota C-HR has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,200kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG ZS EV has the longest warranty at 10 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG ZS EV makes the most power at 115kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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