MG ZS EV vs VW Polo 1.0 TSI: Which Should You Buy in 2025?

Considering switching to an EV? This comprehensive comparison between the MG ZS EV and the VW Polo 1.0 TSI will help you make the right decision for your wallet and lifestyle in South Africa.

📊 Quick Comparison Overview

💰 The Real Cost: 5-Year Ownership Analysis

Here’s where electric vehicles shine. While the MG ZS EV costs R650,000 upfront compared to the VW Polo 1.0 TSI’s R400,000, the total cost of ownership tells a different story.

Fuel Costs Breakdown

• MG ZS EV electricity cost: R12,143/year = R60,714 over 5 years
• VW Polo 1.0 TSI petrol cost: R16,215/year = R81,075 over 5 years
• Fuel savings with EV: R20,361 over 5 years

Maintenance Costs

• MG ZS EV: R15,000 (minimal – no oil changes, less brake wear)
• VW Polo 1.0 TSI: R40,000 (regular servicing, oil, filters, etc.)
• Maintenance savings with EV: R25,000

🎯 Who Should Buy the MG ZS EV?

The MG ZS EV is perfect for you if:

• 💰 Budget-conscious long-term: Save R-3,411 per month on running costs
• 🏠 Home charging available: Wake up to a “full tank” every morning for just R1,012/month
• 🌆 City/suburban driving: Perfect for the 320km range on a single charge
• 🔧 Low maintenance priority: No oil changes, no exhaust systems, minimal brake wear
• 🌍 Environmental responsibility: Zero tailpipe emissions in SA’s cities
• ⚡ Modern technology: Latest infotainment, over-the-air updates, advanced safety features

🎯 Who Should Buy the VW Polo 1.0 TSI?

The VW Polo 1.0 TSI makes sense if:

• 💵 Lower upfront cost needed: R250,000 cheaper to purchase
• ⛽ Long-distance flexibility: Refuel anywhere in 5 minutes with petrol stations everywhere
• 🚗 Heavy towing/off-road: 1.0L engine provides proven capability
• 📍 Rural/remote areas: No charging infrastructure concerns
• 🔋 No home charging option: Petrol stations remain more accessible for now
• 👴 Familiar technology: Comfortable with traditional vehicle ownership

💡 Key Decision Factors

Choose the MG ZS EV if you:

• ✅ Drive less than 320km per day on average
• ✅ Have access to home charging or workplace charging
• ✅ Want to save R-3,411 per month on running costs
• ✅ Prioritize lower maintenance and running costs
• ✅ Want zero tailpipe emissions
• ✅ Can manage the higher upfront cost

Choose the VW Polo 1.0 TSI if you:

• ✅ Need maximum flexibility for long-distance travel
• ✅ Don’t have reliable charging access
• ✅ Drive more than 320km daily
• ✅ Need to minimize upfront costs
• ✅ Prefer the familiarity of petrol stations
• ✅ Live in an area with limited charging infrastructure

🔋 Charging Infrastructure in South Africa

South Africa’s EV charging network is growing rapidly, with over 500 public charging points nationwide. Major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria have excellent coverage.

Home charging is the game-changer: Installing a home charger (R15,000-R30,000) gives you a “full tank” every morning at a fraction of petrol costs.

📈 Long-Term Value

Over 5 years of ownership (15,000km/year):

• Total savings with MG ZS EV: R-204,639
• Monthly savings: R-3,411
• Cost per kilometer – MG ZS EV: R9.68
• Cost per kilometer – VW Polo 1.0 TSI: R6.95

🌍 Environmental Impact

By choosing the MG ZS EV over the VW Polo 1.0 TSI, you’ll prevent approximately 8,143kg of CO₂ from entering the atmosphere over 5 years.

🏁 The Verdict

It’s Close: Consider Your Priorities

The cost difference is relatively small – just R-204,639 over 5 years (R-3,411/month). Your decision should be based on lifestyle factors:

• Choose the MG ZS EV if environmental impact and modern technology matter to you
• Choose the VW Polo 1.0 TSI if maximum flexibility and lower upfront cost are priorities

Both are solid choices at this price point.

💰 Calculate Your Own Savings

Want to see how much you could save based on your specific driving habits? Use our EV Cost Savings Calculator to input your exact annual kilometers, electricity rate, and more.

🚗 Ready to Make the Switch?

Need help installing a home charger for your new EV? Get a free quote for professional EV charger installation anywhere in South Africa.

Last updated: December 2025