MG’s appropriately-named ‘MG Pilot Advanced Driver Assistance System’ accurately portrays the system functionality. The promotional material and the handbook correctly indicate the limitations of the system capabilities. System status information is clearly displayed but is not in the driver’s direct line of sight. The sensing of the driver’s hands on the steering wheel was judged not to be robust, and the ZS Hybrid does not ‘lock-out’ the assistance system if there are repeated warnings. The car’s driver monitoring system detects fatigue but not distraction. The system balances driver steering input with lane guidance, promoting co-operative driving.

The ZS Hybrid combines map-based speed limit information with real time camera inputs to manage fixed, variable and temporary speed limit signs. The car responds to avoid or mitigate a collision in all of the test scenarios for automatic cruise control. The driver is supported through the S-Bend, staying within the lane at all but the highest test speed. The MG does not have a lane change assist feature. In the case of an unresponsive driver, the car does not come to a controlled stop. However, if the radar or camera is blocked, the ZS Hybrid provides a timely warning and prevents system activation.

‘MG Pilot Advanced Driver Assistance System’, as fitted to the MG ZS Hybrid, offers a good balance between Driver Engagement and Vehicle Assistance, although neither scores very highly. Combined with similarly modest level of Safety Back-Up, the system, overall, offers Moderate highway assistance.