The MG CT15C is a 1,498 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine introduced in 2020 for MG's global compact vehicle lineup. It features gasoline direct injection, a single — scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This configuration produces 119 kW (161 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, with variable valve timing enabling strong low — rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the MG ZS and MG5 models globally, the CT15C was engineered for a bala…
Mg
All production years (2020–Present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards for applicable markets .
The MG CT15C is a 1,498 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact SUVs and sedans (2020-Present). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
Power output | 119 kW (161 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (Bosch) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (MHI or Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 102 kg |
The MG CT15C was developed by SAIC for use in MG's global compact vehicle platforms with transverse mounting. This engine features platform-specific calibrations for the ZS SUV and MG5 sedan. All adaptations and calibrations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CT15C is a modern engine with a solid reliability record to date. Its main consideration is managing potential carbon buildup through good fuel and driving habits. With regular servicing using the correct 5W-30 oil and adherence to maintenance schedules, it is expected to be very robust for long-term ownership.
The most frequently noted items are potential intake valve carbon buildup (manageable), occasional turbo actuator faults, and operational noise from the high-pressure fuel pump. Minor oil consumption within SAIC's specified limits is also a known characteristic for some engines, not a defect.
The CT15C 1.5L turbo petrol engine is used in the current generation MG ZS SUV (from 2020) and the MG5 sedan (from 2020) across global markets, including the UK and Europe. It powers variants like the ZS Trophy and MG5 Exclusive.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CT15C platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Official combined WLTP figures for the MG ZS with CT15C are around 6.5-7.0 L/100km (40-43 mpg UK). Real-world mixed driving typically yields 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-38 mpg UK), depending heavily on driving style and conditions.
Yes. Like virtually all modern DOHC engines, the CT15C is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail catastrophically, valve and piston contact would likely cause severe internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is designed for the engine's lifetime.
MG specifies a fully synthetic SAE 5W-30 engine oil meeting ACEA C2 or C3 standards. Using the correct low-ash, low-SAPS oil is crucial for protecting the turbocharger, maintaining the emissions system, and ensuring chain longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.