The MG HS is one of the brand’s key models in the UK from both a volume and profit margin perspective, serving as a solid upgrade option for MG ZS owners. The Hybrid+ pairs a petrol engine with an electric motor and does not require external charging.
We spent some time experiencing MG’s family SUV in the global-spec model, and here are our first impressions.
Design
The latest MG HS adopts a revised exterior design with a wide front grille, slim LED headlights and a sculpted bonnet.
From the side, the SUV features smooth body lines, silver roof rails and 19-inch alloy wheels. A full-width LED rear light bar spans the rear of the vehicle.
Interior
The MG HS Hybrid+ features a five-seat cabin with dual 12.3-inch displays comprising a digital instrument screen and a central infotainment touchscreen. Satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are fitted as standard, while Hybrid+ models also support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
SE models are equipped with cloth upholstery and a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. Trophy models add leather-style upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless phone charging and an electrically adjustable passenger seat. An optional tan interior is also available on the Trophy.
Depending on the trim level, the audio system features either six or eight speakers.
Experience in the HS Hybrid+
I spent time in the MG HS Hybrid+, and it made a strong first impression as a comfortable family SUV. The step-in height is easy to manage, and the doors close with a solid thunk, which gives the car a reassuringly well-built feel.
Once inside, the electrically adjustable front seats felt very supportive. For my 6-foot frame, shoulder support was good, side bolstering was well judged, under-thigh support was pretty good, and the backrest and headrests felt well designed. I could see myself being comfortable in these seats on a long road trip.
The driving position was easy to settle into, and outward visibility was good overall. However, the base of the front pillars felt a little thick, which could create a blind spot.
The pedal box is well designed, and the dead pedal felt comfortable. I also liked the typical MG steering wheel, especially the perforated sides, which add extra grip.
That said, the gloss black finish on the steering-wheel buttons and centre console will not be easy to maintain. The wireless charging pad is useful, though two pads would have been better in a car of this size. USB ports are provided as well.
Rear access was easy, and with the front seat set to my driving position, space was good. Despite the panoramic roof, I had about 8 cm of rear headroom. My size 11.5 shoes slid under the front seat, and I had at least 8 cm of knee room.
The rear seatback support was good, and the seat profiling felt well shaped. The small under-thigh extensions help a little, while the centre armrest with cupholders improves comfort.
However, there is a slight floor hump, so the middle seat is not ideal for an adult. The rear seatbacks fold forward, but they do not offer multi-step recline.
Specifications
The MG HS Hybrid+ measures 4,670 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width (2,066 mm including mirrors) and 1,663 mm in height. The wheelbase measures 2,765 mm.
Boot capacity is 530 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,484 litres with the rear seats folded.
The hybrid powertrain pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 142 PS (105 kW) with an electric motor generating 198 PS (146 kW). Combined system output is 224 PS (165 kW) and 340 Nm of torque, paired with a 2-speed automatic transmission.
MG quotes a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 7.9 seconds, while top speed is 118 mph (190 km/h).
The MG HS Hybrid+ uses a 1.8 kWh (NCM) battery with a 0.92 kWh usable capacity. Unlike a plug-in hybrid, the battery is charged through regenerative braking and the petrol engine.
Under the official WLTP test cycle, the SE Hybrid+ returns up to 51.3 mpg (5.5 L/100 km) on the combined cycle, while the Trophy Hybrid+ is rated at 48.7 mpg (5.8 L/100 km).
MG equips the HS Hybrid+ with its MG Pilot driver assistance package. Features include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist, intelligent speed limit assist and blind spot monitoring.
Pricing
The MG HS Hybrid+ prices start from GBP 29,495 (OTR) for the SE Hybrid+, while the Trophy Hybrid+ is priced from GBP 31,995 (OTR).
At that price, it undercuts rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Kia Sportage Hybrid and Nissan Qashqai e-Power, all of which cost several thousand pounds more.
There are a few minor drawbacks. The gloss-black trim is prone to marks, and a second wireless charging pad would have been useful. Even so, the HS Hybrid+ feels like a comfortable and well-built family SUV for the money.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
