MG HS Review | A budget SUV with premium aspirations
The MG HS has now been through several iterations, in relatively quick succession. The latest version is the most impressive yet – by quite a margin.
This Qashqai alternative offers fantastic value for money, and a range of petrol, hybrid and plug-in options ensure there’s something in the range for everyone. But what’s it like to live with? Here’s our full review after living with the HS for a week.
What is it?
The MG HS is a family-sized crossover that’s taking aim at the likes of the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson among many others. It’s a compelling option for lease customers too, with prices starting at less than £200 per month for petrol-powered variants.
It sits above the ZS in the MG range and, aside from the premium IM5 and 6 EV models, can be considered its flagship model.
It's amazing that MG has created such an upmarket feeling model at this price point, with the latest iteration of the HS featuring looks and tech that really put it a cut above similarly priced rivals.
All models are well-equipped, with things like a 12.3in infotainment system as standard.
Consider for a moment, that this model has a similar list price to value-focused cars like the Dacia Duster, and it really puts things into perspective. Just two trim levels of offered – SE and Trophy. All models are well-equipped, with things like a 12.3in infotainment system and a rear parking camera coming as standard.
The looks
The latest HS features a neat design, incorporating a much more premium look than its predecessor. Up front there’s a bold new grille design, flanked by a pair of sleek headlights that meld neatly between the bonnet and bumper. At the rear, there’s a full-width light bar that continues that premium-feeling theme.
It really feels like a classy and imposing vehicle.
The window line feels quite high up compared to some rivals, and its overall ride height makes it feel as if you climb up into it. Combined with some chunky wheel arch trims and standard 19in alloy wheels, it really feels like a classy and imposing vehicle.
The interior and tech
If the exterior wasn’t enough to convince you of the HS’s premium aspirations, the interior tech certainly should. The dashboard looks like it belongs to a car that costs twice as much. There’s a dual-screen set-up, with both units measuring 12.3in each.
It’s a similar set-up to models offered by Kia and Hyundai. Underneath the central touchscreen, you’ll find a row of shortcut keys into various menus, while the steering wheel is also covered in buttons. It can be a little overwhelming to get used to at first, but you soon get the hang of navigating the menus via the wheel controls.
Quality impresses throughout. You’ll find very few cheaper plastics in the HS now.
The infotainment system itself is quite intuitive, and identical to the one you’ll find in other MG models. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is available on all models. Our only complaint about the set-up as a whole is that the digital driver display could be clearer; information and read outs are quite small, and it doesn’t have as many customisable screen options as some rivals.
Quality impresses throughout. You’ll find very few cheaper plastics in the HS now, with a real focus on how the controls feel. The plastic used in the rear and on the doors isn’t quite up to premium rivals, but then again, it doesn’t have a premium price tag.
It scores well quite well on the practicality front too. It’s not quite as roomy as some rivals, but with a 507-litre boot, it should still be more than adequate for both needs. In PHEV form, it still offers that 507 litres too, unlike many rivals where battery space impedes usable space.
The drive
The HS isn’t just available in petrol form, but as a plug-in hybrid too. In fact, there’s three options: a 169hp manual petrol, a 230hp hybrid and a 317hp plug-in hybrid. While they all use the same 1.5-litre engine as a basis, the performance the plug-in offers is really noticeable – it gets from 0-62mph in just 6.8 seconds which is impressive for a car of its class.
MG’s driver assistance package also comes in useful on longer journeys.
Whichever model you go for, the driving experience is refined, comfortable and impressively frugal. The PHEV should provide around 50 miles of electric-only range in the real world, and potent acceleration on longer journeys.
MG’s driver assistance package also comes in useful on longer journeys, although we found the various warnings to be a little annoying around town.
While the PHEV might offer an impressive 0-62mph time, the truth is the HS just isn't very fun to drive. Crossovers are never going to offer the last word in driving enjoyment, but the steering in all HS models doesn’t feel particularly engaging.
Should you lease one?
If you’re after a practical, stylish and well-equipped family crossover that won’t break the bank, the MG HS makes a very strong case for itself. It’s not the most engaging car to drive, but it more than makes up for that with refinement, comfort, generous tech as standard and a price point that undercuts many of its rivals. With petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available – all offering solid efficiency and usability – there’s a version to suit most needs.
The HS represents exceptional value and proves that MG is now playing in the same space as mainstream brands.
For leasing customers, the HS represents exceptional value and proves that MG is now playing in the same space as mainstream brands like Nissan and Hyundai, while offering more kit for less. In short, if value, comfort and tech top your wish list, the HS deserves serious consideration.
