Buyer’s guide to the MG HS

Buyer’s guide to the MG HS

Looking at MG’s value-packed HS SUV? Here’s what you need to know about it

MG has built up a fantastic reputation in recent years for offering value-packed models.

That’s exactly the case with the HS – its newest model, and the largest car in its range. Sitting above the ZS in its line-up of crossovers, the HS rivals the likes of the Nissan Qashqai and Seat Ateca – offering low pricing, a spacious interior and loads of standard kit. Not forgetting MG’s seven-year warranty.

If you’re in the market for a new family crossover, you should definitely swing by an MG dealer to check it out for yourself.

But before you do that, it’s worth our reading our buyer’s guide to it, and here’s what you need to know about it…

What engines are available?

There’s no choice here, as the HS is just available with a turbocharged 160bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine, which is available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

In terms of performance, it can accelerate from 0-60mph in a respectable 9.6 seconds, and hit a top speed of 118mph. As for efficiency, the best option is the manual version, which is marginally better on fuel – returning a combined 37.2mpg next to the automatic’s 36.2mpg. CO2 emissions range between 172g/km and 177g/km.

What trim levels are on offer?

While originally available with three grades, MG no longer offers the entry-level Explore trim – leaving you to pick between the Excite and Exclusive. Prices and equipment highlights are as follows.

Excite – from £20,995

All HS versions come very well-equipped, with standard kit including keyless entry and start, leather upholstery and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. It also gains a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and a large 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and satellite navigation. It also features ‘MG Pilot’, which is a suite of driver assistance features including autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. If you opt for an automatic version, you also get adaptive cruise control.

Exclusive – from £23,495

At the top of the line-up, the Exclusive comes with a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather upholstery and LED headlights with auto-dipping high-beam. An electric tailgate is also included, along with heated sports seats, dual-zone climate control and ambient interior lighting.

What about personalisation?

Given how well-equipped the HS comes as standard, MG doesn’t offer loads of extras – it’s mainly just colours and accessories to pick from.

White is the standard colour, but it’s worth upgrading to a metallic option – Brixton Blue and Farringdon Red (pictured) being two nice hues. In terms of accessories, a spare wheel is worth choosing, as are fabric mats. If you want to be a bit more adventurous, choose roof bars and cycle carriers, as well as a tow bar.