MG has launched its latest SUV in South Africa, pitching the feature-rich HS against established players in the mid-size segment while offering exceptional value for money.
The MG HS has arrived in South Africa, bringing a compelling blend of driving pleasure, refinement, and value to the mid-size SUV segment. Going head-to-head with established rivals like the Mahindra Scorpio-N, Haval H6, and Hyundai Tucson, the HS demonstrates that MG is serious about challenging the status quo.
Design and interior quality
Available in two trim levels – Comfort and Luxury – the HS immediately impresses with its pleasing exterior, offered in a range of metallic finishes including white, black, silver, grey, blue, and red. However, it’s the interior where this newcomer truly shines.
The cabin features a premium carbon black colour scheme, elevated by thoughtful details such as quilted door card inserts and perforated man-made leather upholstery with real stitching. Soft-touch materials throughout reinforce the upmarket feel, though I did find the driver’s seat backrest slightly lacking in contour.
Technology and features
At the heart of the HS’s modern interior sits an expansive colour touchscreen system – actually two screens integrated into a single panel – that serves as the command centre for both infotainment and vehicle functions.
The technology suite is comprehensive, featuring a 360-degree HD camera system with a ‘transparent chassis’ feature and Adaptive Cruise Control with Intelligent Cruise Assistant.
Luxury specification
The Luxury trim further elevates the experience with additional features including an electric panoramic sunroof, rear privacy glass, an enhanced 8-speaker audio system, front parking sensors, heated power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, a power tailgate, and wireless charging capability.
Powertrain and efficiency
Under the bonnet, the HS employs a spirited new 1,5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 125 kW and 275 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission featuring wet-clutch technology for enhanced shift smoothness.
The powertrain delivers impressive efficiency, with real-world fuel consumption matching MG’s claimed 6,9 litres per 100 km combined cycle figure. This is remarkable considering the engine’s spirited performance and responsive nature.
Even during enthusiastic driving, the HS maintains reasonable fuel economy, striking an admirable balance between performance and efficiency.
Driving dynamics
Perhaps most surprising is the HS’s dynamic capability. The suspension design and tuning deserves particular praise, delivering exceptional handling characteristics on challenging roads like the Franschhoek pass while maintaining composure on rough gravel surfaces.
On poor road surfaces, the MG HS displays the kind of build quality and structural integrity that outclasses many European competitors, while the cabin remains remarkably quiet regardless of road conditions.
Safety and structural integrity
Safety hasn’t been overlooked, with the HS earning a five-star EuroNCAP rating. The comprehensive MG Pilot assistance suite includes Front Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Collision Warning, and various other advanced features. Passive safety is addressed through seven airbags and an ultra-high-strength steel body structure.
Space and practicality
The HS’s generous proportions translate to excellent passenger space, particularly in the rear where legroom and headroom are abundant despite the sloping roofline and panoramic sunroof. Practicality is further enhanced by the inclusion of a full-sized spare wheel.
Pricing and warranty
Pricing starts at R499 900 for the Comfort specification, while the feature-rich Luxury variant commands R534 900. Both models come with a 7-year/200 000km warranty and a 5-year/90 000km service plan, both transferrable to subsequent owners.
With its combination of premium features, dynamic capability, and competitive pricing, the MG HS presents a compelling alternative in the mid-size SUV segment, potentially reshaping expectations of what value means in this competitive market segment.
Price list
- HS 1.5T 7DCT Comfort – R499 900
- HS 1.5T 7DCT Luxury – R534 900
