MG's HS PHEV gets a bigger battery and a smarter vibe. Jonathan Crouch drives it.

Ten Second Review

MG was the first budget brand to embrace full electric powertrain technology. It was also the first budget brand to offer plug-in hybrid tech - on the company's mid-range HS SUV, which we reckon is a very under-rated family crossover. Now that model's been significantly updated, with a bigger battery allowing for a vast increase in EV driving range. There's a smarter look and an upgraded cabin too.

Background

MG is one of Britain's fastest growing car brands and its progress has been helped by an early adoption of electrified technology, first in 2019 with the full-EV version of the compact ZS crossover and then, a year later with a Plug-in Hybrid variant of the larger HS model. The HS PHEV's launch was significant for the mid-sized SUV market, which by 2020 had seen a glut of Plug-in Hybrids launched, all at rather over-ambitious prices. This Plug-in HS wasn't inexpensive either, but its initial near-£30,000 price tag made it by far the most affordable car of its kind in its segment at launch. Gratifyingly, the updated version of that model we look at here (launched in mid-2024) isn't all that much more expensive - and now goes a lot further on a single charge. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experience

Quite a lot of work's gone into the PHEV powertrain here. As before, it's based around the ordinary HS model's turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, but the previous rather small 16.6kWh battery pack paired with this unit has been replaced by a much larger 24.7kWh battery which, in concert with a high-efficiency 67kW generator delivers an electric driving range of up to 75 miles, a massive 43 miles further than before. The powertrain with its 6-speed DCT auto gearbox combines the 142PS 1.5-litre engine with a 210PS electric motor (up from 123PS before), allowing for a total output of 299PS and a 0-62mph time of 6.8s (much the same as before thanks to the bigger battery's greater weight). Because this is a front driven-only model, you shouldn't expect to be able to engage in any serious off road shenanigans - the relatively restricted ground clearance doesn't allow for that anyway. And, given the extra weight of all that electrical hardware, you shouldn't expect ride and handling to be cutting-edge, though typical family buyers will probably be quite satisfied.

Design and Build

Visually, there are no significant changes to the Plug-in version of this HS - unless you spot different badging and the extra charging flap. This revised model looks quite a bit sleeker than before, courtesy of a more striking front grille and restyled full-LED headlights. There's also shorter overhangs, a rising shoulder line and a slim glasshouse. At the rear, and echoing the design of the headlights, the LED taillights are linked by a central motif while an X-shape introduces a recognisable light signature at night. Compared to the outgoing model, this updated HS PHEV is 14mm wider at 1,890mm and 60mm longer at 4,670mm (15mm more than the standard model), yet its sleeker profile reduces its overall height by some 30mm. You expect plenty of metal for your money from an MG and you'll not be disappointed here. Don't be put off by the fact that an HS isn't much cheaper than, say, a Nissan Qashqai; it's quite a lot bigger than one of those - though there are still only five seats. MG has done quite a lot to change the cabin, adding two prominent 12.3-inch high-definition displays. The central display is dedicated to infotainment with live navigation services including weather, live traffic updates, access to Amazon Music, and smartphone connectivity via both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Top 'Trophy' models also benefit from a 360-degree surround view camera and wireless smartphone charging as standard. The second 12.3-inch virtual driver display offers two themes - light and dark - and three distinct modes - Map, Digital, and ADAS. Each offers its own unique layout, focusing on either a rolling navigation display, a simplified summary of only the most important driving information, or a real-time visualisation of the vehicle and its surroundings, powered by the driver assistance systems. Otherwise, it's as before. There are more high-quality soft-touch materials than you'd expect for the money being asked and not much button clutter. The seats could be a little more supportive and the indicator stalks feel a bit plasticky, but that's about it on the debit side. As previously, interior space is class-leading (helped by a 45mm increase in wheelbase length with this updated model). That's something you'll especially notice in the rear where there's vastly more space than you'd get in a Qashqai or an Ateca. It's possible to fit three adults here, which is unusual in this class. Headroom's good too - even with the panoramic sunroof fitted. Out back, there's a decently-sized 492-litre boot (only 15-litres smaller than the conventionally-engined model) - that capacity measured up to the window line. Flatten the seat backs and that rises to 1,469-litres.

Market and Model

Pricing for this mid-sized family SUV PHEV model starts at around £31,500 for the base 'SE' version, rising to around £34,000 for the plusher 'Trophy' model. That can be up to £10,000 less than PHEV versions of rivals like the Ford Kuga or the Volkswagen Tiguan. And there's plenty of kit. Even base 'SE'-spec gives you full-LED headlights (with front and rear sequential indicators). Alongside air conditioning, satellite navigation, a rear parking camera with sensors, rain sensing wipers, keyless entry and a leather steering wheel. Plusher 'Trophy' specification also includes 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, ambient interior lighting, rear privacy glass, front fog lights, a powered tailgate and an upgraded 6-speaker audio system. Both models in the range benefit from an enhanced MG Pilot package, with Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Door Open Warning as standard. DCT models also include Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.

Cost of Ownership

We weren't especially impressed by the efficiency figures of the original MG HS PHEV, but this uprated version promises a vast improvement, as evidenced by the hugely improved 75 mile EV range and the fact that MG now says this car will fall into a much more favourable 5% Benefit-in-Kind taxation bracket. MG claims a combined cycle fuel return of up to 565mpg and a CO2 return of up to 12g/km. Charging from a 7kW AC wallbox takes around 4 hours. What about other running cost issues? Well, like all versions of this MG, this one comes with an impressive seven-year, 80,000-mile warranty as standard - which is better than most rival brands can offer. You might be aware that rivals offer longer packages, but MG still reckons its deal is preferable because it's backed by full factory support throughout, whereas direct manufacturer support for rival warranties declines the longer they go on. In many cases they don't go on too long. Many competitors still limit you to a three year back-up package; a few offer five years. MG does better: this is the brand putting its money where its mouth is. The warranty is fully transferrable to future owners. Additionally, there's a six year factory warranty against rust, while a year's breakdown cover is also part of the deal. The MG dealer network is growing all the time - the brand currently has 160 outlets in the UK. At those outlets, a full digital service record of checks and maintenance provides the customer with complete transparency and full access to the service history of their vehicle.

Summary

We've complained for some time that pricing for mid-sized Plug-in hybrid SUVs is far too expensive. So the arrival of this upgraded HS Plug-in model is welcome. We're impressed by its better battery technology. And even more by the fact that MG has kept the price affordable. Do you really need to pay more for a mid-sized PHEV crossover than this? With other PHEVs in this class, you often feel that the manufacturers' hearts aren't really in it. That these variants are only really in the range to drive down the line-up's combined CO2 reading - and that the makers in question don't really care too much about how many they'll actually sell. In contrast, MG absolutely expects to shift this electrified HS in decent global volumes and has priced the car to do just that. Plug-in hybrid tech may not have a very long shelf life - some European countries reckon it might be banned by 2035 - but right here, right now, it's a great option for many family buyers. And if you agree, then you need to try this car.

Body Glass

Rain sensing wipers

Front and rear aero wiper

Front and rear electric windows with one-touch up/down

Rear privacy glass

Brakes

Electronic Stability Programme

Hill launch assist

Hill descent control

Anti-lock Brake System and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Electric parking brake with auto hold function

Communication

Android Auto

Bluetooth connectivity

iSmart

Apple CarPlay

Wireless charging

Driver Aids

Rear parking sensors

Rear cross traffic alert

Forward collision warning

Power assisted steering

Front parking sensors

360 degree parking camera

Lane keep assist system (LAS) with Lane departure warning system (LDWS)

Driving modes

Intelligent speed limit assist

Lane change assist

Blind spot detection

Driver attention alert

Adaptive cruise control

Driver Convenience

Smart power tailgate

Driver Information

Emergency call service

Trip computer

12.3" Virtual driver information display

Satellite navigation system

12.3" colour touchscreen

Traffic jam assist

Live services

Driving Mirrors

Electric adjustable/heated/folding door mirrors with memory

Automatic dimming rear view mirror

Entertainment

DAB audio

4 USB ports 2 front and 2 rear

8 Speaker audio system

Exterior Body Features

Side steps

Vehicle to Load

Rear side wing doors

Silver roof rails

Exterior Lights

Intelligent high beam

Automatic headlights

Front fog lights

LED daytime running lights

LED Headlights

Follow me home headlights

LED 3rd brake light

LED rear lights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Dual zone automatic air conditioning

Interior Features

Front centre sliding armrest with storage compartment

Metal sports pedals

Multi function steering wheel

12V power sockets

Height and reach adjustable steering wheel

Interior Lights

Front and rear reading lights

Safety

Drivers seatbelt reminder

3x3 point rear seatbelts

Front centre airbag

Side curtain airbags

Manual rear child locks

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Rear outer seatbelt pretensioner and load limiter

Dual front airbags

Door open warning

Front seatbelts (3-point + pretensioner + load limiter)

Active emergency braking with pedestrian/Bicycle detection

Front seat belt height adjuster

Front and rear passenger seat belt reminder

Anti rolling protection

Front passenger airbag deactivation switch

Front side airbags

Seats

6 way electric adjustable drivers seat with lumbar adjustment and memory function with easy access

Front headrests

2nd row 60/40 split fold seat

ISOFIX restraints on outer rear seats x2

3 rear headrests

3 seat bench in 2nd row

3 stage heated front seats

Single passenger seat

4 way electric adjustable passenger seat

Security

Acoustic vehicle alert system (AVAS)

Alarm system and engine immobiliser

Keyless entry and push button start system

Remote central locking

Speed sensing door locks

Wheels - Alloy

19" Blade diamond cut alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Tyre repair kit

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins): 450

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW: 2.2

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins): 240

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW: 7

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change: 0-100

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins): N

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW: N

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change: N

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins): N

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW: N

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change: N

Coupler/Connector Type: Type 2

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years: 7

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage: 80000

Battery Capacity in kWh: 24.7

Battery Leased: 0

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - City: 18.2

WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb: 21

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - City: 135

WLTP - Equivalent AER (km) - Comb: 120

WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - City: 3.4

WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb: 2.9

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - City: 84

WLTP - Equivalent AER (miles) - Comb: 75

Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty: 70

Charging Port Location: Right Side Rear

Usable Battery Capacity: 23.2

Maximum Charging Rate - kW: 7

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

Emissions - PHEV

WLTP - CO2 Weighted (g/km) - Comb: 12

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 73.5

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 88.1

CC: 1496

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE

Compression Ratio: 13.5:1

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 2 SPEED

Engine Code: N

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

Fuel Consumption - PHEV

WLTP - FC Weighted (l/100km) - Comb: 0.5

WLTP - FC Weighted (mpg) - Comb: 565

General

Coin Series: Trophy

Coin Description: TGI PHEV

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 7

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 80000

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 7

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 27A

Service Interval Mileage: 15000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: N

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: N

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 90

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 85

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 83

NCAP Safety Assist %: 74

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

Badge Power: 299

Badge Engine CC: 1.5

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 6.8

Top Speed: 105

Engine Power - BHP: 299

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 220

Engine Power - RPM: 5500

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 258

Engine Torque - NM: 350

Engine Torque - RPM: 4000

Engine Torque - MKG: 35.7

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 225/55 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 225/55 R19

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Wheel Style: BLADE

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4670

Width: 1890

Wheelbase: 2765

Width (including mirrors): 2066

Height: N

Height (including roof rails): 1663

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1875

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2350

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 55

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1500

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 475

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 507

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Roof Load: 75

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1484

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.3

Driving Mirrors

Body colour door mirrors

Exterior Body Features

Metallic paint

Tri coat paint

Interior Features

Additional leather style upholstery

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Black pearl

Metallic - Sterling silver

Metallic - Hampstead grey

Paint - Solid

Solid - White pearl

Paint - Special

Tri coat - Dynamic Red

Trim - Leather

Leather style - Black

Additional leather style - Tan