2025 MG HS – Compact Crossover SUV (launched 2018)
1. Vehicle Overview
The MG HS, introduced in 2018, is MG’s flagship family SUV, sitting above the smaller ZS in the lineup. Designed to rival models like the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Qashqai, it offers impressive space, strong equipment levels, and excellent value for money.
Available in both petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions, the HS delivers comfort-focused motoring with a premium feel — all backed by MG’s 7-year warranty. By 2025, the HS remains one of the best-equipped SUVs in its price range, following a facelift in 2023 that sharpened its design and improved interior quality.
2. Key Specifications
MG HS Petrol
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged petrol |
| Power / Torque | 162 hp / 250 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / 7-speed dual-clutch automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0–100 km/h | 9.9 s (auto) |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 7.0–7.4 L/100 km (37–40 mpg) |
| CO₂ Emissions | 160–170 g/km |
| Boot Capacity | 463 L (1,454 L with seats folded) |
MG HS Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L turbo petrol + electric motor |
| Combined Power / Torque | 258 hp / 370 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 16.6 kWh lithium-ion |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic (6-speed ICE + 4-speed EV) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 0–100 km/h | 6.9 s |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h |
| Electric Range (WLTP) | Up to 52 km (32 miles) |
| Charging (AC) | 7 kW (0–100% ≈ 4.5 h) |
| Fuel Economy (Combined WLTP) | 1.8 L/100 km (156 mpg) |
| CO₂ Emissions | 43 g/km |
3. Exterior Design
The 2025 MG HS carries over the handsome, confident styling from its 2023 facelift, giving it a more refined and mature look.
Key design features
Bold chrome “Stellar Field” grille
Full LED headlights with LED DRLs
Re-sculpted bumpers and sleeker taillights
17- or 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Roof rails and chrome window surrounds
Sportier detailing on Trophy trims
The HS combines elegance and sportiness, with proportions that make it look more premium than its price suggests.
4. Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the HS impresses with a premium design, soft-touch materials, and a spacious layout. The dashboard and centre console have been modernized with a more upscale feel.
Highlights include
Dual 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument display
Leather-style upholstery (standard on Trophy trim)
Heated front seats and power driver seat
Panoramic sunroof (Trophy trim)
Dual-zone climate control
Generous rear seat legroom and recline function
The HS’s interior feels far more luxurious than its affordable price would imply — making long journeys a pleasure.
5. Features & Infotainment
The MG iSMART infotainment system keeps the HS connected and modern:
10.1-inch central touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Built-in navigation with live traffic
MG iSMART app for remote vehicle monitoring (PHEV)
360° surround-view camera
6- or 8-speaker audio system
Voice recognition and OTA software updates
The user interface is clear and responsive, and the latest system offers faster processing than earlier models.
6. Safety & Ratings
The MG HS holds a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, thanks to its strong structure and full suite of MG Pilot safety features:
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
Blind Spot Detection
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Traffic Sign Recognition
Driver Attention Alert
360° parking cameras
It’s one of the safest family SUVs in its class — especially for the price.
7. Driving Performance
The HS Petrol delivers smooth, easygoing performance suited for relaxed driving. The dual-clutch automatic provides seamless shifts, while the suspension is tuned for comfort over bumps and long journeys.
The HS PHEV, on the other hand, offers far stronger performance — 258 hp ensures brisk acceleration and effortless overtaking. In EV mode, it runs silently and efficiently for up to 52 km, ideal for short commutes or city use.
Both models prioritize refinement and comfort over sporty handling, making the HS an excellent long-distance cruiser.
8. Fuel Efficiency / EV Range
| Petrol | 7.0 L/100 km (≈ 40 mpg) |
| PHEV | 1.8 L/100 km (≈ 156 mpg WLTP) |
| Electric-only range | 52 km (32 miles) |
| Charging | 7 kW AC – 0 to 100% in about 4.5 hours |
The HS PHEV’s hybrid system allows short commutes with zero emissions while keeping petrol flexibility for longer journeys — the best of both worlds.
9. Practicality & Everyday Usability
Practicality remains one of the MG HS’s biggest strengths:
| Boot | 463 L (1,454 L seats folded) |
Flat floor and wide tailgate opening
Rear seat recline and generous legroom
Plenty of storage in doors, centre console, and underfloor compartments
| Towing capacity | 1,500 kg (petrol) / 750 kg (PHEV) |
It’s one of the roomiest SUVs in its class, ideal for families and road trips.
10. Warranty & Maintenance
MG’s renowned ownership package continues with
7-year / 80,000-mile warranty (includes battery and motor for PHEV)
| Service intervals | Every 12 months or 15,000 miles |
Affordable MG ServiceCare plans for predictable maintenance costs
This warranty coverage is among the best in the compact SUV market.
11. Price & Value for Money
Approximate pricing (UK & Europe, 2025)
| Model | Powertrain | Range / Economy | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG HS SE 1.5T | Petrol | 40 mpg | £24,000 (€28,000) |
| MG HS Trophy 1.5T DCT | Petrol | 39 mpg | £27,000 (€31,000) |
| MG HS Plug-in Hybrid SE | PHEV | 52 km EV / 1.8 L/100 km | £32,000 (€36,000) |
| MG HS Plug-in Hybrid Trophy | PHEV | 52 km EV / 1.8 L/100 km | £35,000 (€39,000) |
Given its size, equipment, and hybrid capability, the HS offers exceptional value for money.
12. Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range / Economy | Power | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG HS PHEV | 1.5T + electric | 52 km EV / 1.8 L/100 km | 258 hp | £33,000 |
| Kia Sportage PHEV | 1.6T + electric | 70 km EV / 1.5 L/100 km | 265 hp | £41,000 |
| Hyundai Tucson PHEV | 1.6T + electric | 62 km EV / 1.6 L/100 km | 265 hp | £40,000 |
| Nissan Qashqai e-Power | Series hybrid | 5.3 L/100 km | 190 hp | £36,000 |
| Ford Kuga PHEV | 2.5 PHEV | 60 km EV / 1.4 L/100 km | 225 hp | £38,000 |
The MG HS easily undercuts its competition by several thousand pounds while offering similar performance and features.
13. Pros & Cons
Pros
Excellent value for money
Spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped interior
Long 7-year warranty
Refined ride and quiet motorway cruising
Strong performance from the PHEV
Cons
Handling less engaging than rivals
Infotainment still slightly laggy at times
High emissions for the pure-petrol version
No AWD option
14. Overall Rating
4.6 / 5
15. Final Verdict
The 2025 MG HS remains one of the most practical and affordable compact SUVs you can buy. It combines family-friendly comfort, premium looks, and strong equipment levels at a price far below most competitors.
The PHEV version adds low running costs and excellent performance, while the petrol models continue to offer unbeatable affordability. Whether you’re after an efficient commuter or a versatile family car, the HS delivers big SUV comfort for compact money — and MG’s 7-year warranty seals the deal.
It’s a top-value alternative to mainstream rivals and a great all-rounder for 2025.
16. Affiliate CTA
Thinking about the MG HS or HS Plug-in Hybrid? Compare lease, finance, and insurance offers from certified MG dealers and experience why it’s one of the smartest SUV buys of 2025.
Pros & cons
- Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
- Useful family-friendly versatility
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The HS-compact crossover SUV (2018) is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting a raised driving position and useful family practicality. |
| Body style | Suv/Crossover |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.