The MG HS is a full-sized SUV that combines space and a wide array of features in a very handsome package. The HS is available with a choice of either petrol or petrol plug-in hybrid powertrain options, and although we drove the plug-in hybrid, both models share a lot of the same specification and features.
Design
In terms of design the HS is a very handsome SUV. From the front, the use of chrome, and design of the grille give the HS a luxury looks and feel about it, whilst the muscular shoulder line in the profile carries on these cues, and inject a degree of sportiness. From every angle, the HS really stands out, it even has a distinctive rear end. Something that is worth mentioning with the HS’s design is that it follows the tropes of more luxurious manufacturers, as opposed to traditional competitors and the result is an upscale, family SUV.
Inside
Inside the HS, if you were to cover the badge on the steering wheel, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were inside again for thinking you were inside a luxury model. The design, use of colours and materials really feels like something Italian, think Maserati or Alfa Romeo, and that really isn’t a bad thing. The interior has a wide array of high-quality soft touch materials that you wouldn’t expect at this price point. Equally the choice to use red for the seats and the dash is a triumph really, not only does it stand out from the boring black and beiges we have got used to, but it looks really classy.
Something that is worth noting with the interior of the HS is simply how cavernous the interior is! The back seats are beyond roomy and could easily accommodate three adults, and the boot is beyond cavernous, making this the ideal family SUV.
Features
To say the HS has a wide array of features is borderline insulting, because the HS comes with every feature you could think of and more. Whether it be the automatic boot, the MG Pilot+ safety systems or 360-degree parking system, the HS has it! On the day of our test, it was really sunny, so we were able to have the panoramic sunroof open, which really makes the interior an even nicer place to be. All the equipment is intuitive and logically laid out and in general the HS just makes sense.
How it Drives
The HS equipped with the plug-in powertrain is designed to give you the best of both worlds, with the option of pure electric driving, giving you up to 32 miles of pure electric range, with the benefit of a petrol engine, so you can drive as a self-charging hybrid. During the test, we drove the HS Plug-In in both set ups, and found that in both it was a dream! In pure electric mode, as you’d expect, it was quiet and refined, with smooth and consistent acceleration. The same story was true in self-charging hybrid mode too, with seamless switch between petrol and electric, and even with the petrol engine in use, the HS was still incredibly quiet and refined.
One thing that is evident in the HS is the performance, as the HS has the ability to reach 60 seconds in a respectable 6.7 seconds. This is particularly useful in urban settings as pulling out from busy junctions doesn’t feel like a strain at all, the HS is ideal for all scenarios!
Verdict
We think that the HS in all iterations is an excellent choice for families, or those looking for a luxury SUV. When you take into account the fact that with the petrol powertrain, it starts from just £22,625, it’s a no brainer, it really is a car for everyone!
