MG HS

Model Overview

The MG HS is a compact C-segment SUV under SAIC Motor's MG brand, developed based on the MG X-motion Concept that debuted at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show. On 20 June 2018, the model was officially christened "MG HS" alongside the release of official design sketches. It was launched in Chongqing on 16 September the same year, offering nine variants across 1.5T and 2.0T powertrains, with official retail prices ranging from RM119,800 to RM189,800. The 2019 20T China VI compliant version was introduced later, bringing the entry price down to between RM109,800 and RM129,800. In July 2024, the all-new second-generation MG HS made its global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, featuring an upgraded plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, larger dimensions of 4,655 × 1,890 × 1,655 mm, and an extended wheelbase of 2,765 mm. As a cornerstone of MG's global expansion, the MG HS spearheads the brand's push into the competitive compact SUV market.

Design Language

The MG HS adopts MG's "Emotional Dynamism" design philosophy, themed around "Running Hormone", making it the first mainstream production SUV globally to feature pure-surface sculpting and light-and-shadow shoulder lines. Up front, it sports a concave "Stellar Field" dot-matrix grille flanked by LED headlamps incorporating classic British circular lighting elements for a distinct visual identity. At the rear, three-dimensional horizontal LED tail lamps paired with dual exhaust tips accentuate its sporty stance. Inside, the cabin features a symmetrical wing-spread dashboard layout, a 10.1-inch floating central touchscreen display standard across the range, and an electronic gear shifter for 30T variants. The Trophy Super Sport version adds an exclusive Track Red interior theme, Trophy-embroidered headrests, and bespoke badging.

Powertrain & Performance

The MG HS is offered with two powertrain options: 1.5T and 2.0T. The 1.5T turbocharged engine delivers 124 kW (169 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), completing the 0–100 km/h sprint in 9.3 seconds. The 2.0T variant is powered by SAIC's proprietary NetBlue 30T Trophy high-performance turbocharged engine, constructed with an all-aluminium cylinder block and featuring high-efficiency turbocharging, central in-cylinder direct injection, and dual variable valve timing (DVVT). It churns out 170 kW (231 PS) and 370 Nm of peak torque (up 10 Nm in the China VI version compared to China V), mated to a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (wet DCT), achieving a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds. The SUV tops out at 210 km/h, with a rated combined fuel consumption of around 8.2 L/100 km.

Chassis & Handling

Underneath, the MG HS is built on the SSA+ platform with front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension setup. The front suspension incorporates an inverted L-shaped lower wishbone to boost lateral stiffness and optimise steering gear packaging; the rear utilises a unique blade-type multi-link design, balancing cabin roominess with agile handling. Key chassis hardware is sourced from top-tier global suppliers, including SACHS front dampers from Germany, Continental brake calipers, and Bosch steering systems. An XDS Cornering Dynamic Control System comes standard across all variants, subtly braking the inner driven wheel during cornering to curb understeer and sharpen turn-in response. Ground clearance measures approximately 175 mm unladen and 155 mm fully laden. Higher-spec 30T variants are equipped with an intelligent on-demand all-wheel-drive (AWD) system featuring Standard and Super Sport driving modes.

Cabin & Equipment

The MG HS comes standard with a 10.1-inch floating central touchscreen infotainment display powered by the latest Zebra Zhixing 3.0 operating system developed on AliOS. The system integrates AI voice commands, big-data cloud navigation, smartphone remote control, Tencent Music, Kaola FM, Tingjiandan smart parking, WeChat convoy travel, and expressway e-payment functions. The head unit features built-in AutoNavi navigation with handwriting, keyboard, and voice inputs. Standard convenience kit across the range includes 4G connected telematics, keyless entry with push-start button, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold, and a direct Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Higher trims gain a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster and a premium BOSE audio system. A large 1.19 m² panoramic sunroof is fitted as standard across the lineup.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The MG HS is equipped with the MG PILOT Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), utilising a Mobileye EyeQ monocular camera setup for environmental sensing. The suite comprises Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), 4-in-1 Blind Spot Detection, Speed Assist System (SAS), and Intelligent High Beam Control (IHC). Test data shows that at 30 km/h, the AEB system can bring the vehicle to a full stop within 7 metres of a detected obstacle. For passive safety, six airbags are standard, complemented by a full-perimeter subframe engineered for improved crashworthiness. In December 2019, the MG HS scored full five-star safety ratings in both Euro NCAP and ANCAP crash assessments.

Market Reception & Verdict

The MG HS has seen a distinct pattern of being far more successful overseas than in its domestic market. In China, monthly sales lingered below 1,000 units following its launch due to limited brand awareness and a developing service network. Overseas, however, the HS has become a core volume driver for MG's global footprint — in the first half of 2025, MG's European sales surged 18.6% against market trends to 153,100 units, with pre-owned MG HS units entering the top 10 best-selling used cars in Europe in May, and used HS electrified models recording faster turnover times than the industry average. In Poland, HS sales jumped nearly fivefold year-on-year, ranking ninth on the national best-sellers chart. In December 2025, the MG HS was named "Best Value for Money Vehicle". Owners have praised the punchy 2.0T powertrain, the sharp handling aided by the XDS system, and the intuitive 10.1-inch Zebra Zhixing infotainment, though some have noted low brand recognition, occasional low-speed DCT hesitations, and intermittent infotainment lag. The all-new generation HS launched in July 2024 features a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a dual 12.3-inch digital cockpit, continuing to anchor MG's global offensive in key export markets.