MG HS: Bang for your buck
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This full-size model is well equipped and terrific value – and its arrival could make the SUV genre even more popular than it already is, writes Sean O’Grady. It probably came as no great surprise to you to see that SUVs are now Britain’s favourite kind of car (that’s according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, the pre-eminent trade body).
![[It’s a more than respectable choice in terms of perceived quality and image]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/10/MGHS2.jpg)
No other “genre” sells so many, and they come in a vast variety of flavours – from small petrol and hybrid models such as the Peugeot 2008, say, all the way up to all-electric behemoths (still relatively green) such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. With the arrival of a new-generation MG HS, I imagine the SUV will become just that little bit more popular.
![[The interior is a little predictable, but not off-putting]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/10/FrontSeat%281%29.jpg)
TL;DR? This full-size SUV model is terrific value. Go try one. It is indeed one of the outstanding offers on the new car market today – even accounting for some dramatically discounted electric cars. It’s a more than respectable choice in terms of perceived quality and image, and the 1.5-litre petrol model can be had for £24,995, while the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option starts at £31,495.
![[You’ll have to negotiate with a touchscreen to turn on the lights]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/10/MGHS3.jpg)
Every model gets the same smart contemporary styling, along with decent equipment levels, including a powered tailgate, a panoramic reversing camera, and wireless/induction smartphone charging – plus 19in polished alloy wheels – and the full complement of cruise control and driver assistance to help keep you and your passengers safe.
Despite the car’s big door point, the boot isn’t actually as capacious as more costly rivals (Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage), but it’s not bad. Granted, this is one of those faux SUVs in the sense that it only comes with front-wheel drive, but when was the last time you needed a serious off-roader? This is comfortable, mostly spacious, practical family motoring, with a fashionable emphasis on affordability.
