GOING THE HS ROUTE (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 63

HS here doesn't designate a super-fast rail route but MG's largest SUV, which in 2019 replaced the GS in the company's crossover line-up. It's one of the most spacious mid-sized SUVs you could choose, yet it retails for thousands less than you'd pay for comparably-shaped rivals. The usual MG formula in other words, which was backed up by the normal lengthy brand warranty.

Modelsword count: 5

5dr SUV (1.5 petrol/1.5 PHEV)

Historyword count: 110

MG is one of the market's fastest growing brands, with many of its sales currently being of its compact ZS SUV. Back in 2019, this HS model slotted in above that car, enabling the brand to hold on to family buyers who might have out-grown its smaller models. And to target new customers who previously would never have considered MG in this segment. These people are going to want a higher standard of luxury and sophistication and the HS range set out to provide just that. A Plug-in Hybrid version arrived in 2020. And the range was lightly facelifted in mid-2023. It's the pre-facelift 2019-2023 models we look at here.

What You Getword count: 349

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. The styling's pretty straightforward, taking the family look lately established with the compact ZS and applying it to a wider, squarer shape. It's all rather smart - even a little Mercedes GLC-like from some angles. There's an almost-Mercedes-like feel inside too - or at least there is in the top 'Exclusive' variant anyway. Across the range, HS cabins are marked out by a high quality dash with welcome little touches like piano black finishing and satin chrome trim, as well as knurled-effect piano key switchgear and turbine-style air vents. MG is really getting the hang of cabin design and this car was a big step forward in this respect from anything the brand had previously offered. The seats could be a little more supportive, the indicator stalks feel a bit plasticky and there are a few too many bings and bongs for our liking; that's about it on the debit side. There aren't many buttons, most features re-located to a large 10.1-inch centre-dash infotainment touchscreen compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Interior space is class-leading, something you'll especially notice in the rear where there's vastly more room than you'd get in a Qashqai or an Ateca. It's almost possible to fit three adults comfortably in the back, which is unusual in this class. Headroom's good too - even with the panoramic sunroof fitted. The central seatback doubles as an armrest, with built-in storage and twin cupholders. Rear passengers get two central air vents and USB ports, plus a reading light on each side. Out back, there's a decently-sized 450-litre boot - that capacity measured up to the window line. The retractable luggage cover feels a little cheap but otherwise, the strong feeling of quality remains. Fold the 60:40-split rear bench and capacity rises to 1,454-litres.

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