MG MOTOR’S aggressive marketing in Australia continues unabated with a recent rash of price reductions, model run-outs, enhanced warranty, promotional associations, new models like the MG 3 light car (including a hybrid variant) and now the new MG HS medium-size SUV has arrived keeping the brand front-of-mind among buyers.
Still to arrive is the hero Cyberster BEV sports car and other models including hybrid versions of the HS in a few months and others slated for introduction next year, with even the “ute” word mentioned in passing.
MG Motor vehicles face stiff competition in their respective classes with the new HS going head-to-head with established players in the most competitive Medium SUV segment against the likes of Toyota’s RAV4 and the Mitsubishi Outlander.
But that does not faze MG Motor Australia’s chief commercial officer Giles Belcher who said in his opening address at the HS launch – and delivered with palpable confidence – that “today marks a momentous occasion for MG Motor as we proudly unveil the all-new, MG HS in Australia and New Zealand”.
“This launch heralds a new era in automotive excellence, setting a new benchmark for mid-size SUVs in our markets,” he said.
But evident from his words Mr Belcher (and MG) still has a focused eye on EVs which he said were the future of mobility commenting, “Since we first launched the ZS EV, we have been a leader and a disruptor in the EV space, and still are with the MG4 and soon to be released Cyberster as well as ZS Hybrid”.
“Electrification is still our vision and our future, and we will have 100 per cent electrified vehicles, but the market, the customers currently want hybrids so, although we are launching the HS petrol variant today, we are also excited to bring HS hybrid and plug in hybrid to Aussie and Kiwi customers by H1 next year,” he added.
By mid-2025 Australian customers will have choice of an MG 3 Hybrid, a ZS Hybrid and a HS Hybrid, and MG says it will continue to offer different drive train options as it brings new products to market.
This is the second generation of the MG HS that is more than an upgrade although similar on mechanical specification, MG describing it as a “bold leap forward” in design, innovation, and performance.
Like the MG 3, it is all new and represents a generational change for the model MG revealing it has meticulously rebuilt the vehicle from the ground up, “infusing it with cutting-edge technology, enhanced safety features, and a level of sophistication that truly sets it apart in its class”.
Mr Belcher enthused the new HS is more than just the introduction of a new vehicle saying it is a statement of MG’s vision for the future of mobility.
“We believe that every Australian family deserves access to a vehicle that combines style, performance, safety, all underscored by outstanding value,” he continued.
“The new HS embodies this belief, offering an unparalleled driving experience that allows you to enjoy every journey to its fullest.”
Mr Belcher said MG is keen to see the impact the new MG HS will have on Australian roads as “we are confident that it will quickly become a cornerstone for families nationwide, setting a new standard in the mid-size SUV segment”.
“Finally, we understand that owning a vehicle is about more than just the initial purchase. That’s why the all-new MG HS comes with an industry-leading 10-year/250,000-kilometre warranty,” he added.
“This comprehensive coverage is a testament to our confidence in the quality and durability of our vehicles, and it ensures that you can drive with absolute confidence, knowing that we’ve got your back.”