Updated MG HS medium SUV debuts

MG MOTOR has revealed its next-generation HS SUV this week, the mid-size model a rival to the likes of the popular Toyota RAV4 and available with both petrol and plug-in hybrid engine options.

Due in Australian showrooms before the end of the year, the HS is based on SAIC’s Roewe RX5 with its own frontal treatment and interior aimed at differentiating the model as an MG.

The HS is marginally larger than before measuring 4636mm in length (+26mm), 1890mm in width (+14mm), and with a 2750mm wheelbase (+30mm). It is also 30mm lower in terms of height (now 1635mm). Cargo capacity grows 44 litres to 507 litres.

While pricing and specification are yet to be detailed, GoAuto understands features include: LED headlights, dual 12.3-inch instrumentation and infotainment screens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, native sat nav and a new three-spoke steering wheel.

Optionally, the HS is understood to offer 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera system, a four-way power adjustable passenger seat, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry and ignition and front seat heating.

Safety technologies are likewise extensive with adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, door exit warning, lane centring and lane keep assistants and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.

Power is expected to arrive courtesy of an updated 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine developing 125kW of power (+6kW) and 275Nm of torque (+25Nm) paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

A stronger 2.0-litre petrol unit with conventional nine-speed automatic transmission is also known to be in the works.

Further, the HS will offer a plug-in hybrid alternative combining a 105kW 1.5-litre petrol engine and 154kW electric motor with a 24.7kWh battery. The system will provide up to 120km of all-electric driving range and a 0-100km/h time of 6.8 seconds.

“The HS continues to drive positive brand momentum, year-on-year for us globally and locally,” said MG Motor Australia chief commercial officer Giles Belcher.

“The MG HS has been embraced by Australian families since its arrival, and the latest HS promises to redefine expectations once again.

“The new HS continues MG’s commitment to versatility and innovation, with local specifications to be announced at launch in H2 this year (2024).”

VFACTS data shows sales of the budget-friendly MG HS are down considerably against the same time last year falling 65.3 per cent to just 1618 YTD.

The Medium SUV under $60K segment in which the HS competes is currently topped by the Toyota RAV4 (25,405 units sales to the end of June 2024), Mitsubishi Outlander (14,443), and Mazda CX-5 (11, 920).