The MG HS has made quite a splash in the UK, becoming the eighth best-selling new car of 2024.
This budget-friendly family SUV, starting at just £24,995, has outpaced rivals like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra.
But with a brand-new model now on the market, does it offer even better value for money?
What’s New with the MG HS?
Forget subtle updates—this is a complete overhaul.
The 2024 MG HS has grown in size, with a longer wheelbase and a wider stance. It’s also been lowered a bit, giving it a more athletic look.
The exterior features redesigned headlights, lightbars, and a new grille, while the interior has been upgraded with new materials and tech.
Under the hood, the HS now offers a new-generation 1.5-litre petrol engine with options for a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Prices for the manual start at £24,995, a modest £1,500 increase from the previous model.
The manual reaches 62mph in 9.4 seconds, while the automatic is slightly slower at 9.6 seconds.
For those interested in eco-friendly options, the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a 1.5 turbo petrol engine with a 154kW electric motor.
This variant starts at £31,095, offering up to 75 miles of electric driving.
It’s ideal for company car drivers due to its low benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax rate of 5%, fixed until 2025.
How Does It Drive?
We took both the manual petrol and the PHEV versions for a spin.
Despite being a budget SUV, the MG HS delivers a pleasant driving experience. The cabin is quieter and more comfortable than before, with improved noise insulation and a well-cushioned ride.
The manual gearbox is smooth, though the car does lag slightly under acceleration.
The PHEV, being heavier, handles bumpy roads a bit less gracefully but excels in electric-only driving for a serene city experience.
The updated driver assist systems include some new features like door warning alerts and a driver monitoring system, though the latter can be quite intrusive.
Many drivers may prefer to disable these features to avoid constant distractions.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
The 2024 MG HS offers even more space than its predecessor, which was already roomy.
With ample legroom and headroom, it comfortably accommodates tall passengers.
The boot has grown by 44 litres, now offering 507 litres with the seats up and 1,484 litres when folded down. This makes it more practical than the Ford Kuga and Nissan Qashqai, though the Hyundai Tucson still leads in cargo capacity.
The interior has received a premium makeover, with new materials and tech.
The previous TomTom screen has been replaced with dual 12.3-inch HD displays
The system offers multiple themes and modes, though some of the advanced driver assistance features can be more of a nuisance than a benefit.
Pricing and Availability
The MG HS continues to offer impressive savings compared to competitors. The entry-level ICE SE trim starts at £24,995, with the top-line Trophy trim ranging from £27,495 to £29,495.
The PHEV will be available in a month, starting at £31,495, with a conventional hybrid model expected early next year.
This pricing undercuts rivals like the Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai, and Hyundai Tucson by a significant margin, and with strong residual values, the HS remains a cost-effective choice for families.
The Verdict
If you’re in the market for a spacious and budget-friendly family SUV, the 2024 MG HS is a solid option. It’s not the most powerful or exciting to drive, but it offers great value and practicality.
The new design enhancements have elevated its appeal, making it a more attractive choice for those looking for a smart and economical family vehicle.
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