Mg Has Unveiled the New Mg Hs Suv at Goodwood.

MG has unveiled the new MG HS SUV at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, marking a major step forward in design, technology, and performance. The refreshed model features a bold exterior, upgraded interior, and enhanced hybrid powertrain, positioning it as a strong contender in the competitive compact SUV market.

The automotive world was buzzing with excitement this summer as MG took center stage at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to unveil the all-new MG HS SUV. Known for its blend of style, performance, and value, MG has long been a favorite among drivers seeking something different from the mainstream. But this latest iteration of the HS isn’t just a refresh—it’s a full-scale reinvention. With a bold new look, cutting-edge technology, and a plug-in hybrid option, the 2024 MG HS is setting a new benchmark in the compact SUV segment.

Held annually in West Sussex, England, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world. It’s where manufacturers debut their most exciting models, celebrate engineering milestones, and showcase the future of driving. For MG, choosing this platform to reveal the new HS was a strategic move. It signals confidence, ambition, and a clear message: MG is no longer just a budget brand—it’s a serious player in the global SUV market.

From the moment the new MG HS rolled down the famous Goodwood hill climb, it was clear this wasn’t the same SUV that first launched in 2019. The design is sharper, the stance is more aggressive, and the overall presence is undeniably premium. But it’s not just about looks. Under the hood, under the skin, and inside the cabin, the new HS has been reimagined to meet the demands of modern drivers who want performance, efficiency, and technology—all without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

• Bold New Design: The updated MG HS features a striking front grille, sharper LED headlights, and a more aggressive stance, giving it a premium and modern look.
• Hybrid Powertrain Option: For the first time, the MG HS offers a plug-in hybrid variant, delivering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions without sacrificing performance.
• Advanced Tech Features: The SUV comes equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance systems.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: With more legroom, premium materials, and enhanced sound insulation, the cabin offers a refined and quiet driving experience.
• Improved Driving Dynamics: Revised suspension and steering tuning provide better handling and ride comfort, making it ideal for both city and long-distance driving.
• Competitive Pricing: Despite the upgrades, MG maintains an affordable price point, offering excellent value compared to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Hyundai Tucson.
• Goodwood Debut Significance: Launching at the Goodwood Festival of Speed highlights MG’s commitment to performance and innovation in the modern automotive landscape.

Bold New Exterior Design

The first thing you notice about the new MG HS is its striking exterior. MG has completely overhauled the front end, replacing the previous softer lines with a bold, angular design that commands attention. The signature octagonal grille has been enlarged and reshaped, now featuring a honeycomb pattern that gives it a sporty, high-performance vibe. Flanking the grille are new LED matrix headlights with dynamic turn signals, adding a futuristic touch and improving nighttime visibility.

Moving along the sides, the HS features more pronounced character lines that run from the front fenders to the rear, creating a sense of motion even when the vehicle is stationary. The wheel arches are more muscular, housing new 19-inch alloy wheels with a dual-tone finish that enhances the SUV’s athletic profile. At the rear, the new LED taillights are connected by a light bar, giving the HS a wider, more planted appearance. The dual exhaust tips and rear diffuser further emphasize its sporty character.

One of the standout design elements is the available panoramic sunroof, which spans nearly the entire length of the roof. It not only floods the cabin with natural light but also gives the HS a more open and airy feel. For those who prefer a darker aesthetic, MG offers a black roof option, along with contrasting body colors like electric blue, fiery red, and metallic silver.

MG’s design team worked closely with global studios to ensure the new HS appeals to a wide range of tastes. “We wanted to create a vehicle that looks confident and modern,” says David Allmark, MG’s Head of Design. “It should turn heads whether it’s parked in a city center or cruising down the motorway.” And it does just that. The new HS doesn’t try to blend in—it stands out, and that’s exactly what many buyers are looking for.

Hybrid Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Performance

One of the most significant upgrades in the new MG HS is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. This marks a major step forward for MG, as it’s the first time the HS has been offered with hybrid technology. The PHEV version combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 296 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque.

This setup allows the HS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds—impressive for a compact SUV. But what’s even more impressive is its efficiency. With an electric-only range of up to 32 miles (WLTP), drivers can complete most daily commutes without using a drop of petrol. That means lower fuel costs, reduced emissions, and eligibility for government incentives in many countries.

Charging is simple and convenient. The HS PHEV supports both AC and DC fast charging. Using a 7kW home wallbox, the battery can be fully charged in about 2.5 hours. With a 50kW DC fast charger, it takes just 30 minutes to reach 80% capacity. For those who don’t have access to home charging, the petrol engine automatically recharges the battery during driving, ensuring you’re never left stranded.

The hybrid system is also smart. It uses predictive energy management, which analyzes navigation data and traffic conditions to optimize when to use electric power and when to switch to petrol. For example, if you’re heading into a low-emission zone, the car will prioritize electric mode to keep emissions to a minimum.

Drivers can choose from several driving modes: Electric, Hybrid, Sport, and Eco. Electric mode is perfect for city driving, offering silent, zero-emission operation. Hybrid mode balances power and efficiency for everyday use. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and increases engine output for a more dynamic drive. And Eco mode maximizes fuel economy by limiting power and adjusting climate control settings.

The non-hybrid version of the MG HS continues to offer a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with 162 horsepower, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While not as efficient as the PHEV, it remains a solid choice for drivers who don’t need or want a plug-in option. Both engines are designed to meet the latest Euro 6d emissions standards, ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

Step inside the new MG HS, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels more like a luxury vehicle than a budget SUV. The centerpiece is the new 12.3-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, which runs MG’s latest iSMART connected car platform. The interface is intuitive, with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can mirror your smartphone screen without fumbling with cables.

The system also includes built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates, voice recognition, and over-the-air software updates. This means your HS can receive new features and improvements without needing to visit a dealership. For example, MG recently rolled out an update that added a new ambient lighting theme and improved voice command accuracy.

Below the screen, physical buttons for climate control and audio functions are neatly arranged, ensuring ease of use while driving. The digital instrument cluster is also 12.3 inches, offering customizable displays that show everything from speed and fuel level to navigation directions and driver-assistance alerts.

One of the standout tech features is the 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle. It’s especially useful when parking in tight spaces or navigating narrow country lanes. The system includes dynamic guidelines that move with the steering wheel, making it easier to judge distances.

For audiophiles, MG has partnered with premium audio brand Bose to deliver a 10-speaker sound system. The setup includes a subwoofer and advanced noise-canceling technology, creating a rich, immersive listening experience. Whether you’re streaming music, taking a hands-free call, or listening to a podcast, the sound quality is top-notch.

Connectivity extends beyond the cabin. The MG iSMART app allows owners to remotely control various functions of the vehicle. You can start the engine, lock or unlock the doors, check fuel levels, and even pre-condition the cabin temperature—all from your smartphone. It’s a small touch, but one that adds a lot of convenience, especially on cold winter mornings or hot summer days.

Spacious and Comfortable Interior

The new MG HS has grown slightly in size, offering more interior space than its predecessor. Rear passengers benefit from an additional 15mm of legroom, making long journeys more comfortable. The seats are upholstered in premium synthetic leather with contrast stitching, and higher trims feature real leather with heating and ventilation functions.

The cabin is designed with a focus on comfort and practicality. There are plenty of storage compartments, including a large center console, door pockets, and a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones. The front seats are power-adjustable with lumbar support, and the driver’s seat includes memory settings on top models.

One of the most noticeable improvements is the level of sound insulation. MG has added extra acoustic glass and additional sound-deadening materials to reduce road and wind noise. The result is a cabin that’s noticeably quieter than before, especially at highway speeds. This makes conversations easier, music sound better, and long drives more relaxing.

The rear seats can be folded in a 60:40 split, expanding the boot space from 448 liters to a maximum of 1,375 liters. The boot floor is adjustable, allowing you to create a flat loading surface or hide valuable items out of sight. There’s also a hands-free power tailgate, which opens when you wave your foot under the bumper—perfect when your hands are full.

For families, the HS includes ISOFIX child seat anchors in the rear, along with rear air vents and USB charging ports. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space, making the cabin feel open and airy. And with ambient lighting in 64 colors, you can set the mood to match your drive—whether it’s a calming blue for a night journey or a vibrant red for a spirited drive.

Enhanced Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety has always been a priority for MG, and the new HS raises the bar with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The vehicle comes standard with MG Pilot, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The adaptive cruise control works at speeds from 0 to 150 mph, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and even bringing the car to a complete stop in traffic. Lane-keeping assist gently steers the car back into its lane if it begins to drift, while blind-spot monitoring alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot with visual and audible warnings.

For added peace of mind, the HS includes a driver attention monitor that tracks steering patterns and alerts you if it detects signs of fatigue. There’s also a traffic sign recognition system that displays speed limits and other road signs on the instrument cluster.

Higher trims add even more safety tech, such as highway assist, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering to provide semi-autonomous driving on motorways. There’s also a parking assist system that can automatically steer the car into parallel or perpendicular spaces—great for nervous parkers or tight urban spots.

All of these features contribute to the HS’s 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which it achieved in independent crash tests. The body structure uses high-strength steel in key areas, improving crash protection while keeping weight down. Six airbags are standard, including side curtain airbags that protect both front and rear passengers.

MG has also introduced a new emergency call system that automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a serious accident. It transmits the vehicle’s location and crash data, helping responders arrive faster and provide better care.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The new MG HS isn’t just about looks and tech—it’s also a pleasure to drive. The suspension has been retuned for better ride comfort and handling. The front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link setup absorb bumps and potholes with ease, while still providing enough body control for spirited driving.

Steering is precise and well-weighted, with a quicker ratio that makes the HS feel agile in city traffic. The electric power steering system adapts to speed, becoming lighter at low speeds for easy maneuvering and firmer at high speeds for stability.

The PHEV version benefits from instant torque from the electric motor, giving it a responsive feel off the line. The transition between electric and petrol power is seamless, with no jerky shifts or loss of momentum. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in the petrol-only model is smooth and quick, with paddle shifters for manual control.

Braking is strong and consistent, with regenerative braking in the PHEV helping to recharge the battery during deceleration. The brake pedal has a natural feel, inspiring confidence whether you’re slowing for a roundabout or coming to a stop in heavy traffic.

On the road, the HS feels planted and secure, with minimal body roll in corners. It’s not a sports car, but it handles better than many of its rivals. Whether you’re weaving through city streets or cruising on the motorway, the HS delivers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

Pricing, Trim Levels, and Availability

The new MG HS is available in three trim levels: Core, Exclusive, and Trophy. The Core model starts at £27,995, offering a generous list of standard features including the 12.3-inch infotainment screen, LED lights, and MG Pilot safety suite. The Exclusive trim (£30,995) adds leather seats, a Bose sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The range-topping Trophy (£34,995) includes all features plus adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera, and premium interior finishes.

The PHEV version starts at £36,995 for the Core trim, with Exclusive and Trophy versions priced at £39,995 and £42,995 respectively. While more expensive than the petrol models, the PHEV qualifies for a £2,500 UK government plug-in grant, reducing the effective price.

MG has also introduced a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty, which is one of the best in the industry. It covers the entire vehicle, including the battery in the PHEV, giving buyers peace of mind.

The new MG HS is now available to order across the UK, with deliveries starting in September 2024. MG expects strong demand, particularly for the PHEV model, as more drivers look to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.

Conclusion

The unveiling of the new MG HS SUV at the Goodwood Festival of Speed marks a turning point for the brand. With its bold design, advanced hybrid powertrain, cutting-edge technology, and impressive driving dynamics, the HS is no longer just a budget alternative—it’s a genuine contender in the compact SUV market.

MG has listened to customer feedback and delivered a vehicle that’s more refined, more efficient, and more enjoyable to drive. Whether you’re a family looking for space and safety, a commuter seeking efficiency, or an enthusiast who wants a bit of performance, the new HS has something to offer.

At a time when the automotive industry is shifting toward electrification and connectivity, MG is proving that innovation doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag. The new MG HS is a testament to what’s possible when a brand combines ambition, engineering, and value.

So, if you’re in the market for a compact SUV that stands out from the crowd, the new MG HS is definitely worth a closer look. It’s not just a new model—it’s the future of MG.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the new MG HS SUV unveiled?

The new MG HS SUV was officially unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2024. The event provided a high-profile platform to showcase the vehicle’s design and technology to a global audience.

Does the new MG HS come with a hybrid option?

Yes, the new MG HS introduces a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain for the first time. It combines a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, offering up to 32 miles of electric-only range.

What technology features are included in the new MG HS?

The MG HS features a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 360-degree camera, Bose audio system, and the MG iSMART app for remote vehicle control.

How much does the new MG HS cost?

The petrol version starts at £27,995, while the PHEV starts at £36,995. The PHEV is eligible for a £2,500 UK government grant, reducing the effective price.

What safety features does the MG HS have?

The MG HS comes with MG Pilot, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Is the new MG HS available now?

The new MG HS is available to order now, with first deliveries expected in September 2024. It’s offered in Core, Exclusive, and Trophy trim levels across the UK.