MG has revealed its new HS plug-in hybrid SUV, which is expected to land in Ireland before the end of this year.
The PHEV powertrain is paired with a 105kW (142ps) 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 154kW electric motor, offering 0-100km/h acceleration in 6.8 seconds. The motor draws power from a large 24.7kWh battery and high-efficiency 67kW generator which MG claims delivers an electric-only driving range of up to 120km – more than double that of the previous model.
The new MG HS will also come with a 1.5T petrol engine delivering 125kW (169ps) and 275Nm of torque, and equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed DCT automatic. It’s unclear however if this full-petrol model will be offered in Ireland.
Compared to the outgoing model, the new HS has a longer wheelbase for more interior space and refined exterior proportions with shorter overhangs, a rising shoulder line and a slim glasshouse. It is 14mm wider at 1,890mm and 60mm longer at 4,670mm, yet its new profile reduces its overall height by some 30mm. The wheelbase has been lengthened by 45mm to 2,765mm. Boot capacity has increased by 44 litres to a maximum of 507 litres.
While Irish spec has yet to be announced, the technology offering has evolved with the HS featuring two prominent 12.3-inch high-definition displays. The central display is dedicated to infotainment with live navigation services including weather, live traffic updates, access to Amazon Music, and smartphone connectivity via both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Some models also benefit from a new 360 degree surround view camera and wireless smartphone charging as standard.
The second 12.3-inch virtual driver display offers two themes – light and dark – and three distinct modes – Map, Digital, and ADAS. Each offers its own unique layout, focusing on either a rolling navigation display, a simplified summary of only the most important driving information, or a real-time visualisation of the vehicle and its surroundings, powered by the driver assistance systems.
All models in the range benefit from an enhanced MG Pilot package as standard, which comprises Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Door Open Warning.
