The compact SUV market is a battlefield these days, with new contenders popping up constantly. Amidst this flurry, MG launched its first compact SUV, the MG HS, back in September. With a whopping nine versions on offer, it's enough to make anyone pause and wonder: which one is right for me?
Let's break it down. The MG HS comes with two engine options: a 1.5T and a more potent 2.0T. The 1.5T is available in both manual and automatic transmissions, while the 2.0T is exclusively automatic, with choices between two-wheel drive and a more capable all-wheel-drive system. For those opting for the AWD, it features a multi-plate clutch limited-slip differential, allowing for a 50:50 power split between the front and rear wheels – handy for when the going gets a bit trickier.
MG clearly has its sights set on the 100,000 to 200,000 yuan segment of the compact SUV market, and the HS, with its price range of 119,800 to 189,800 yuan, certainly reflects that ambition. If you're curious about the nitty-gritty details of the car itself, there are other resources that dive deep into its features and driving dynamics, so don't hesitate to explore those.
When it comes to aesthetics, MG offers a solid palette. All models come standard with six exterior paint colors and three interior color schemes. Just a heads-up, the pearlescent white will add an extra 2,000 yuan to the sticker price. Overall, MG's color choices lean towards a youthful, vibrant feel, making sure your HS looks lively no matter how you mix and match.
Now, for the million-dollar question: which model to pick? Among the nine variants, the MG HS 30T automatic two-wheel-drive Trophy Burning Edition stands out as a particularly strong contender. For a city SUV, it strikes a great balance between meeting daily needs and offering excellent value. The two-wheel-drive setup is more budget-friendly than its AWD counterpart, and the 2.0T engine provides a reassuring level of power for both urban commutes and highway cruising.
If you're leaning towards the 1.5T models, the automatic two-wheel-drive Hormone Passion Edition, priced at 149,800 yuan, is a well-equipped choice that offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Comparing the power figures, the 2.0T engine boasts an impressive 62 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque more than the 1.5T. That's a significant difference, and if you're someone who appreciates a bit more oomph under the hood, the 2.0T is definitely worth considering. The 1.5T, on the other hand, is perfectly suited for drivers who don't have a pressing need for extreme power.
What's truly remarkable about the MG HS, especially when you look at its competitors, is the standard equipment list. It's generous, almost to a fault. Even the base models come equipped with features like a rearview camera, brake force distribution, cruise control, hill descent control, an electric panoramic sunroof, keyless start and entry, heated mirrors, and rear air vents. The only minor concession on the absolute entry-level 1.5T is the use of halogen headlights, which, given the price point, is quite understandable.
Essentially, the core features across the range are consistent, starting from the 20T manual two-wheel-drive Hormone Extraction Edition (priced at 119,800 yuan) and extending to the lowest-spec automatic transmission model, the 20T automatic two-wheel-drive Hormone Extraction Edition.
