Ah, the MG HS—a car that promises to merge luxury, performance, and affordability. MG, a marque that once oozed British charm, is now revitalized under Chinese ownership. The result? A surprisingly well-rounded SUV that punches above its weight, especially in Malaysia’s competitive market. But, as with any vehicle, it comes with a few compromises.
Under the bonnet lies a 1.5L turbocharged engine producing 162 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission, it’s sprightly enough for city commutes and spirited highway drives. But is it a performance car? Not quite. The transmission, while quick on open roads, feels clunky in stop-and-go traffic, leading to occasional jerks that detract from the driving experience.
However, engage Super Sport Mode, and the HS perks up. Sharper throttle responses, higher RPM shifts, and sporty ambient lighting create an illusion of a snarling beast. A fun feature, but one you might not use often unless you’re late for your teh tarik session.
Step inside, and the HS greets you with premium finishes: soft-touch materials, leather seats, and ambient lighting that screams “Look at me, I’m fancy!” Yet, while it dazzles at first glance, hard plastics in less obvious areas undermine its claim to luxury. Rivals like the Mazda CX-5 deliver a more cohesive premium feel.
The cabin is spacious, comfortably seating five adults. The panoramic sunroof floods the space with light, making long journeys less tedious. Tech-wise, it ticks all the boxes: a 10.1-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a fully digital instrument cluster.
MG has crammed the HS with advanced safety features. Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, and a 360-degree camera all come as standard in the Luxury variant. Add to that ISOFIX mounts, six airbags, and a strong body structure, and it’s a reassuring package for family buyers.
However, the MG HS lacks hybrid or diesel options, which some buyers may prefer for their fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness.
For families looking to lower their carbon footprint, this might be a missed opportunity.
On Malaysian roads, the HS impresses with its ride comfort. Thanks to its multi-link rear suspension, it glides over potholes with ease. But spirited cornering reveals its limitations—body roll creeps in, reminding you this is a family-oriented SUV rather than a performance vehicle.
The HS is also quite heavy for its class, which, while adding to stability, affects fuel efficiency. Real-world fuel consumption is often higher than the claimed 6.9L/100 km, particularly in urban conditions.
With prices starting at RM 129,000 for the Standard variant and going up to RM 145,900 for the Luxury trim, the MG HS undercuts many rivals like the Proton X50 and Honda HR-V. However, MG’s relatively limited service network in Malaysia could lead to inconveniences for owners outside major cities.
The car does come with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, which helps offset concerns about maintenance. But for resale value, the HS may struggle to retain its worth compared to long-established brands like Honda or Toyota.
The MG HS is not without flaws—it’s a tad heavy, the transmission lacks refinement, and the interior doesn’t always match its premium aspirations. Yet, for what it offers at its price, it’s a compelling package. It’s the kind of car that makes you feel you’ve snagged a bargain, even if you occasionally have to overlook a few quirks.
So, should you buy it? If you’re after a stylish, tech-packed SUV that doesn’t cost a fortune, absolutely. Just don’t expect it to replace your weekend sports car or deliver hybrid-level efficiency.
In short, the MG HS is like your favorite nasi lemak—reliable, satisfying, and packed with good value, but occasionally missing a sambal or two.
