MG HS

The MG HS, launched in 2019, is the brand’s flagship family SUV, designed to compete directly with established class leaders like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage. Offering a significant step up in interior quality and refinement compared to the smaller ZS, it features a spacious, soft-touch cabin and an impressive list of standard equipment. In the UK, it has been a major sales success—even briefly becoming the UK’s best-selling car in early 2023—prized for its exceptional value for money and the reassurance of a 7-year/80,000-mile manufacturer warranty, particularly in its popular Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) guise. While mechanically sound, the MG HS has faced some notable "teething" issues and software niggles that used buyers should be aware of. The 7-speed dual-clutch (DCT) automatic gearbox paired with the 1.5-litre petrol engine is frequently criticized for being hesitant when pulling away from junctions or jerky at low speeds. Early PHEV models were subject to a safety recall regarding a carpet underlay that could overheat near an electrical ground stud, posing a potential fire risk. Additionally, the central touchscreen infotainment system can be frustratingly slow to boot up and prone to occasional freezing, and some owners report minor creaks from the panoramic sunroof frame over uneven UK roads. When buying a used MG HS in the UK, verifying a full MG main dealer service history is paramount to ensure the remainder of the 7-year warranty remains valid. Prospective owners should test drive automatic models specifically to evaluate the DCT gearbox’s low-speed behavior and ensure any available software updates to improve shifting have been applied. It is also vital to verify via the GOV.UK database that the PHEV safety recall has been completed. For the most straightforward ownership experience, the 1.5-litre petrol manual is the "safe bet," while the PHEV variant offers compelling tax advantages for company car drivers, provided it can be charged regularly at home.