Yes, it’s news of another SUV. This time it is MG that has provided an update on its best-selling flagship SUV, with new images revealing a completely new design. It is a common theme across many brands that its interpretation of an SUV is often the most popular model to customers in its range, so we all need to get used to the idea that SUVs are here to stay in great numbers. And if you’re stuck on choice, the new MG HS SUV comes in two different specs.

On first look, the 2023 MG HS receives a facelift with changes to the front styling in the form of new bi-function LED headlights, a bold grille design and a new front bumper. It’s matched at the rear in the form of new LED taillights and bumper design, but with revised dual exhaust outlets, this provides a contemporary styling update.

Solid, metallic and tri-coat options of a seven-colour palette can be chosen from, with Urban Grey available for the first time within the HS range.

SE or Trophy specifications are offered here, which previously have proven popular with customers and critics in the MG4 EV and come comprehensively equipped.

Both are powered by a 1.5-litre, turbocharged petrol engine delivering up to 162PS. A manual gearbox is available as standard, with an optional dual-clutch DCT gearbox offered on both specifications.

In terms of price, the SE spec starts from £23,495 and is well stocked including bi-function LED headlights with front and rear sequential indicators for the first time, alongside air conditioning, sat nav, rear parking camera with sensors, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and a leather steering wheel as standard.

If the Trophy spec is more to your taste, you’re looking at a starting price of £25,995. This includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, ambient interior lighting, rear privacy glass and an upgraded 6-speaker audio system.

Both the SE and Trophy are equipped with MG Pilot, the company’s comprehensive package safety equipment which includes Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent High Beam Assist.

If you find that none of this is to your taste, don’t fear as the company will continue to offer the current plug-in hybrid MG HS PHEV model alongside the new 2023 HS Petrol.

In modern times, MG has prided itself on being one of the most affordable brands on the market across its range of hatchbacks, SWs and SUVs. It will be interesting to see whether this year’s version of the HS SUV will continue from the success of the previous version which has sold over 36,000 units since launch in 2019.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: MG