MG is bringing a significant upgrade to the Australian market with the all-new HS SUV. This next-generation model boasts a more modern look inside and out, promising a more competitive offering in the popular mid-sized SUV segment. Scheduled for arrival in the latter half of 2024, the newHS SUV replaces the current version launched in early 2020.
Increased Size with a Sleeker Profile
The new HS SUV takes on a larger footprint compared to its predecessor. Measuring 4636mm long (+26mm), 1890mm wide (+14mm), and retaining a 2750mm wheelbase (+26mm), it offers increased passenger and cargo room. However, MG highlights a 30mm reduction in height, contributing to a sleeker overall profile.
The interior gets a substantial upgrade with the centerpiece being a dual 12.3-inch screen setup. One screen acts as a digital instrument cluster, providing clear and customizable driver information. The other serves as a touchscreen infotainment system, likely featuring the latest MG connectivity features.
Details Under Wraps, But Powertrain Options Emerge
While MG Australia remains tight-lipped on many details surrounding the new HS SUV, some insights have emerged. The design incorporates MG’s new corporate face, similar to the recently launched MG 3. The body itself borrows heavily from the Roewe RX5, a sibling brand under SAIC Motor, the parent company of MG.
Powertrain specifics for the Australian market are yet to be confirmed. However, expectations lean towards a launch with a petrol engine first, followed by a plug-in hybrid option later. Local testing of petrol models suggests potential variants with either a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission or a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a nine-speed torque-converter automatic.
Government approval documents hint at a possible five-variant petrol lineup, with three featuring the 1.5-liter engine and the remaining two sporting the 2.0-liter option.
Looking at the Chinese RX5 counterpart, the 1.5-liter turbo engine is expected to deliver 138kW of power and 300Nm of torque. This represents a significant jump of 19kW and 50Nm compared to the outgoing HS 1.5T. The 2.0-liter option, though not available in the Chinese RX5, could be borrowed from the soon-to-be-launched MG 7 sedan. This engine promises 192kW of power and 405Nm of torque, a substantial increase from the outgoing HS SUV 2.0-liter.
Plug-in Hybrid a Question Mark
The RX5 offers two choices in China for its plug-in hybrid powertrain, with varying electric-only ranges. Whether either of these options will make it to Australia remains unclear.
The price increase for the new HS compared to the outgoing model is yet to be revealed. Currently, the HS starts at $29,990 before on-road costs, while the HS Plus EV is priced from $49,690 drive-away.
Interestingly, despite the mid-sized SUV segment being the largest by volume in Australia, the current MG HS is the least popular model in the MG lineup. With only 1618 units sold during the first half of 2024, a significant decrease of 65.3% compared to the same period last year, MG has its work cut out to turn the tide.
This new generation HS SUV, with its larger size, potential power boost, and modern features, aims to rectify this situation. MG’s decision to adopt Roewe models for the Australian market, a practice already common in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, could be a strategic move to offer a wider range of competitive vehicles.
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