MG HS / HS PHEV / HS Hybrid — Brand and Model History

1. Brand Background

The MG brand originated in the United Kingdom in 1924, founded by Morris Garages.
Known for its classic British sports cars, MG became a symbol of driving passion and accessible performance.

In 2007, MG was acquired by SAIC Motor Corporation, one of China’s largest automotive groups.
Under SAIC, MG evolved from a traditional sports car manufacturer into a global smart mobility brand, offering a full range of ICE, hybrid, and electric vehicles.

2. Birth of the MG HS

Model Introduction

The MG HS is a compact SUV first introduced in 2018, succeeding the MG GS (also known as the MG GTS in some markets).
Built on SAIC’s SSA platform, the HS was designed to blend comfort, technology, and practicality for global consumers.

Design Philosophy

• The HS adopts MG’s “Emotional Dynamism” design language, combining British elegance with modern sportiness.

• The cabin emphasizes soft-touch materials and premium aesthetics, marking MG’s move into the higher-quality SUV segment.

Launch and Global Rollout

• China debut: September 2018

• UK launch: 2019 — quickly became MG’s best-selling SUV in the market

• Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia: Released between 2019 and 2020

  

3. MG HS PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid)

Global Debut

The MG HS PHEV was introduced in 2020, marking MG’s first globally sold plug-in hybrid SUV.
It combines a 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of approximately 190 kW (258 hp).

Powertrain and Performance

• Equipped with a 16.6 kWh battery pack, offering up to 52 km of pure electric range (WLTP).

• Uses SAIC’s 10-speed EDU intelligent electric drive transmission, providing both smooth acceleration and high efficiency.

Market Impact

• In Europe, the HS PHEV was MG’s first plug-in hybrid model and became a key driver of its electrification strategy.

• In Australia, it gained popularity for its combination of high equipment levels and competitive pricing, becoming one of the top-selling PHEVs in its segment.

  

4. MG HS Hybrid (HEV)

Positioning

The HS Hybrid (also known as HS HEV) is a self-charging hybrid version of the HS, primarily developed for Asia-Pacific markets such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia.
Unlike the PHEV, it does not require external charging.

Technical Features

• Powered by a 1.5T petrol engine paired with MG’s latest 10-speed EDU II hybrid transmission.

• Delivers a combined output of around 190 hp with fuel consumption as low as 5.8 L/100km.

Market Debut

• First showcased at the 2022 Thailand International Motor Expo, then rolled out to Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

• Competes with models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Haval H6 Hybrid in the family SUV segment.

  

6. Brand Significance

The MG HS family represents a pivotal step in MG’s transformation journey from combustion to electrified mobility:

1. MG HS — showcased MG’s ability to deliver global-quality SUVs.

2. HS PHEV — marked MG’s technological breakthrough in plug-in hybrid powertrains.

3. HS Hybrid (HEV) — strengthened MG’s reputation for efficient, family-friendly vehicles in global markets.

Thanks to the success of the HS lineup, MG established a strong foundation in Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia, paving the way for later models such as the MG4 EV and MG S5 in the brand’s global electrification strategy.

ASIAUTOS Genuine&Aftermarket Spare Part List of HS