The automotive landscape is shifting rapidly toward electrification, and MG is making its mark with the upcoming HS Hybrid+. Set to arrive in Australian showrooms this September, this mid-size SUV represents MG’s first conventional hybrid offering in the segment, promising to deliver improved fuel efficiency without the range anxiety of fully electric vehicles.
Pricing That Makes Sense for Family Budgets
MG has positioned the HS Hybrid+ competitively in the Australian market, with pricing that won’t break the bank. The entry-level Excite variant starts at $42,990 drive-away, while the better-equipped Essence model commands $46,990 drive-away.
When you compare these prices to the current petrol versions—Excite at $40,195 and Essence at $43,285—you’re looking at a premium of just $2,795 to $3,705 for hybrid technology. That’s remarkably reasonable considering the fuel savings you’ll enjoy over the vehicle’s lifetime.
Performance Meets Efficiency
Powertrain Details
The HS Hybrid+ combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver impressive performance figures. The petrol engine produces 105kW and 230Nm, while the electric motor contributes 146kW and 340Nm. Together, the system generates 165kW of power and 340Nm of torque—more than enough for daily driving and highway overtaking.
Real-World Benefits
What does this mean for your daily commute? The hybrid system delivers a claimed fuel consumption of just 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers. With a 55-liter fuel tank, you’re looking at potential range of over 1,000 kilometers between fill-ups, making it ideal for both city driving and longer interstate trips.
Specification Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L turbo-petrol 4-cylinder hybrid |
| System Power | 165kW + 340Nm |
| Fuel Economy | 5.2L/100km (claimed) |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive only |
| Dimensions | 4670mm (L) x 1890mm (W) x 1655mm (H) |
| Cargo Space | 507L (seats up), 1484L (seats down) |
| Towing Capacity | 1500kg (braked) |
| Warranty | 10-year/250,000km (dealer serviced) |
Equipment and Features That Matter
Base Excite Model
The entry-level Excite doesn’t feel basic. You’ll get a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The infotainment system features a touchscreen display with smartphone connectivity, ensuring you stay connected on every journey.
Premium Essence Upgrade
Step up to the Essence variant, and you’ll enjoy additional comfort and convenience features like front parking sensors and a surround-view camera system. These additions make parking in tight city spaces much easier and provide extra peace of mind when maneuvering.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The hybrid mid-size SUV segment has become incredibly competitive. The Toyota RAV4 remains the sales leader, but the MG HS Hybrid+ offers a compelling alternative with its competitive pricing and comprehensive warranty coverage.
Unlike some competitors, the HS Hybrid+ is only available in front-wheel drive configuration. While this might disappoint some buyers seeking all-wheel drive capability, it helps keep costs down and improves fuel efficiency for the majority of buyers who rarely venture off sealed roads.
Safety and Peace of Mind
ANCAP Rating
The MG HS earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2024, though this currently applies only to petrol variants. The hybrid version should maintain this high safety standard given the shared platform and safety systems.
Warranty Coverage
MG backs the HS Hybrid+ with an impressive 10-year, 250,000-kilometer warranty—but there’s a catch. To maintain full coverage, you must service the vehicle within MG’s dealership network. If you choose independent servicing, the warranty reduces to seven years with unlimited kilometers.
Who Should Consider the HS Hybrid+?
This vehicle makes perfect sense for families seeking a practical, efficient SUV without the complexity of plug-in charging. If you drive primarily in urban environments with occasional longer trips, the hybrid system will deliver genuine fuel savings compared to traditional petrol engines.
The spacious interior and decent cargo capacity make it suitable for growing families, while the hybrid technology appeals to environmentally conscious buyers who aren’t ready to make the full electric switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the MG HS Hybrid+ be available in Australia?
A: The HS Hybrid+ is scheduled to arrive in Australian dealerships in September 2025.
Q: Does the hybrid system require special maintenance?
A: The hybrid system uses proven technology that requires no special maintenance beyond regular servicing. MG offers capped-price servicing, though specific pricing hasn’t been announced yet.
Q: Can I tow with the HS Hybrid+?
A: Yes, the HS Hybrid+ has a braked towing capacity of 1,500kg, making it suitable for boat trailers, caravans, and other recreational equipment.
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