MG as a brand continues to grow – outselling established brands over the last 18 months as buyers realise the value for money in its ZS SUV and small MG3 hatch. The growth is set to continue with a new mid-size HS SUV arriving in showrooms – the base model MG HS Vibe at $30,990 drive-away on face value a match for some of our best-selling mid-sized SUV’s . The equipment list on this Chinese-built MG SUV is comprehensive to say the least, especially in the higher-grade HS Excite model at $33,990 drive-away. I’m yet to drive it but a comprehensive examination of this new model shows high finish levels, equipment, interior room and features the equal or better of established models.

The MG HS is front-drive only, power comes from a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder with 124kW’s and 250Nm driving through a seven-speed automatic. The higher-grade Excite gaining a push-button sports mode and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The styling cues on this new MG SUV mimic Mazda, Hyundai and Volkswagen – its good looking, as I said very nicely finished – both grades get leatherette seats with red stitching, a 10.1 inch colour touch screen and Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Safety features abound including a reversing camera plus MG Pilot with active emergency braking, active cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and rear cross traffic alert. In sheer value terms this new MG HS SUV, especially in the higher grade Excite, is the burger with the lot.

I’m David Berthon.

Click PLAY to listen!

Download this podcast here