Vehicle Description

MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy 5dr Auto Hatchback Review (24 Plate)

The 2024 MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy is a compelling option for those looking for a practical, stylish, and eco-friendly hybrid vehicle. Combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, the MG HS offers an impressive blend of performance, efficiency, and advanced technology. The Trophy trim adds a premium feel, with plenty of features that elevate the driving experience. Here’s a closer look at the MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy 5dr Auto Hatchback.

Performance and Efficiency
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, providing a combined output of around 258 horsepower. This gives the car a strong performance profile, with brisk acceleration and enough power to handle most driving situations with ease. The automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, and the powertrain provides a quiet, refined driving experience, especially in electric-only mode.

In electric-only mode, the MG HS PHEV can cover around 32-35 miles on a full charge, making it an ideal option for short commutes or city driving. For longer trips, the petrol engine kicks in to extend the range, providing a total driving range of around 400-450 miles. The car’s ability to switch seamlessly between electric and petrol power makes it a versatile option for both urban and long-distance driving.

The PHEV system also offers regenerative braking, which helps recharge the battery during deceleration, improving overall efficiency. On the whole, the MG HS PHEV is well-suited for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance or convenience.

Interior and Comfort
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy offers a comfortable and spacious cabin that’s well-equipped for family trips or long drives. The front seats are supportive, with ample adjustability and high-quality upholstery. The Trophy trim comes with leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury to the interior. There’s also plenty of legroom and headroom, making the front seats comfortable even on longer journeys.

The rear seats offer generous space, with enough room for two adults to sit comfortably, and three passengers can manage for shorter trips. The flat floor adds to the comfort, and the rear seatbacks can be folded down to increase the already decent boot space. The MG HS PHEV offers around 448 litres of boot capacity with the seats up, which is competitive for the class. The boot is wide and deep, providing plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or larger items. With the rear seats folded, this expands significantly, offering great flexibility for those who need to carry bulkier loads.

The cabin is designed to be practical, with plenty of storage compartments, cup holders, and a central armrest for added convenience.

Technology and Features
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy is packed with advanced technology that enhances both convenience and driving experience. The 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the centerpiece, providing access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite navigation. The interface is sleek, easy to navigate, and offers quick responses, making it easy to control media, navigation, and other settings on the go.

The digital driver display provides key information about the hybrid powertrain, including battery levels, energy usage, and driving efficiency. This helps drivers optimize their driving habits to get the best out of the car’s hybrid system.

Safety is a major focus with the MG HS PHEV, and the Trophy trim includes an array of advanced driver assistance features as standard, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. These systems work together to enhance safety and convenience, making long journeys or busy city driving much easier and less stressful.

Driving Experience
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy offers a smooth, composed, and comfortable driving experience. The combination of the turbocharged petrol engine and electric motor ensures plenty of power for everyday driving, with enough performance for quick overtakes and confident motorway cruising. The car can run in electric-only mode for short trips, delivering a near-silent driving experience with smooth acceleration.

On the road, the MG HS PHEV feels well-balanced and stable. The steering is responsive and easy to handle, making it agile in urban environments. While it’s not designed for spirited driving, it offers a comfortable ride with good suspension that soaks up road imperfections well. The cabin remains quiet, even at higher speeds, thanks to the electric motor’s refinement and the soundproofing in the car.

The regenerative braking system in the PHEV mode helps to recharge the battery, adding to the car’s overall efficiency and providing a more engaging driving experience for eco-conscious drivers. The Eco driving mode prioritizes energy conservation, while the Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and makes the driving experience a bit more engaging.

Verdict
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy 5dr Auto Hatchback is an impressive PHEV that offers a great balance of power, efficiency, and practicality. The hybrid system provides a generous electric-only range, and the petrol engine ensures that you never run out of power for longer trips. The driving experience is smooth, and the cabin is spacious and comfortable, making it ideal for families or those who frequently travel longer distances.

The Trophy trim adds a premium feel with its high-quality materials, advanced tech features, and safety systems. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the inclusion of a digital driver display is a great touch, giving the car a modern, tech-savvy vibe.

For those who are looking for an eco-friendly vehicle with the flexibility to drive long distances without worrying about range, the MG HS PHEV is a strong contender. With its combination of stylish design, performance, comfort, and technology, the MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy offers great value for money and is a solid choice for anyone looking to make the switch to a plug-in hybrid vehicle without compromising on space or driving experience.