Vehicle Description

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

The 2024 MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy is a plug-in hybrid SUV that blends practicality, efficiency, and luxury. As the flagship trim in the MG HS lineup, the Trophy model delivers an impressive mix of premium features, a smooth hybrid powertrain, and exceptional value for money, making it an appealing choice for families and eco-conscious drivers alike.

Exterior and Design
The MG HS Trophy boasts a bold and refined design that gives it strong road presence. Key exterior highlights include:

A striking chrome-accented grille with the MG logo prominently displayed.
Sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights for a modern look.
Gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing the car’s sporty aesthetic.
Chrome roof rails and window surrounds for a premium touch.
A dynamic rear design featuring LED taillights and a sporty roof spoiler.
The Trophy trim adds exclusive touches, such as unique badging and upgraded styling cues, giving it a polished, high-end feel.

Interior and Comfort
Inside, the MG HS Trophy offers a spacious and luxurious cabin with plenty of high-end materials and thoughtful design elements. Key interior features include:

Leather-style upholstery with contrast stitching for a sophisticated look.
Heated and electrically adjustable front seats, with added lumbar support for the driver.
A panoramic sunroof, flooding the cabin with natural light and enhancing the sense of space.
A spacious rear cabin with ample legroom and headroom, comfortably accommodating five passengers.
A 448-litre boot, expandable to 1,375 litres with the rear seats folded, making it practical for family trips or larger loads.
The cabin feels premium and well-insulated, with soft-touch materials used throughout and an ergonomic layout designed for long-term comfort.

Technology and Features
As the range-topping trim, the Trophy model is loaded with advanced technology to enhance convenience and connectivity. Notable features include:

A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Integrated satellite navigation with real-time traffic updates.
A 12.3-inch digital driver display, providing customizable and clear driving information.
Wireless phone charging and multiple USB ports.
A premium sound system for an enhanced audio experience.
Keyless entry and a powered tailgate for added convenience.
The infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, though it may not feel as refined as some high-end rivals.

Performance and Hybrid Powertrain
The MG HS Trophy is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 258 bhp. The powertrain is paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, providing responsive performance in both petrol and electric modes.

0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds.
Top speed: 118 mph.
Electric-only range: Up to 32 miles (WLTP).
The plug-in hybrid system enables seamless transitions between petrol and electric power, offering strong acceleration and a refined driving experience. The all-electric range is ideal for daily commutes, while the petrol engine provides added flexibility for longer journeys.

Driving Dynamics
The MG HS Trophy focuses on comfort and refinement, offering a smooth and composed ride. Key driving characteristics include:

A well-tuned suspension system that absorbs bumps and uneven roads effectively, ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers.
Light steering that makes it easy to maneuver in urban settings, combined with good stability at motorway speeds.
Regenerative braking, which captures energy to recharge the battery while providing smooth braking performance.
While it’s not a sporty SUV, the MG HS Trophy delivers a confident and relaxing drive, making it ideal for families and long-distance travelers.

Efficiency and Running Costs
Thanks to its plug-in hybrid system, the MG HS Trophy is highly efficient:

Fuel economy: Up to 155 mpg (WLTP) with regular charging.
CO2 emissions of 43 g/km, making it eligible for lower road tax and benefit-in-kind rates for company car drivers.
Charging: A 7kW home wall box can fully charge the battery in approximately 4.5 hours.
With the ability to drive in electric-only mode for shorter trips, the MG HS Trophy significantly reduces running costs for urban commuters.

Practicality and Space
The MG HS Trophy is highly practical, with features designed for family life:

The 448-litre boot provides ample space for shopping or luggage, while folding the rear seats creates a flat loading area for larger items.
Wide-opening doors and a high seating position ensure easy access for passengers.
Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin, including cupholders, door bins, and a spacious glovebox, add to its everyday practicality.
The plug-in hybrid system is neatly integrated, meaning there’s no loss of interior or boot space.

Safety Features
The MG HS Trophy is equipped with the comprehensive MG Pilot suite of advanced safety features, including:

Adaptive Cruise Control with traffic jam assist.
Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning.
Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
A 360-degree parking camera and front/rear parking sensors.
These features contribute to the MG HS’s strong safety credentials, making it a reassuring choice for families.

Reliability and Warranty
MG backs the HS Trophy with its industry-leading 7-year/80,000-mile warranty, providing long-term peace of mind. The plug-in hybrid system is well-proven, and MG’s growing reputation for reliability further reinforces the car’s appeal.

Conclusion
The 24-plate MG HS 1.5 T-GDI PHEV Trophy 5dr Auto Hatchback is an impressive plug-in hybrid SUV that delivers a luxurious and practical driving experience at a highly competitive price. With its advanced technology, comfortable interior, and efficient hybrid powertrain, it’s an excellent choice for families or professionals looking to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on space or features.

Verdict: A stylish, efficient, and feature-packed plug-in hybrid SUV offering exceptional value for money. Perfect for eco-conscious drivers seeking comfort, practicality, and versatility.