Vehicle Description

MG HS 1.5 T-GDI Trophy 5dr Hatchback (73 Plate) Review

The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI Trophy is a flagship model in MG’s mid-size SUV range, offering a blend of premium features, practicality, and affordability. With a sporty design, a well-equipped interior, and a solid petrol engine, the Trophy trim is aimed at families and professionals who want a stylish and versatile vehicle that doesn’t break the bank.

Exterior and Design
The MG HS Trophy has a bold and sporty exterior that sets it apart in the competitive SUV market. Key design highlights include:

A striking honeycomb-patterned grille with chrome detailing and the MG badge prominently displayed.
LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights, giving it a modern and dynamic appearance.
Sporty 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its road presence.
Chrome roof rails and window trims for a premium touch.
A sculpted rear with LED taillights, a sporty roof spoiler, and dual exhausts for a performance-inspired finish.
The Trophy trim adds exclusive styling cues that enhance its sporty and premium appeal, making it a head-turner on the road.

Interior and Comfort
Step inside the MG HS Trophy, and you’re greeted with a spacious and luxurious cabin. Key interior features include:

Leather-style upholstery with contrast stitching for a premium feel.
Heated and electrically adjustable front seats for added comfort.
A panoramic sunroof, flooding the cabin with natural light and enhancing the sense of space.
Ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, with generous space in the rear for taller occupants.
A 463-litre boot, expandable to 1,454 litres with the rear seats folded, offering excellent practicality for family trips or bulky items.
The cabin is thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout that ensures comfort during long journeys.

Technology and Features
The MG HS Trophy is packed with advanced technology and convenience features, making it a great value proposition. Standout features include:

A 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Built-in satellite navigation for easy route planning.
A 12.3-inch digital driver display, providing crisp and customisable driving information.
Wireless charging and multiple USB ports for added convenience.
Dual-zone climate control for personalised comfort.
A 360-degree parking camera and rear parking sensors for hassle-free manoeuvring.
The infotainment system is user-friendly, though it may lack the polished responsiveness of some premium competitors.

Performance and Engine
Under the bonnet, the MG HS Trophy is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 162 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, the engine provides a smooth and responsive driving experience.

0-60 mph: 9.9 seconds.
Top speed: 118 mph.
The turbocharged engine offers enough power for city commutes, motorway cruising, and overtaking, making it a versatile choice for a range of driving conditions.

Driving Dynamics
The MG HS Trophy focuses on comfort and ease of driving, with features that enhance the overall experience:

A well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and uneven surfaces effectively, providing a smooth ride for passengers.
Light steering that makes manoeuvring in urban areas effortless, while offering good stability at higher speeds.
Predictable handling with minimal body roll, making it confident on twisty roads.
While not a sporty SUV, the MG HS Trophy strikes a balance between comfort and everyday usability, appealing to families and commuters.

Fuel Economy
The 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers a combined fuel economy of around 36-38 mpg, depending on driving conditions. While it’s not class-leading in efficiency, it’s respectable for a mid-size SUV with this level of performance.

Practicality and Space
Practicality is one of the MG HS’s strong suits, with features designed to suit family life:

The 463-litre boot is spacious enough for everyday errands, luggage, or shopping trips.
Folding the 60/40 split rear seats creates a flat loading area for larger items.
Numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, including cupholders, door bins, and a centre console, make it easy to store smaller essentials.
The high seating position and wide-opening doors also make access easy for passengers of all ages.

Safety Features
The MG HS Trophy is equipped with the MG Pilot suite of advanced safety features, ensuring a high level of protection for occupants. Key features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control with traffic jam assist.
Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning.
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Attention Warning.
These features contribute to the MG HS’s strong safety credentials, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Reliability and Warranty
MG offers an industry-leading 7-year/80,000-mile warranty, ensuring long-term reliability and peace of mind. The HS Trophy is backed by MG’s growing reputation for dependable and affordable vehicles, making it a sound choice for buyers seeking value for money.

Conclusion
The MG HS 1.5 T-GDI Trophy 5dr Hatchback (73 Plate) is a well-rounded SUV that combines style, comfort, and practicality with a strong focus on value. Its premium features, spacious interior, and advanced safety technology make it an excellent choice for families or individuals looking for a versatile and modern vehicle. While it may not offer the sharpest driving dynamics, it excels in comfort and usability, making it a reliable and affordable option in the mid-size SUV segment.

Verdict: A stylish, comfortable, and feature-rich SUV that offers exceptional value for money. Perfect for families and commuters who prioritise practicality and affordability without compromising on modern features.