From the stables of MG, comes an all new crossover positioned above the GS in the brand’s lineage to take on the much acclaimed Hyundai Santa Fe, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV-4. Offering a nice interior and stylish exteriors, it is arguably the best looking crossover in the segment and one which would draw many eyeballs towards it.
EXTERIOR
Juding by images released online, the front is characterized by a masculine grille which looks menacing and has been synonymous with MG’s current models. The aggressive headlamps slope towards the grille and are tempting to say the least. The front end houses pentagonal fog lamps which illuminate nicely and are followed by a lower grille which serves as a air intake with massive spaces in it.
Looking at it from the side, you are likely to notice its hunkered down stance and bulky rear fender to provide it with more substance. The rest of the side profile is crisp and bare bones as there is an aluminum strip running across the doors at the bottom and plastic cladding all around to give it a beefed up look.
At the rear, the swooping tail lamps instantly remind you of the BMW X1 and that’s a good thing. On the whole, we appreciate the diligent effort made by the folks at SAIC Motor. Grap a scale and the car’s proportions are: 4574 mm in length, 1878 mm in width and 1685 mm in height. The wheelbase stands at 2720 mm.
INTERIOR
The interior of the HS looks rather special. On the top, you will find a large 10.3” touchscreen infotainment system having controls for navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, etc. On the safety front, the HS is likely to get some contemporary features such as Lane Departure Warning System, blind spot assistance and rear cross traffic alert and the usual stuff of dual airbags, ABS and EBD.
Being marginally longer than the GS, we expect a generous amount of leg room to open up and two adults in the back could sit in absolute comfort. Rear AC vents and a sunroof are likely to lighten up the rear seat experience.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
Following what the HS has to offer in other markets, it is likely to enter the UAE with two turbocharged power plants on offer. The standard variants could be available with a 1.5 liter turbo engine good for a 170 hp while the top-spec trim could be offered with a 2 liter 220 hp motor. There is a 6 speed automatic gearbox on offer and also a 7 speed dual clutch which we assume would make for a wieldy driving experience and also augment its fuel efficiency and one that you should opt for. However, considering its weight and size, with the 170 hp version, you wouldn’t be asking for more as it would enable the car to propel forward without the engine feeling strained and can save some money here.
VERDICT
As mentioned above, the HS is MG’s answer to the popular Honda CR-V and Hyundai Santa Fe. While it might not be as rugged looking as those, it brings with it, its own set of party tricks, has a unique charm and boy they have got the philosophy right. It is compact, has a rich looking cabin and seems to be frugal as well. If priced right, it has what it takes to sell in our region and would surely become a car you would want to have a glimpse of. However, you would first need to rid yourself of all preconceived notions.
