MG has had its share of ups and downs, but its latest incarnation is undeniably in the ascendancy. That’s because it is making cars that people want to drive, and it isn’t charging too much for them. Case in point, the MG HS SUV offers a seemingly ideal blend of practicality, running costs and kit.
What’s a used MG HS like inside?
Even the tallest caravan tow car owner will have no trouble fitting into the front of an MG HS. There’s excellent legroom and headroom, something we always look for in the best used tow cars, although the panoramic sunroof on the top-spec Exclusive models does pinch a little of that headroom. Most people will be absolutely fine, though.
It’s a reasonably positive tale in the back seats, too, because two people will enjoy the good headroom and legroom.
As before, however, the caveat about the panoramic sunroof applies, and occupants might also find that the comparatively high floor means their knees could be forced slightly higher than would be ideal.
If the HS has a weak spot inside, it’s the boot, which is noticeably smaller than those in its major rivals, including the Ford Kuga and the Seat Ateca.
However, the MG hits back with a huge range of kit – even entry-level cars come with keyless entry and start, automatic lights and wipers, a rear-view camera, leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control and dual-zone climate control. Go for the top-spec Exclusive and you can expect a powered tailgate, LED headlights and more.
How does an MG HS drive?
Two powerplants are available, a 1.5-litre petrol and a plug-in hybrid adding electrical assistance to the 1.5 motor. But the PHEV has the lower legal towing limit, so tow car buyers would be better off looking at the plain old 1.5 petrol version.
This has 162bhp and 184lb ft of torque, which the HS puts to good use in towing, easily holding the caravan speed limit of 60mph in top gear on the motorway. However, it won’t get up to 60mph very quickly, and the engine does sound put out when made to work hard.
The soft suspension gives a pleasant ride, but allows the caravan to move around a bit more than might be comfortable. Still, on the motorway, things remain composed.
When you’re driving unhitched, the HS is quiet and comfortable, although it can become a bit boisterous if you try to up the pace – the soft suspension struggles to keep everything under control. It’s best to take things easy, at which point you’ll stand a better chance of getting close to the official economy figure of 37.9mpg.
What you need to know about an MG HS
What can an MG HS tow?
- Kerbweight: 1539kg
- Towing limit: 1750kg
- Noseweight limit: 75kg
- 85% match: 1308kg
Running costs
- Insurance group: 16
- Annual VED; £180
- Average economy: 37.9mpg
- Interim/full service: £115/£160
- Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262
What to pay
- High – price: £29,000; model: 2022 1.5 T-GDI Excite; miles: 2000
- Sweet spot – price: £18,000; model: 2021 1.5 T-GDI Excite; miles: 14,400
- Low – price: £14,500; model: 2020 1.5 T-GDI Excite; miles: 54,000
MG HS trouble spots
Well, here’s something that doesn’t happen all that often – a vehicle that has never been subject to a manufacturer recall.
The MG HS has only ever been inside MG dealerships for routine servicing work, which is good news.
Owners have registered complaints about the infotainment system being laggy (or freezing altogether) and failing to pair up with mobile phones, and about how sluggish the automatic transmission can be to engage.
Alternatives to consider
A used Škoda Superb Mk3 is a spacious and well-equipped option that has a quiet and efficient drivetrain, while a used Hyundai Santa Fe Mk3 makes a great choice if you’re looking for some hassle-free towing, as it’s heavy, comfortable and capable. Another option to think about is a used Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer – it’s reliable and spacious, two important traits in a pre-owned towing vehicle.
Verdict
The MG HS is a perfectly reasonable car to live and tow with. The luxurious cabin is full of kit and feels well built, and items such as the reversing camera make life easier. It’s just a shame that the engine isn’t quite strong enough, the car’s driving manners aren’t as tied-down as they could be, and the boot’s a bit small.
Still, MG fans will point instead to the seven-year warranty, which will have a few years left on any car you’re looking.
Interested in a different type of towing vehicle? Then check out our guide to the best pick-ups for towing.
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