MG, the Chinese automotive brand, is set to unveil an upgraded version of its HS SUV at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new model is expected to be based on the Roewe RX5, a popular SUV in the Chinese market. The HS will continue to offer a petrol engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain, but with improvements to fuel economy and electric range. The current HS achieves around 38mpg and 32 miles of electric range, while the RX5 is claimed to achieve up to 43 electric-only miles.
The redesigned HS features a contemporary and sophisticated look, according to MG. The brand hopes that the upgraded SUV will boost sales of its bestselling model, which has already sold 14,161 units this year. In fact, MG’s total vehicle sales have increased by 12% year-on-year, with 35,732 vehicles sold in 2024. Prices for the HS start from £23,295.
MG’s general manager, Lu Jiajun, has emphasized the brand’s commitment to both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric cars. While MG experiences solid growth in EV sales, particularly in key export markets like the UK, Lu believes that many global markets still favor traditional vehicles. In line with this commitment, MG is planning a comprehensive upgrade of its combustion lineup, which includes the new MG 3.
However, the highlight of MG’s centenary year will be the launch of an electric SUV that will serve as the brand’s flagship model. This new SUV, which succeeds the MG Marvel R, will be based on the MSP platform and will offer various battery capacities of up to 150kWh. The brand plans to sell it in both left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive markets, including the UK.
Lu has expressed confidence in the new electric SUV’s appeal, stating that “the appearance of this car is great and the price will make it competitive.” MG UK commercial director Guy Pigounakis has hinted that the successor to the Marvel R will be a completely different car and may be priced around £45,000.
In addition to the HS and the electric flagship SUV, MG is also preparing a major upgrade to the interior of its MG 4 hatchback. This upgrade is expected to launch in the second half of 2024, just two years after the car’s arrival in Europe.
Overall, MG’s commitment to both ICE and electric cars, along with its efforts to improve its SUV lineup, indicate the brand’s determination to meet the evolving demands of global markets. With strong sales growth and the upcoming launch of its flagship electric SUV, MG is poised to make a significant impact in the automotive industry.