The concerns about a storied sports car brand building a sport utility vehicle (SUV) have long been put to rest. It turns out that knowledge base can transfer across, and sometimes create something special or, at minimum, lift the SUV over the standard conventions. The 2025 MG HS falls into the latter category.

EXTERIOR

The appearance of the HS is distinctive yet conservative. From the front, it boasts a large unmistakeable grille, flacked by LED daytime running lights, that marks it as an MG.

The rest of the profile and rear are a clean design that opts not to push the visual boundaries displayed in the nose. However, it does present a cohesive modern look.

INTERIOR

Like the outside, the cabin of the HS is also cohesive and modern. There’s an abundance of space, including the rear and trunk, with a good number of practical storage solutions.

Other than the dual 12.9-inch screens, the HS doesn’t overwhelm occupants with technology. The large majority of convenience features are just an infotainment menu away, able to be set to operate automatically. More commonly used and important functions are accessed via physical buttons. Interaction with either methodology is good, as switchgear has a quality feel, and the infotainment touchscreen operates smoothly with razor sharp graphics.

Connectivity is handled wirelessly or via the four USB ports around the cabin. Audio, from whatever input, is delivered authentically through the stereo system. Interior build quality is matched by the grade of soft touch materials covering key contact points, while contrast stitching, accent elements and patterns further lift an interior with more refinement than many class competitors.

ON THE ROAD

The MG touch can be felt here. In urban environments the HS functions smoothly. The 1.5-litre turbocharged engine disappears into the background pushing its 170bhp to the front-wheels through a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. No whiney CVT here. At low speeds the HS shifts seamlessly to ride its fat torque curve and can deliver 30mpg or more.

Keeping things safe and comfortable is the MG Pilot, a driver assist suite that has automatic cruise control all the way to 0km/h — perfect for high traffic, amongst its standout features.

For those who want to drive their HS, stepping deep into the throttle will unlock the rest of the power. There are no drive modes, only SPORT for the transmission which causes the HS to shift faster and hold onto gears longer.

It’s not just about the engine performance. The chassis tuning is near perfect for Jamaican roads, being neither too stiff in the pursuit of sportiness, nor too soft to be a wallowing hunk of metal on twisty roads. The suspension is equal to or better than many premium models, having that magic quality of unbelievable compliance over the surface types that make up the Jamaican road network. From unpaved stretches to moon cratered sections, and the mirror smooth highways, the HS can be driven with confidence as it not only maintains impeccable body control, but is able to keep passenger comfort high simultaneously.

VERDICT

While the chunky leather wrapped steering wheel may give off some performance intention, the MG HS obviously not a sports car. Yet, the traits that make it a comfortable, practical, and frugal daily driver handling the usual urban slog or long distance treks allows it to be hustled at speed down smaller roads due to the cohesiveness of the suspension, power, and brakes.

The HS may not be driven fast for fun, instead only for necessity — like trying to beat the traffic coming back from the country, either way it’s up to the task, just make sure to warn passengers when the pace is going to be upped. Add in its sub six million-dollar starting price and the 2025 MG HS punches well above its weight in the compact SUV segment.

The MG HS boasts two prominent 12.3-inch high-definition screens. One controls infotainment features such as Apple CarPlay™, Android Auto™, while the other serves as a customizable digital instrument cluster. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The MG HS has a a longer wheelbase and increased size compared to its predecessor. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The boot capacity of the new MG HS is 507 litres, and can be increased to 1,484 litres with the seats folded down. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The MG HS creates a feeling of greater comfort and spaciousness. (Photo: Rory Daley)

Equipped with a reworked 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, the MG HS delivers 170 horsepower through a seven-speed, wet dual-clutch automatic transmission providing responsive acceleration and a dynamic driving experience. (Photo: Rory Daley)