MG HS I facelift (2021 – 2025)

Reliability score : 7.5/10

The facelifted first-generation MG HS (and its plug-in hybrid variant MG EHS) is a compact family SUV that marked the strong return of the Sino-British brand (SAIC Motor group) to the international stage. This 2021 facelift brought a more aggressive front end, inspired by the MG5 sedan, and a technological update. Positioned as a very well-equipped 'budget' alternative to the segment leaders (Peugeot 3008, Hyundai Tucson), it appeals with its roominess and its 7-year manufacturer warranty (in Europe). ⚠️ EXPERT NOTE REGARDING DIESEL: Although the request targets a diesel engine, the MG HS was never designed or marketed with a diesel engine, in any global market. The SAIC group made the strategic choice to focus exclusively on gasoline (T-GDI) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for this model. This

✅ Strengths

Unbeatable price/equipment ratio in the segment
Generous roominess and rear seat space
Well-crafted interior finish (soft-touch materials, sport seats)
Reassuring manufacturer warranty (7 years or 150,000 km in Europe)
Appreciable suspension comfort on long journeys

⚠️ Weaknesses

Total absence of a diesel engine (penalizing for very high-mileage drivers)
Slow, unergonomic infotainment system prone to bugs
Fuel consumption of gasoline engines (1.5T and 2.0T) above the competition
Clumsy road handling, steering lacking feedback
Gearbox management (DCT or EDU) sometimes erratic

🎯 Verdict

The facelifted MG HS (and EHS) is a pragmatic choice par excellence. It does not offer the dynamism of a Peugeot 3008 nor the energy efficiency of a Toyota RAV4, but it compensates with an aggressive price, abundant equipment, and a long-term warranty. The absence of a diesel engine forces high-mileage drivers to turn to the PHEV version (EHS), which is only relevant if charged daily. On the used market, it is a vehicle to buy with full awareness: aim for a model whose multimedia system has been updated and scrupulously check the maintenance history to retain the benefit of the 7-year warranty.

Common issues

Bugs et lenteurs du système d'infodivertissement Low

🔧 Dès l'acquisition

💶 0 € (mise à jour logicielle)

Tester le système avant achat, vérifier les mises à jour logicielles.

Problèmes logiciels nécessitant des mises à jour OTA Low

🔧 Dès l'acquisition

💶 0 €

S'assurer que le véhicule a reçu les dernières mises à jour.

Qualité perçue de certains matériaux intérieurs / bruits parasites Low

🔧 Dès l'acquisition – 20 000 km

💶 50 – 200 € (hors garantie)

Inspecter l'habitacle et tester sur route pour les bruits.

Dysfonctionnements occasionnels des systèmes d'aide à la conduite (ADAS) Low

🔧 Dès l'acquisition

💶 0 € (mise à jour) – 300 € (capteur)

Vérifier le bon fonctionnement des ADAS lors de l'essai.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	données insuffisantes
Complete brakes	données insuffisantes
Estimated annual budget	données insuffisantes

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.