The MG EHS continues MG’s ethos of offering spacious, feature-packed vehicles at a significantly lower price than its competitors. However, even with its value-driven philosophy, the EHS remains a pricier offering compared to MG’s other models.
For 2024, MG’s plug-in hybrid SUV has been revamped to better compete in the crowded market of compact and family SUVs. But how does it stack up?
A Bigger, More Modern Design
The redesigned MG EHS now measures 4.67 meters in length, an increase of 10 cm over its predecessor. This added length gives it a more commanding presence on the road. The front end features MG’s wide signature grille, introduced with the MG3 city car and the compact ZS SUV, blending a modern aesthetic with MG’s evolving design language.
Underneath the hood, the EHS houses a 21.4 kWh LFP battery, a substantial improvement over the outgoing model’s 16.6 kWh capacity. This upgrade nearly doubles the all-electric range, now officially rated at 100 km (WLTP). While this figure remains unverified under real-world conditions, test drives on the winding roads of Corsica revealed that over 70 km of electric driving is easily achievable, which is impressive for this segment.
Discover the WLTP standards and how they’re measured.
Familiar Technology, Better Execution
The hybrid powertrain of the EHS uses a powerful 184 hp electric motor paired with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 143 hp. Together, they deliver a combined output of 272 hp. However, this figure doesn’t always translate into a thrilling driving experience. Power delivery is smooth but not exhilarating, making it more suited for everyday commuting than spirited driving.
At lower speeds (up to approximately 70-80 km/h), the electric motor does the heavy lifting, while the petrol engine primarily acts as a generator when needed. On highways, the petrol engine takes over as the primary power source, with both motors combining forces when extra power is required.
The two-speed automatic transmission generally keeps the petrol engine quiet, but wind and road noise are noticeable at higher speeds, detracting slightly from the overall refinement.
Learn more about MG’s hybrid technology.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
On the road, the EHS is as conventional as they come. Its soft suspension setup results in noticeable body roll during cornering and a forward dive under heavy braking. Despite these characteristics, the EHS remains composed and efficient, much like its smaller sibling, the MG ZS.
Comfort is a strong suit, particularly on long journeys, where the plush seats help counteract some of the harsher vibrations that can penetrate the cabin. However, the driving dynamics don’t quite match the standards set by premium competitors in the compact SUV segment, such as the Kia Sportage PHEV or the Hyundai Tucson.
A Spacious and Well-Equipped Interior
The MG EHS shines in terms of interior space, comfortably accommodating four adults. Rear passengers will appreciate the generous legroom and width, making the EHS an excellent choice for families.
While the cabin materials and build quality lag behind premium competitors, the overall presentation is clean and modern. A notable drawback remains the infotainment system, which suffers from occasional clunky translations and limited customization options.
Despite these shortcomings, the EHS impresses with its abundant standard equipment. Even the base model includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Opting for the high-end Luxury trim adds features like a 360-degree camera, a powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, and synthetic leather upholstery for an additional €2,000.
Explore the MG EHS full specifications.
Aggressive Pricing, Yet Still a Stretch
The EHS’s pricing starts at €37,990, with the fully loaded Luxury trim priced at €39,990. While significantly cheaper than competitors like the Kia Sportage PHEV (€45,440) and the Hyundai Tucson PHEV (€47,200), it remains a considerable investment for most buyers.
Comparisons with rivals reveal a mixed picture. While the MG ZS excels as a budget-friendly alternative to the Dacia Duster, the EHS struggles to deliver the same perceived value against slightly pricier, more polished competitors. For buyers already considering spending €38,000, it might be tempting to stretch their budget slightly for a more premium option.
Verdict: Value and Practicality for the Right Audience
The MG EHS strikes a balance between affordability and practicality, making it an appealing choice for families and fleet buyers prioritizing space, features, and hybrid efficiency. However, private buyers seeking a more upscale experience might lean towards rivals offering better refinement and performance.
What truly sets the EHS apart is MG’s 7-year/150,000 km warranty, a standout feature that adds significant peace of mind for prospective buyers.
Check out MG’s comprehensive warranty program.
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