2024 MG HS spied in Malaysia - launch soon for new C-segment SUV?

The MG HS has been spotted in Malaysia, signalling a possibly imminent launch to bolster the brand’s SUV offerings here, which is currently only served by the smaller and fully electric MG ZS EV.

It appeared to be in transit alongside a more svelte sedan, thought to be the MG5, but despite the covers meant to cloak its presence, the cars managed to be identified. Looks like we’re in for at least two new models to join the MG Malaysia lineup.

Judging from its front end design, the HS seen here appears to be the first generation model, originally launched in 2018 and was given a facelift in 2020. A much newer model premiered for the 2024 model year with extensive upgrades, though clearly that won’t be on the cards for markets in our region for some time.

If you were wondering what HS means, in the words of SAIC themselves.

The HS in Malaysia is widely expected to carry over many similarities from the units currently sold in Thailand with the C-segment crossover powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission to drive the front wheels exclusively. However, it remains to be seen if the units headed our way will have rolled off MG’s Thai assembly plant.

Thailand also gets the MG HS in PHEV form, which utilises the same 1.5L turbo married to an 122PS electric motor that draws from a 16.6kWh battery pack. Power its upped significantly to a combined system output of 284PS and 480Nm of torque, all while delivering an advertised electric-only range of 67km and a 0-100km/h sprint of 7.5 seconds.

With a wheelbase of 2,720mm, the MG HS boasts the potential to offer a roomier cabin than even the Honda CR-V with 2,700mm between its axles.

In its highest trim, highlights of the Thai-spec HS include a panoramic sunroof, 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, full digital instrument display, an 8-speaker BOSE sound system, and a full suite of ADAS features via the MG Pilot suite.

Assuming it arrives soon, it will be met by a few strong competitors in the form of the obvious local favourite, the Proton X70, as well as the newer Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Other rivals such as the aforementioned Honda CR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross, however, are probably priced a notch higher.