Three derivatives with flagship just $6000 more than entry choice.

THREE 1.5-litre petrol editions will represent the new MG HS crossover here, with hybrids included an advanced plug-in hybrid type not showing until 2025.

MG NZ announced today the car will represent in a $36,990 Vibe as the entry choice, with a Excite and Essence siting above, at $39,990 and $42,990 respectively.

The Vibe grade has automatic LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch dual screen entertainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Excite adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera and ability to remotely controlling the air conditioner and heater via MG iSmart. In addition, the Essence provisions a sunroof, an eight-speaker audio system and wireless smartphone charging.

The MG Pilot safety suite provides adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection among its headline features.

At 4636mm long, 18900mm wide and 2750mm in wheelbase, the new HS is 26mm longer overall, 14mm wider and 30mm longer between the front and rear wheel – as well as 30mm lower. Boot capacity of 507 litres is cited.

The engine marries up to a seven-speed direct shift transmission and delivers 125kW and 275Nm, so slightly more power but 50Nm more torque than the outgoing car’s base engine.

The brand is citing economy of 6.9 litres per 100km, and emissions of 156 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

When HS was revealed internationally in July, the focus was on the hybrids, notably the PHEV, also involving a 1.5-litre petrol, from which the maker claims 120 kilometres’ electric-only range. That’s cited as a class-leading outcome and is well beyond the first generation car, which afforded 52kms battery-fed driving. Even though the new car sector is down 32 percent year on year, petrol-electric powertrains are nonetheless showing promise - unlike EVs, which are down 74 percent. But MG has indicated it cannot have its electric assist tech here until some time next year. An opportunity wasted?

This MG HS is a rework of another car from Roewe, another brand from the Shanghai Automotive stable. It has the same platform was the Roewe RX5 but gains unique front-end styling, with a similar grille as seen on the just released MG3, and a different interior.

In supplied moment, MG Motor Australia and New Zealand chief executive Peter Ciao said: “The MG HS has been completely re-engineered to redefine the mid-size SUV segment in New Zealand.

“At MG, our commitment is unwavering: we deliver exceptional value without ever sacrificing quality, innovation, or cutting-edge technology and safety. This new model exemplifies our dedication to excellence and our vision for the future.”