MG’s next-generation Toyota RAV4 rival has been spotted in Australia ahead of its official launch later this month.
The Kindergarten will come here first with gasoline engines, followed by plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) first half of 2025.
The car will be offered in three versions.
This HS spotted in Ramsgate appears to be a base model, judging by the fabric upholstery. However, it still has dual 12.3-inch screens inside.
Petrol-powered HS models will be powered by a 125kW/275Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
A recent government filing suggests the HS will also be offered here with a 170kW turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Based on European specifications, the flagship model – which is likely to retain the Essence badge – will also include a surround-view camera, panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate, six-way power driver’s seat, eight-speaker audio system and wireless phone charging.
Compared to its predecessor, the new HS has a longer rear end and a bolder exterior design. Trunk space has increased by 44L to 507L.
Like the previous-generation HS, the new model offers a host of standard active safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Other driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limit assist and traffic jam assist.
It’s unclear how much of a price increase the new-generation model will be. The upcoming HS starts at $29,990.
The HS is the least popular model in the current MG range in Australia, despite the mid-size SUV segment being the largest sales segment in Australia.
MG sold 1,618 vehicles in the first half of 2024, down 65.3% year-on-year.
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