The MG HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI (258 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic, launched in 2020, represents MG Motor’s entry into the competitive plug-in hybrid SUV market. Positioned as a premium offering within the HS lineup, this variant combined a turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver both efficiency and performance. It was primarily aimed at the European and Asian markets, offering a compelling alternative to established PHEV rivals. The HS I, representing the first iteration of the HS model, utilized the MG’s then-current design language and technology, aiming to re-establish the brand’s presence in key automotive regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | HS |
| Generation | HS I |
| Type (Engine) | EHS 1.5 T-GDI (258 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.8 l/100 km (130.7 US mpg, 156.9 UK mpg, 55.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 43 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 148.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 16.6 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 14.9 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Inside the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 52 km (32.31 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 63 km (39.15 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 122 Hp @ 3700 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 500-3700 rpm) |
| Electric motor Torque | 230 Nm @ 500-3700 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| System power | 258 Hp |
| System torque | 370 Nm (272.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 162 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1700-4300 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1700-4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15E4E |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1737-1775 kg (3829.43 – 3913.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2196 kg (4841.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421-459 kg (928.15 – 1011.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 448 l (15.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1375 l (48.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 l (9.77 US gal | 8.14 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4574 mm (180.08 in.) |
| Width | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2078 mm (81.81 in.) |
| Height | 1664 mm (65.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI utilized a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system was the 15E4E 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 162 horsepower and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. This engine featured direct fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Complementing the gasoline engine was a 122 horsepower electric motor, delivering 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output reached 258 horsepower and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 16.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, positioned under the trunk floor, provided an all-electric range of up to 52 km (32.31 miles) under WLTP testing. The powertrain allowed for various driving modes, including all-electric, hybrid, and sport, optimizing for efficiency or performance as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid Automatic offered a refined driving experience. In all-electric mode, the HS I provided near-silent operation and brisk acceleration for urban commutes. The electric motor’s instant torque contributed to responsive performance. When the gasoline engine engaged, the transition was generally smooth, although some drivers noted a slight increase in noise and vibration. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided seamless gear changes, optimizing engine efficiency and power delivery. Compared to lower-powered HS variants, the PHEV model offered significantly enhanced acceleration, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds. However, the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor did slightly impact handling agility compared to lighter HS models. The suspension tuning prioritized comfort, making it well-suited for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI typically came well-equipped as a premium trim level. Standard features often included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include premium audio systems, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior trim levels varied, with higher-spec models featuring more refined materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs were used at the rear. The braking system was enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The steering system employed an electric power steering (EPS) setup, offering light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its competitive pricing, generous standard equipment, and impressive all-electric range. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the WLTP-rated 1.8 l/100 km (130.7 US mpg) making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime or Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the MG HS offered a more affordable entry point. However, some critics noted that the interior materials and overall refinement were not quite on par with more established rivals. Reliability reports were still emerging during its initial production run, but early indications suggested a generally positive ownership experience.
Legacy
The MG HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI Plug-in Hybrid Automatic played a significant role in MG’s resurgence in the European and Asian markets. It demonstrated the brand’s commitment to electrification and provided a compelling alternative to established PHEV competitors. While the initial production run was limited to 2020, the HS model continued to evolve with subsequent iterations, incorporating updated technology and design features. On the used car market, the HS I EHS 1.5 T-GDI remains a relatively affordable and well-equipped PHEV option, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and efficient SUV with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The longevity of the battery pack and the overall reliability of the powertrain are key considerations for potential buyers, but early reports suggest that the system has proven to be reasonably durable.
