The MG HS I 1.5 T-GDi (162 Hp) DCT represents MG Motor’s entry into the competitive compact SUV segment, launched in 2019 and continuing through 2020. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the HS lineup, this variant aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and modern technology. It was primarily marketed in Europe, the UK, and select Asian markets, offering a more sophisticated alternative to established competitors. The HS, itself a rebadged version of the Roewe RX5, marked a significant step for MG, showcasing a more contemporary design and feature set than previous models. This particular configuration, pairing a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was intended to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of driving enjoyment and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | HS |
| Generation | HS I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDi (162 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 162 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-4400 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4400 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1516-1563 kg (3342.21 – 3445.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2023 kg (4459.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-507 kg (1014.13 – 1117.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 463 l (16.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1454 l (51.35 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the HS I 1.5 T-GDi is the 15E4E engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a single turbocharger and direct fuel injection. This engine is part of MG’s newer engine family, designed for improved efficiency and performance. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The turbocharger provides a boost in power, delivering 162 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4400 rpm. The engine features a relatively high compression ratio of 11.5:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. Paired with this engine is a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCTs offer faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The DCT in the HS I is tuned for a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-GDi DCT powertrain delivers a reasonably engaging driving experience for a compact SUV. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). The DCT provides quick shifts, minimizing power interruption during acceleration. Compared to potential manual transmission versions (not widely available in all markets), the DCT offers convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban driving conditions. However, some drivers may find the DCT slightly less engaging than a traditional manual gearbox. The engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, although it may feel slightly strained when fully loaded or during aggressive acceleration. The gear ratios are optimized for a balance of fuel efficiency and performance, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The HS I 1.5 T-GDi DCT typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of fabric and leatherette, with a focus on providing a comfortable and modern cabin environment. The dashboard layout was designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a clear instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The HS I utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The front suspension is designed to absorb bumps and irregularities in the road, while the rear multi-link suspension helps to maintain stability and control during cornering. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The braking system provides adequate stopping power for everyday driving conditions. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG HS I 1.5 T-GDi DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its value for money, spacious interior, and comprehensive feature list. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel slightly underpowered in certain situations, and the ride quality could be a bit firm on rough roads. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, such as the Nissan Qashqai or Kia Sportage, the HS I offered a competitive price point and a longer warranty. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 30.2 US mpg in combined driving conditions. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional mechanical problems.
Legacy
The MG HS I 1.5 T-GDi DCT played a crucial role in establishing MG as a viable competitor in the European and Asian SUV markets. While the model was relatively short-lived, it demonstrated MG’s ability to produce a modern, well-equipped, and affordable SUV. The 15E4E engine and DCT transmission have continued to be used in other MG models, showcasing their reliability and efficiency. On the used car market, the HS I 1.5 T-GDi DCT remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a budget-friendly and practical SUV. Its relatively low running costs and decent fuel economy make it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle.
