The MG HS I (facelift 2020) 1.5 T-GDi, producing 162 horsepower, represents a significant step forward for the MG brand in the compact SUV segment. Introduced in 2020 as an update to the original HS model, this variant aimed to offer a compelling blend of style, technology, and value, particularly within the European and Asian markets. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the HS lineup, it slotted between the base-model engines and potentially higher-performance trims (depending on regional availability). Production continued through August 2024, marking a relatively successful run for this iteration of the HS.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | HS |
| Generation | HS I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDi (162 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg, 32.1 UK mpg, 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 168 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 108.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.2 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 | 1495-1539 kg (3295.91 – 3392.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 463 l (16.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1454 l (51.35 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in.) |
| Width | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2078 mm (81.81 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the HS I 1.5 T-GDi is the 15E4E engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine also features an intercooler, which cools the intake air, further enhancing performance. The 15E4E engine produces 162 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4400 rpm. This broad torque curve provides good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 T-GDi engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, delivers a reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 9.6 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). While not a performance-oriented SUV, the engine provides sufficient power for comfortable highway cruising and city driving. The turbocharger does exhibit some lag at lower engine speeds, but the torque available from 1500 rpm helps mitigate this. The manual transmission allows for precise gear changes, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both fuel efficiency and performance. Compared to potentially available lower-powered engine options, the 1.5 T-GDi offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The HS I 1.5 T-GDi typically came equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were generally consistent across the range, featuring a modern design with a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The MG HS I utilizes 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 brakes are typically ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are often solid discs, depending on the specific trim level. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. 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 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design, spacious interior, and competitive pricing. Fuel economy figures of around 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) were considered respectable for its class. Compared to other compact SUVs in the market, the HS I offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting competitors on price while offering a similar level of equipment. Reliability reports were mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional build quality concerns. However, the powertrain itself proved to be relatively reliable.
Legacy
The MG HS I 1.5 T-GDi represents a pivotal moment for MG, demonstrating the brand’s ability to produce a modern, well-equipped, and competitively priced SUV. The 15E4E engine has proven to be a durable and efficient powerplant, and the HS I remains a popular choice in the used car market. While not without its flaws, the HS I 1.5 T-GDi established MG as a serious contender in the compact SUV segment and paved the way for future models.
