The MG HS II 1.5T GS6 (170 Hp) is a compact SUV produced by the British-born, now Chinese-owned automaker MG Motor. Introduced in August 2024, this variant represents a key offering within the HS II range, positioned as a balance between performance and affordability. It builds upon the foundation of the HS model, which itself was a significant step for MG in establishing a presence in the competitive European and increasingly, North American SUV markets. The HS II, and specifically this 1.5T GS6 trim, aims to provide a feature-rich and stylish option for buyers seeking a practical and modern vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | HS |
| Generation | HS II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T GS6 (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 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 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Power | 170 Hp |
| Torque | 275 Nm (202.83 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | GS6 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 507 l (17.9 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1484 l (52.41 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4655 mm (183.27 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2066 mm (81.34 in.) |
| Height | 1664 mm (65.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The MG HS II 1.5T GS6 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated as the GS6 engine code. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, boosting performance. The engine produces 170 horsepower and 275 Nm (202.83 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions, and a particulate filter to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The vehicle is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering drivers a more engaging driving experience compared to automatic options available in other HS II trims.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T GS6 offers a reasonably responsive driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.9 seconds is respectable for a compact SUV in this class. The 6-speed manual transmission allows for precise gear selection and control, enhancing driver engagement. Compared to higher-output versions of the HS II, this variant offers a more economical driving experience, but with a slight trade-off in outright acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and everyday drivability, providing adequate power for highway cruising and city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GS6 trim level typically includes a comprehensive suite of standard features. These commonly include alloy wheels (typically 19-inch), LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a reversing camera, and a range of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery is generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Depending on the market, additional features like a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) may be available as optional extras. The GS6 trim is positioned as a mid-range offering, providing a good balance of features and value.
Chassis & Braking
The MG HS II utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The braking system typically consists of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG HS II 1.5T GS6 has been generally well-received by automotive critics as a value-for-money proposition. Its competitive pricing, combined with a generous level of standard equipment, makes it an attractive option in the crowded compact SUV segment. Fuel economy figures of around 31.8 US mpg (combined WLTP) are competitive with other similarly sized gasoline-powered SUVs. Compared to other HS II trims, such as those with automatic transmissions or higher-output engines, the 1.5T GS6 offers a more affordable entry point and a more engaging driving experience for those who prefer a manual gearbox. Reliability reports are still emerging, but early indications suggest that the HS II is a reasonably reliable vehicle.
Legacy
The MG HS II 1.5T GS6 represents a significant step forward for MG Motor in terms of design, technology, and overall quality. While long-term reliability data is still being gathered, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine has proven to be a robust and efficient powerplant in other MG models. As the HS II gains traction in the market, the 1.5T GS6 variant is likely to become a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical, affordable, and well-equipped compact SUV. Its position as a manual transmission option in a segment increasingly dominated by automatics may also appeal to a niche group of driving enthusiasts.
