Today we’re back with an expert review of the locally assembled MG HS Essence. MG started its operations in Pakistan in 2020 with initial offerings of CBU units. With time, HS received an overwhelming response, with around 10,000 units sold. Due to its high-tech features and modern design, the HS became one of the most desirable crossovers in the market.
However, with the tightening of import restrictions, deliveries of the HS extended, creating uncertainty among customers regarding this brand. Finally, in December 2022, MG claimed a local assembly license, after which the CKD HS has finally rolled out. Today we will review this car in detail and find out whether it lives up to its expectations.
Drivetrain
The MG HS is equipped with a 1490cc 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing around 160 hp and 250 nm of torque. This engine is configured with a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission delivering power to the front wheels. Per our test, these power figures enable the HS to achieve 0 to 100 times in under 10 seconds.
Exterior
Starting with the exterior design, the front reiterates its British Heritage with a bold galaxy front grill, beautiful LED headlamps with dynamic projections, and chrome treatment around the fog lights. Sides feature 18-inch alloys carried from the CBU unit along with Michelin tyres from the factory.
The rear look is also pretty attractive, with well-integrated LED tail lamps and a mesh silver diffuser with dual exhaust outlets. Overall, the exterior is manageable and provides a rather elegant look.
Interior
One of the main selling points of this car is the interior. The modern layout, with ambient lights illuminating the cabin, makes the interior feel very premium and modern. The bucket-style seats add a pinch of sportiness, while aluminum-finished buttons indicate the quality of materials used on the inside.
The instrument cluster can opt-in for partial or fully digital displays, but the digital screen is a good frill to spend some extra bucks on. The infotainment system floats in the center with local maps now added in the Essence. As for the build quality, it is as good as the CBU, with no signs of cost-cutting. Overall, the interior of this CKD HS is no wonder; the best in class.
Features
As with the CBU, the HS Essence has a host of features. These include a panoramic roof, dual-zone climate control, electric seats, paddle shifters, three interior colour options, ambient lighting, an electronic parking brake, five driving modes, and much more.
Driver assistance features include the MG pilot, which incorporates its adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, 360-degree camera, blind spot monitor, hill start assist, hill descent control, parking sensors, etc. However, emergency braking and speed limit indication has been deducted from the CKD HS. Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brake distribution, and vehicle stability control.
Drive
Getting behind the wheels, the HS being turbocharged is very zippy on the roads. The dual-clutch transmission is prompt in delivering power, making it very fun to drive. Suspension is quite comfy for inter-city travel while providing stability on the highway.
Cabin insulation is impressive, while the Michelin tyres help absorb road noise greatly. Driver assistance features like 360-degree cameras benefit the driver and give a sense of security. If blindfolded, one cannot tell apart this local HS from the CBU without compromises.
Fuel Average
Opposing all the pros of the HS, the fuel average, on the other hand, is rather mediocre if compared to other crossovers. Within the city, it does 8 to 9 km/l at max with hi-octane, while on the highway, it goes up to 11 km/l if driven at constant speeds. This average further worsens if you really want to enjoy its power in its “Super Sport” mode.
Price
MG currently offers one variant of the CKD HS, which is priced at PKR 8,199,000.
Verdict
With a controversial initial run in the market, MG has now fully planted its feet in the market, opposing speculations of its exit. The local HS has proven its sustained quality and delivers what was promised by the company. MG is here to stay with a full-fledged production plant and a developing dealership network.
