MG HS PHEV: A Premium Plug-in Hybrid SUV Review 

But for someone digging into the expanding hybrid SUV market in India, the MG HS PHEV is already a snappy and green-proud choice – two cars in one: easily-kissing-the-earth electric car for the city crawl, and long-legged petrol power for highway runs. 

Demonstrated at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, this smart upgrade over a regular petrol SUV is the premium compact SUV from Binu Jacob’s JSW MG Motor India. It claims over 100 km in electric-only range and more than 1,000 km of total range with no fear of losing power.

Slated to go on sale from November 28, 2025, at an initial price of approximately ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom), it will rival the likes of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Jeep Compass Hybrid directly. Here’s my buyer-focused take on design, performance, features and overall value

MG HS PHEV: Design and Everyday Practicality

The MG HS PHEV nails the balance between modern design and daily usability. It’s bold without being overdone — featuring sleek, aerodynamic lines, 19-inch diamond-cut alloys, and a glossy black grille framed by sharp LED headlights. At 4,571 mm in length and with a 2,725 mm wheelbase, it’s compact enough for city use yet spacious for family trips. 

Its 200 mm ground clearance also handles India’s rough patches and monsoon potholes confidently.

The cabin impresses right away. Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays for the cluster and infotainment make it feel futuristic, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplifying navigation. Nappa leather seats, a 507-litre boot (expandable to 1,487 litres), and thoughtful touches like a power tailgate, wireless charger, and dual-zone climate control enhance comfort.

Families will appreciate Level 2 ADAS features — adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and auto emergency braking — making highway drives safer. I’d give the interior a 9/10 for comfort and practicality, though an extra set of rear AC vents would have perfected it.

Performance and Efficiency: Where Hybrid Tech Shines?

For anyone tired of petrol pump visits, the MG HS PHEV’s hybrid setup feels like liberation. It pairs a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (147 PS, 250 Nm) with a 90 kW electric motor, delivering a combined 302 PS and 432 Nm through a 10-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). The result? Smooth acceleration and a 0–100 km/h time of 6.8 seconds, minus the usual hybrid lag.

Its 21.4 kWh (or 24.7 kWh) battery enables over 100 km pure-electric range, covering most daily commutes. The overall combined range is better than 1,000 km and the car’s efficiency per l of fuel works out to be 20-22 km/l; you end up saving ₹5,000-7,000 a month compared to you would blowing on a diesel SUV!

The ride is pleasant and pretty well-controlled, too – it handles bumps nicely. The regenerative breaking is natural feeling and the top speed of 164kh/h offers enough highway confidence. A 7-year/1.5 lakh km battery warranty and over-the-air updates future-proof the ownership experience – which should result in healthy resale value.

Price, Variants, and Ownership Costs

At an expected price of ₹45–55 lakh (ex-showroom), the HS PHEV feels premium yet attainable for upper-middle buyers seeking hybrid versatility. On-road in Delhi, prices could touch ₹50–61 lakh, with possible state incentives for hybrids.

Estimated EMIs OR ₹ / month @ 8.5% for 5 years per lakh Insurance would be about -1-1.5 lakhs each year. Running costs are low: ₹1–2/km in EV mode, and ₹5–6/km with the hybrid system working—even 30–40% less than petrol SUVs. MG’s 500+ service centers add convenience, though I’d still negotiate a free home charger on purchase.

Safety and Reliability: Family Peace of Mind

The MG HS PHEV secures a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating, equipped with 7 airbags, ESC & TPMS and Level 2 ADAS tech. MG’s liquid-cooled battery system – keeps the battery running in optimal conditions with the least risk of overheating. 360° camera and transparent view make parking easier. Reliability looks better since its partnership with JSW, and early testers say it’s a well built thing — almost up to Hyundai benchmark levels.

Pros and Cons: Real Buyer Insights

Pros:

• 100 km EV range you really feel the fuel savings.
• Interiors pretty premium & ADAS seem to be segment leading.
• Roomy, sensible design a great family hauler.
• 7 year battery warranty for long term peace of mind.

Cons:

• The base price (₹45 lakh+) may put off the first-time buyer.
• Lack of charging infrastructure in most cities, on the other hand.
• Service area not as broad yet as legacy brands.
• Maybe iffy on launch dates — double check before booking.

Final word – should you buy the MG HS PHEV?

And for a customer like me, who is balancing performance with the practicalities of daily life and concerns about eco-perception, there’s definitely an appeal to a hybrid experience on offer from MG HS PHEV. Featuring a combination of robust electric range, comfy interior and luxury features that brings it to Tucson levels without full-EV compromises.

Priced neat at ₹45–55 lakh and with sales beginning on November 28, the 2025 is well worth a test drive – particularly in the Excite trim, which strikes the best balance of features and value.

If you’re ready to go hybrid without the hassle of range anxiety, the MG HS PHEV could easily be the SUV that makes hybrids mainstream in India.