MG HS PHEV tops test of 59 Plug-in Hybrids

Last updated 1 week ago

Published: 5th June 2026

MG HS Plug-in Hybrid Named Best PHEV in Major Auto Express Megatest

“The best plug-in hybrid you can buy right now,” concludes Auto Express
Test victory follows back-to-back What Car? Plug-in Hybrid of the Year awards in 2025 and 2026
Advanced MG hybrid+ technology combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 24.7kWh battery delivering up to 75 miles of electric-only driving
Available in SE and Trophy trim levels from £32,495 and £34,995 OTR respectively, with a competitive 7% Benefit-in-Kind tax rate

5 June 2026 – The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) has added another major accolade to its growing list of achievements after being named the best plug-in hybrid available in the UK by Auto Express.

Following a comprehensive megatest involving 59 plug-in hybrid models available on the UK market, Auto Express awarded the MG HS PHEV first place overall, describing it as “the best plug-in hybrid you can buy right now.”

The latest recognition strengthens the MG HS PHEV’s position as one of the UK's most highly acclaimed electrified vehicles, following consecutive victories in the What Car? Car of the Year Awards, where it was named Plug-in Hybrid of the Year in both 2025 and 2026.

Commenting on the latest success, Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, said:

"Being named the best plug-in hybrid by two of the UK’s most respected motoring titles is seriously credible independent recognition for the MG HS PHEV. Coming top of 59 PHEV cars available in the UK and retaining the What Car? Plug-in Hybrid of the Year title for two consecutive years is an achievement everyone at MG is incredibly proud of. It is also a tribute to MG’s commitment to delivering advanced technology and great value for everyone."

Class-Leading Efficiency and Value

Designed to combine the benefits of electric and petrol power, the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid delivers smooth, efficient performance for both everyday commuting and longer journeys. Its advanced hybrid+ powertrain pairs a responsive 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 24.7kWh battery, enabling an official electric-only range of up to 75 miles.

Inside, the MG HS PHEV offers a spacious and premium cabin environment featuring twin 12.3-inch digital displays, intuitive connectivity, heated front seats as standard and the option of stylish tan leather-style upholstery. The result is a practical, comfortable and technologically advanced SUV designed for modern drivers.

Auto Express Megatest Victory

Published on 14 May 2026, Auto Express’s landmark plug-in hybrid megatest evaluated 16 different PHEV powertrains representing 59 UK-market models over three days of extensive real-world testing.

Vehicles were assessed across a range of criteria including electric-only driving range, fuel economy in hybrid mode, performance, refinement, handling and day-to-day usability.

The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid emerged as the overall winner, impressing judges with a real-world electric range of 68 miles, the longest achieved by any vehicle in the test despite several rivals featuring larger battery packs.

Auto Express also highlighted the MG’s outstanding value proposition. At £32,495 OTR, the MG HS PHEV was significantly more affordable than every other model in the top five rankings, while monthly leasing costs were reported to be up to £200 lower per month than the car that finished second.

The magazine praised the MG HS as “a decent car, at a terrific price” and commended its 295PS powertrain, efficient hybrid system, relaxed driving characteristics and intuitive digital interfaces, noting that its overall experience rivals that of more expensive German competitors.

For company car users, the MG HS PHEV’s placement in the highly attractive 7% Benefit-in-Kind tax band further enhances its appeal, making it a compelling option for both fleet operators and private buyers.

Back-to-Back What Car? Awards

The Auto Express triumph follows the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid’s unprecedented success at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards, where it secured the title of Plug-in Hybrid of the Year in both 2025 and 2026.

What Car? judges praised the MG HS PHEV for combining exceptional value with an impressive electric range, strong performance from its 295PS hybrid powertrain and a spacious, well-equipped interior.

Together, these industry-leading awards reinforce the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid’s reputation as one of the most complete and compelling electrified SUVs available today, delivering outstanding efficiency, practicality and value without compromise.