By Ian Strachan.
For decades, the MG marque has been associated with sports cars, roadsters and sporty versions of saloons. So a big MG SUV – and a seven seater at that – came as a bit of a surprise.
MG’s Chinese owners have obviously decided that the badge has cache across all sectors. MG’s new model introduction programme has progressed at a startling pace, with new model after new model hitting the showrooms, covering a wide range of sectors.
The MGS9 is its biggest offering – and I mean big. This beast is nearly five metres long, offering plenty of space for seven adults and a lot of luggage capacity. It comes as a plug-in hybrid and the engine choice is easy – there’s just one.
But the MGS9’s biggest selling point is its price. I drove the top-of-the-range Premium spec version at £36,950 on the road, which undercuts its rivals easily – some by a huge amount. The lower spec Comfort is even better at £34,210 on the road.
But this is no poundshop Discovery. While it may not have off-roading four-wheel-drive capability, the MGS9 is superbly equipped, supremely comfortable and an enjoyable performer. Despite its affordability this vehicle can mix it with the big guys. You get a car that looks good and gives you an enjoyable and engaging drive.
The MGS9 combines a 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine with a 24.7kWh battery which can give you up to 62 miles of all-electric driving. It develops 299PS and will propel you from 0 to 60 mph in less than 9.5 seconds. It has low CO2 emissions of 18g/km, but has a 2000kg towing limit which is good news for those towing caravans or boats.
The design of the MGS9 is fairly conservative, but it’s still a good looker from all angles. My test car came in an attractive Camden Grey. Its side-on appearance is enhanced with sporty 20-inch alloy wheels.
The interior is where the MGS9 really scores. It is modern and well laid out. You get pleasant trim and seat materials including faux leather seats. The Premium spec also has heated and ventilated electrically adjustable front seats with massage function, heated, faux leather -trimmed multifunction steering wheel, and plenty of storage spaces around the cabin.
Luggage space is impressive. Even with all seven seats upright there’s luggage capacity of 332 litres. With the third row of seats folded you get 1026 litres, and with all but the front seats folded there’s a massive 2093 litres. There are vans with less carrying capacity.
Specification on the MGS9 Premium which I tested is exceptional, with a central 12.3-inch HD colour touch-screen, navigation system with 12-speaker Bose audio system, front fog lights, a panoramic electric sunroof, smart powered tailgate and a wireless phone charger.
There’s a range of safety technology including collision avoidance, lane keeping aid, active emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. The car was 16 advanced driver assistance systems which constantly monitor the road ahead. Using MG’s Pilot function you can customise the car’s driver assistance systems to personal preference.
Other features include all-round electric windows and door mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and headlights, rear parking sensors with 360 degree camera, tri-zone climate control and ambient lighting.
Handling on the MG is sure-footed and involving. Suspension is supple, giving driver and passengers a comfortable ride on most roads, although the biggest potholes did result in a startling thump.
At £36,050 for the Premium spec you certainly get a lot of car for your money. In addition you get MG’s seven year or 80,000 mile warranty.
