I tested the all-wheel drive version of the MG HS Essence, which lists for $40,990, $4000 more than the front-wheel drive.
Unless you’re spending a lot of time on dirt tracks or icy roads the front-wheel drive version is the pick of the two.
Coming standard is the proximity key, 10.1-inch screen, adaptive cruise control, leather seats, roof rails, leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors, headlights, sat nav, dual-zone climate control, heated and power adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, a power tailgate and 18-inch alloys.
That $41K ask is pretty pricey. Sure, it’s the top-of-the-range MG HS, but much of the standard features are available on the Excite grade in front-wheel drive for $32,990.
There’s no family-focused reason for stepping up to the Essence, is what I’m saying.
Also, did you know you can buy a mid-spec Toyota RAV4 with a hybrid system for $39,915? Promise me you’ll shop around, okay?
The HS Essence is covered by MG’s seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, a couple of years longer than most carmakers offer in this market.
Servicing is recommended every 12 months or 10,000km. Here are the costs for the first seven years: 10,000km ($279.04); 20,000km ($382.44), 30,000km ($330.23); 40,000km ($437.54); 50,000km ($279.04); 60,000km ($800.66) and 70,000km ($279.04).
The annual average servicing cost of $398.28 is expensive compared to the capped prices of some rivals.
MG says that after a combination of open and urban roads the all-wheel drive Essence with its 2.0-litre engine and six-speed dual clutch should use 9.5L/100km.
After a week of mainly city driving I used 13.6L/100km, which is close to the 13.1L/100km MG says you should see after just urban running.
That’s on the thirsty side compared to most of its rivals, especially the hybrid RAV4.