2021 MG HS Review: Key Shot

The Core is the entry point to MG's midsize HS SUV lineup. Its starting price is $29,990.

Available in front-wheel drive only, the Core is powered by a 1.5kW/119Nm 250-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The Core has an official/combined fuel consumption figure of 7.3L/100km, compared to which we scored 9.5L/100km in the weekly test. All HS engine options require 95 octane medium quality unleaded gasoline.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a semi-digital instrument cluster, halogen headlights with LED DRLs, cloth seats and plastic wheel trim, push-button ignition (but no entry without key) and the full MG Pilot brand active safety package.

This package includes automatic emergency braking that works at speeds up to 150 km/h and detects pedestrians at speeds up to 64 km/h, lane keeping assist with lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, automatic high beams, sign recognition and adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist.

Despite the high seating position, the HS Core has plenty of space and storage space in the front seat, as well as more than par space in the back seat. Its boot capacity is 451 liters (VDA), which is roughly in line with the mid-to-low end of the midsize SUV segment. Under the floor in the Core is a spare wheel to save space.

The Core is backed by a seven-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, although limited-price service has not been recorded at the time of writing.