Why the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid has won What Car? PHEV of the Year twice
The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid has plenty to celebrate. After being named Plug-in Hybrid of the Year at the What Car? Awards in both 2025 and 2026, the family SUV has demonstrated that it can stand out in a highly competitive part of the UK car market.
Combining electric driving with the flexibility of a petrol engine, along with generous interior space and plenty of technology, the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid is designed to fit easily into everyday family life. Here’s what makes it a serial winner.
A Two-Time What Car? Award Winner
Winning the What Car? Plug-in Hybrid of the Year title for two consecutive years is a notable achievement for the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid.
Its success reflects the qualities that have made the HS an increasingly interesting choice for drivers looking to move towards electrified motoring without switching to a fully electric vehicle.
But the awards are only part of the story. The HS Plug-in Hybrid is first and foremost a practical family SUV, combining a spacious cabin with an electrified powertrain that can adapt to different types of journeys.
Plug-in Hybrid Performance
Underneath the bonnet, the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a large battery.
For shorter journeys, the car can travel using electric power alone when sufficient charge is available. Once more power is needed or the battery charge falls, the petrol engine can contribute, meaning drivers aren't dependent on finding a charger during longer trips.
Together, the petrol and electric systems also provide strong performance, making the HS comfortable tackling everything from urban traffic to faster motorway journeys.
An Impressive Electric Range
One of the features that separates the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid from many traditional PHEVs is its useful electric-only capability.
The latest model offers an official electric range of up to 75 miles. For someone who can charge regularly at home or work, that range could allow many everyday commutes, school runs and shopping trips to be completed without using the petrol engine.
At the same time, having a petrol engine available provides additional flexibility when it's time for a longer journey.
Plenty of Space for Family Life
The HS is positioned as MG's larger family SUV, and that shows inside. There's generous room for passengers in both the front and rear, making it suitable for adults as well as families with growing children.
Its five-seat layout is accompanied by a practical luggage area for shopping, pushchairs, suitcases and the other items that come with everyday family life.
The elevated SUV driving position also provides a good view of the road, while the cabin has been designed with comfort in mind for longer trips.
Modern Technology Inside
The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid has a much more contemporary cabin than earlier generations of the HS.
A prominent feature is its dual-screen arrangement, bringing together the driver's digital instrument display and the central infotainment system. Smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also makes it simple to access compatible apps, navigation and music.
Depending on the chosen trim, additional comfort and convenience equipment is available, allowing drivers to choose a specification that suits their priorities.
There's plenty happening behind the scenes too. The HS comes with a range of MG Pilot driver assistance and safety technologies, designed to support the driver during everyday journeys.