# MG HS — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the MG HS on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mg-hs

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Exclusive
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £16,000

## Why this model

⚠️ Limited UK data — MG only re-entered the UK market with its current ownership in 2011, and the HS model arrived in 2019, so we have fewer MOT tests and less long-term resale history than established brands. However, the MG HS is a fantastic value-for-money family SUV. It offers a lot of space, a comfortable ride, and a generous equipment list for its price point. It's also backed by a strong 7-year/80,000-mile manufacturer warranty, which provides excellent peace of mind for a used car buyer. While it might not have the brand prestige of some rivals, it's a solid, practical choice that won't break the bank.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a 2021 MG HS 1.5T Exclusive with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sits around £16,000. Prices can vary by ±15-20% depending on condition, exact mileage, and optional extras. You might find an Excite for a bit less, or a top-spec Trophy for a bit more. Always compare prices across multiple platforms like AutoTrader and Motors.co.uk.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Exclusive' trim hits the sweet spot for the MG HS. It comes packed with features like a panoramic sunroof, leather-style upholstery, heated front seats, a powered tailgate, and a more advanced infotainment system, without pushing the price too high. You get a real premium feel for a very reasonable cost, making it excellent value compared to the 'Excite' which misses some of these luxuries, or the 'Trophy' which adds a bit more but often isn't worth the extra jump in price on the used market.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system can be a bit slow or glitchy
- Some reports of minor interior rattles or build quality niggles
- Clutch wear on manual models (less common on automatics)

## Running costs

For the 1.5T petrol engine, you can expect around 37-40 mpg. With petrol prices currently around £1.45 per litre, that works out to roughly 17-18 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2021 model will be around £180-£200 per year, depending on its specific CO2 emissions. Insurance costs will vary greatly based on your age, location, and driving history, but it generally falls into a mid-range bracket for family SUVs.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 160 bhp
- **Mpg**: 37-40 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Good (backed by 7-year warranty)
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2019)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Excite | £22,000 | £14,800 | 10.1-inch touchscreen; Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Rear parking sensors |
| Exclusive | £24,500 | £16,000 | Panoramic sunroof; Leather-style upholstery; Heated front seats |
| Trophy | £26,000 | £17,500 | Sportier exterior styling; Red brake calipers; Unique alloy wheel design |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £16,000 | 0% |
| 2027 | £13,500 | 15.6% |
| 2028 | £11,500 | 14.8% |
| 2029 | £9,800 | 14.7% |
| 2030 | £8,300 | 15.3% |

Buying a 2021 MG HS in 2026 means you're getting a 5-year-old car that has already taken its biggest depreciation hit. The initial steep drop from new is behind it, and the remaining 2 years of the 7-year warranty offer great protection. While it will continue to depreciate, the rate should be more gradual, making it a good value purchase for several years.

Total value lost since new: 48.1%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Kia Sportage (2021)
- Hyundai Tucson (2021)
- Skoda Karoq (2021)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.