MG can trace their history back to 1924 a fact superbly celebrated on the touchscreen when you turn the key and are world famous for making stylish cars that are great to own whilst still offering superb value for money. What then can be said for the all new MG GS?
On test is the top of the range MG GS SUV in ‘Exclusive’ specification, the first, MG say, of a new generation of design and engineering excellence emerging from their Birmingham based technical centre. Fortunately, the MG GS, introduced in Summer 2016 is a striking looking SUV, especially in Sunset Orange, and looks different enough to make a strong first impression. The front grille is designed in such a way as to compliment the clever Xenon headlamps and to also highlight that iconic MG badge positioned so prominently whilst the hexagonal shape of the badge allows MG to use it a styling feature with creases running out from it and spreading across the bonnet towards the A pillars. The car cuts a rather modern look amongst traffic especially with its beautifully designed 18″ alloy wheels.
Climb inside the MG GS Exclusive and you’re struck by the space afforded the driver and passengers, indeed, rear passengers fair extremely well with plenty of leg room, a flat floor all the way across and the best bit? Reclining rear seats making your passengers feel very spoilt. Fully adjustable electric heated leather seats up front cosset the driver and passenger and allow you to get comfortable whilst the steering wheel is also multi adjustable. The GS is also a practical option for families as with the rear seats up there’s a boot capacity of 483 litres and an impressive 1336 litres with the seats folded flat.
MG have bequeathed the GS with an impressive specification including 18 ̋ alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights (DRL), Front fog lamps, Leather sport seats. Driver’s with lumbar support, Electrically adjusted heated front seats, Leather steering wheel with audio controls (plus paddle shift on DCT gearbox), iGO navigation, DAB radio, MP3 and iPod compatibility and AUX/USB input, BluetoothTM telephone integration and audio streaming, Auto air conditioning, Automatic headlamps, Cruise control, Rear parking sensors and camera, Electrically adjustable heated wing mirrors, Intelligent stop-start engine, Hill hold, Roof bars and Side step. The centrally positioned touchscreen is clear and simple to use with the Exclusive edition GS having the added bonus of including MG’s excellent iGO Navigation system, a SAT NAV that is incredibly easy to use and to be honest, better than the systems placed in far more expensive and well known manufacturers offerings. Impressive indeed.
The turbo charged, 4 cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet provides a healthy 164 bhp @ 5600 revs and torque of 184 ft/Ib between 1600 – 4300 revs. Figures more than good enough to keep the GS feeling lively and yet in normal conditions and with a gentle right foot, it’s perfectly possible to achieve the claimed combined mpg of 46.3 which is certainly impressive. Press on through the rev range, allow the turbo to keep spinning and rapid progress is the reward as this is an engine that likes to be revved, a habit helped by the excellent 6 speed manual gearbox with it’s sporting short throw. You’ve also a fine cruiser for A-roads and motorways as 70mph arrives at a shade over 2000 rpm allowing for a quiet and relaxed drive.
Overall the MG GS SUV offers an engaging drive with it’s responsive and economical engine, excellent handling and ride quality, an impressive array of technology and specifications, industry standard build quality and gorgeous metallic paint an inch thick.
The price? Just £15,095 – £21,095.
Where will you go?