Mgplug-in to liven things up
We might not get the all-electric MG5 wagon, but the PHEV version of the HS SUV is heading our way, writes
With its all-electric ZS EV compact SUV about to go on sale in New Zealand, themgbrand is now weighing up potential for a threepronged electrified car lineup.
When deliveries begin next month THEMGZS EV will be New Zealand’s most competitively priced new EV with a $55,990 list price.
Launched in the United Kingdom recently are a plug-in hybrid version of the larger size HS SUV and a fullelectric version of the MG5 mid-size estate car model.
The MG5 EV has a larger battery (52.2kwh compared to 44.5kwh) and additional range potential than the ZS EV.
It’s the plug-in hybrid HS that could have significant potential for themgbrand in New Zealand and would be a rival for the segmentdominating Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Ford’s upcoming Escape plug-in that is due early next year.
THEMGHS PHEV brings together the brand’s 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a 90kw electric motor and a 10-speed automatic transmission – achieved by having a six-speed automatic transferring power from the petrol engine and a four-speed electric drive control unit.
Performance figures announced for the UK market signal combined output from the PHEV powertrain of 190kw and
Mgis claiming a zero emissions EV driving range of 51km and 0-100kmh acceleration in just over 7.0 seconds (0-60mph in 6.9secs).
‘‘THEMGHS PHEV is coming to New Zealand, arriving in the first quarter next year. We are very excited about this model, because it’s going to be another class-leading vehicle for range and performance,’’ said Anthony Maclean, Mgmotor New Zealand business manager.
‘‘We are not yet 100 per cent certain about the performance figures and the range.
‘‘I expect our New Zealand spec cars will be the ballpark with the UK and we will be able to confirm with final specs and pricing.’’
Maclean said the New Zealand market HS PHEV will be launched in MG’S high-grade Essence equipment level with leather trim, sunroof and the fullmgpilot suite of advanced driver assist features.
The MG5 EV isn’t scheduled for a role in the New Zealand market.
‘‘New Zealand is predominantly an SUV market and we have no plans for this vehicle,’’ Maclean said.
‘‘But we will listen to customer feedback and if there is strong demand, we will put it in consideration.’’
Electrified vehicles are spearheading the growth of themg brand. Sales forecasts for the UK market point to 50 per cent ofmg sales being either battery EV or plugin hybrid models as soon as next year.
The conventional HS model powered by the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine – paired with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission – is available in New Zealand with four grades of specification priced from $32,990.