MG’s next-generation Toyota RAV4 rival has been spotted in Australia ahead of its official launch later this month.

The MG HS is arriving here first with petrol power, with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models following during the first half of 2025.

It’s set to be offered in three trim levels.

This HS spotted in Ramsgate appears to be a base model, judging by the cloth upholstery. However, it still has dual 12.3-inch screens inside.

Petrol-powered HS models will be offered with a 125kW/275Nm turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

A recent government filing indicated the HS will also be offered here with a 170kW turbo 2.0-litre four mated with a nine-speed automatic.

Based on European specs, the flagship model – potentially retaining the Essence badge – will also include a surround-view camera, panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, six-way power driver’s seat, eight-speaker sound system, and a wireless phone charger.

Compared to its predecessor, the new HS has a longer rear end and a bolder exterior design. Boot space has increased by 44L to 507L.

Like the outgoing HS, the new model offers a wide range of standard active safety technology, including autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Other driver assist features include adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limit assist and traffic jam assist.

It’s unclear how much of a price rise will come with the new-generation model. The outgoing HS range opens at $29,990 drive-away.

The HS is the least popular member of the current MG lineup in Australia, despite the mid-sized SUV segment being Australia’s largest by volume.

MG sold 1618 examples during the first half of 2024, down 65.3 per cent on the same period last year.

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