Driven: 2016 MG Motors GS Review
The following is a test review of the MG Motors GS, here is what we think about this new SUV from the Midlands.
What is the 2016 MG Motors GS all About?
From the onset, the MG GS is a solid looking car, and it uses the same design language as the MG3 and MG6 models but with a modern twist.
The GS is being sold with a full 5-year factory warranty which makes it easy for you to buy the car with great confidence. It also has 3 very simple trim levels; Explore, Excite and Exclusive.
The Exclusive trim car that we are testing here includes electrically adjustable leather seats and an iGO navigation system. It also includes a dual clutch gearbox which brings the car’s total cost to £20,995.
It has a 1.5 litre petrol engine which gives 166 hp and 250 Nm of torque, which is the power that goes to the front wheels via a 6-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. This means that the car is capable of doing 0 to 60 mph in 9.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 118 mph. Impressively, this compact SUV will also manage 46 mpg and produce only 139 g/km of CO2.
How Does it Drive?
I tested the car on different routes around both the city and the countryside, and I can say that the engine has a strong power for a 1.5 litre and is well-matched with the DCT automatic gearbox. You can leave the gearbox to think all by itself and just focus on driving or if you want a faster response, then the paddles on the steering wheel allow a quick shift, getting you in the right gear just when you need it.
The power from this engine really comes into play mid-way up the rev range and the engine certainly becomes more vocal closer to the 7,000 rpm limiter. On the road this means overtaking is a breeze and on faster roads you will have fun as the engine does have a bit of poke for its size without costing you too much at the pumps.
The steering feel is well weighted which makes the car feel nimble, and also means parking is very easy and navigating through tight corners or turning lock to lock a dream. Spending time with the car it really didn’t feel like a hassle to drive because of this lightness in the steering.
The MG GS adds quality to your ride because it rides as an SUV should: smoothly. You can feel the large profile tyres working with the suspension, removing the bumps in the road. In the cabin you get a pleasant floaty feeling as you travel off to your destination.
What is it Like Inside?
The top of the range model I tested gives you a premium feeling because it has leather upholstery covering all the seats, but you could still see a few scratchy plastics inside to level things up. The car is very affordable though, and the interior layout is well designed and well thought out.
The infotainment system is also well designed with large touch screen with Bluetooth integration, DAB radio with twin tuners and sat nav. The twin tuners are a nice touch which makes sure the DAB signal doesn’t break while on the move, and it also has the Android phone integration, but you won’t find Apple CarPlay here.
There’s enough passenger room in the front of the car and the GS has spacious rear seat accommodation. There is also a spacious and very usable area in the boot of the car, that’s a touch better than its competitors.
The Experience
From my driving experience of the MG GS SUV, I can say that it gives a pretty cool experience worth the cash. For the next few years, it will still be a rare car on the road as they start to get sold in the UK and it will sell as it is a super practical car all around. The drive was twice as good as I was expecting, and this makes it stand out for me. This means that MG is making steps in the right direction with their new cars.
Verdict
The MG GS gives great features and practicalities at a super affordable price. It has an excellent performance and spacious interiors, perfect for a modern family and with decent economy. You should consider the MG GS, especially with the full 5-year manufacturer warranty.
Video Highlights
2016 MG Motors GS Exclusive (DCT)
- Price: £20,995
- Engine: 1.5 litre Turbocharged Diesel
- Power: 166 hp
- Torque: 250 Nm
- Transmission: 6-Speed DCT Automatic
- 0-62mph: 9.9 Seconds
- Top speed: 118 mph
- Weight: 1,467 kg
- Economy: 46 mpg
- CO2: 139 g/km
Author: Paul Hadley
