In a significant strategic realignment, MG Motor New Zealand has announced it is shifting its main focus to a new ‘Hybrid First’ strategy, aiming to bolster its lineup with fuel-efficient and powerful advanced powertrains. This move signals a new era for the rapidly growing brand, which previously carved out a reputation as a leader in the pure electric vehicle (EV) space.
The move is designed to cater to a broader range of Kiwi motorists. “We’ve listened to motorists who have been requesting models which offer outstanding driving dynamics combined with the ability to travel significant distances plus deliver outstanding fuel efficiency,” said Peter Ciao, CEO of MG Motor Australia and New Zealand. Ciao explained that while the brand broke ground with popular EVs like the ZS EV and the award-winning MG4, this new chapter will see an influx of highly desirable and affordable models featuring advanced hybrid technology.
The goal is to position MG as the “‘go to brand’ when it comes to exceeding these specific needs and requirements” for drivers not yet ready to commit to a fully electric vehicle but still seeking low emissions and excellent economy.
Headlining the Charge: The All-New MG HS Super Hybrid
Leading the new hybrid wave is the all-new MG HS Super Hybrid. This model is engineered to offer the best of both worlds: silent, smooth electric driving for city commutes and the long-range flexibility of a petrol engine for open-road adventures.
To prove its mettle, a team of MG engineers recently drove a test vehicle from Sydney to Melbourne on a single tank of fuel and one battery charge, a journey of 880km. Remarkably, the vehicle still had over 100km of available range remaining upon arrival.
The HS Super Hybrid combines a 1.5L turbo petrol engine with a substantial 24.7kWh battery. The system prioritizes battery power for lower-speed driving, with the combustion engine kicking in for extra power at highway speeds. Arriving in September, the HS Super Hybrid will be available in two trims:
- Excite: from $52,990 (+ORC)
- Essence: from $56,990 (+ORC)
EVs Aren’t Forgotten: Introducing the MGS5 EV
While the spotlight is on hybrids, MG is also expanding its pure electric offering with the new MGS5 EV. Built on the same acclaimed Modular Scalable Platform as the 5-star ANCAP-rated MG4, it promises the same brilliant rear-wheel-drive dynamics that have made the hatchback a fan favourite.
Thanks to the clever packaging of its ultra-thin 110mm battery, the MGS5 EV boasts impressive interior space. It will be available with two battery options, 49kWh and 62kWh, with a claimed NEDC driving range of up to 515km. All models will produce 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque. Fast charging capabilities will allow a 30% to 80% top-up in just 19 minutes.
More Choice and Better Value
The ‘Hybrid First’ strategy is a comprehensive one, with the HS Super Hybrid joining a planned lineup that includes the HS Hybrid+, MG3 Hybrid, and ZS Hybrid, creating an unprecedented array of low-emission options from the brand.
To sweeten the deal for Kiwi buyers, MG is also realigning its pricing across the portfolio. The move brings significant reductions to HEV, EV, and petrol models, making ownership even more accessible. Key price drops include:
- MG ZS HEV (Excite and Essence): Price reduced by $2,000.
- MG4 Range: Price reduced by $2,000 to $5,000.
- MG ZS Range: Price reduced by $2,000 to $3,000.
This aggressive strategy, combining a wider range of powertrains with sharp pricing and the brand’s well-regarded warranty, signals MG’s clear intention to continue its rapid growth and become a dominant player in the New Zealand automotive market.
