Hybrid Showdown: MG HS Essence Super vs Toyota RAV4 Cruiser – Spec Battle

The landscape of the hybrid vehicle market has been forever changed by new technology and innovative arrivals that are reshaping the world of green motoring. Since the introduction of petrol-electric hybrids like the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius, the market has evolved significantly. Now, plug-in hybrids, also known as ‘Super Hybrids,’ are making their mark with extended battery ranges and efficient internal combustion engines.

These plug-in hybrid vehicles can be charged from a household power outlet, offering a battery range of over 100km and a total range of at least 800km. The MG HS Super Hybrid, for example, boasts an electric vehicle range of 120km from a fully charged battery, providing a compelling option for those looking to embrace both electric and internal combustion engine technologies.

In the competitive mid-size SUV market, the Toyota RAV4 has long been the benchmark, but the MG HS is now challenging its position with its Super Hybrid variant. With a claimed electric vehicle range of 120km and a drive-away price of $52,990, the MG HS Super Hybrid is making a strong case for itself in the green motoring space.

When it comes to cost, MG is changing the game by offering strong petrol-electric contenders at competitive prices. The HS Essence with Super Hybrid drive starts at $33,990 drive-away, while the flagship MG HS Essence Super Hybrid is priced at $55,990 drive-away. This puts it in direct competition with the Toyota RAV4 Cruiser, despite the Toyota not being a plug-in hybrid.

Looking at safety features, both the MG HS and Toyota RAV4 have received a five-star rating from ANCAP and come equipped with a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. The MG HS offers additional safety features like lane-change assistance, speed-limit assistance, and a driver attention monitor.

Inside, both the MG HS and Toyota RAV4 offer comfortable cabins with plenty of storage space and modern amenities. While the Toyota RAV4 may show its age with an undersized infotainment screen, the MG HS boasts a more modern twin-screen digital display integrated into the dashboard.

Under the bonnet, both vehicles feature a combination of conventional combustion engines and electric motors. The RAV4 combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an 88kW electric motor, while the MG HS combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 155kW electric motor. The MG HS Super Hybrid offers a claimed total range of more than 1000km and consumes just 0.7L/100km.

In terms of cost of ownership, the MG HS Super Hybrid offers a seven-year warranty with the option to extend it to 10 years and 250,000km by servicing within the MG dealer network. The RAV4 comes with a five-year warranty and capped-price servicing costs of approximately $1300 throughout the warranty period.

Overall, the MG HS Super Hybrid emerges as a frontrunner in the hybrid vehicle market with its extended EV range, competitive pricing, and innovative features. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the MG HS represents a compelling option for those looking to embrace the future of green motoring.