MG QS brings a new contender to South Africa's seven-seater market
MG is preparing to take on established family SUV brands with a seven-seater that offers petrol and plug-in hybrid power.
MG
MG is preparing to take on established family SUV brands with a seven-seater that offers petrol and plug-in hybrid power.
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MG is preparing to take on established family SUV brands with a seven-seater that offers petrol and plug-in hybrid power. South African families looking for a large SUV will have another option to consider when MG introduces the QS in January 2027. The new model is a significant addition to MG's local range. At just under five metres long, it is bigger than the SUVs the brand currently sells in South Africa and gives it an entry into the seven-seater market.
This is a segment where buyers have traditionally looked at models such as the Toyota Kluger, Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento. Chinese manufacturers are also competing for attention, with Chery's Tiggo 8 among the alternatives. The QS has three rows of seats, with a sliding second row that allows passengers to adjust the available space.
The third row is more suitable for children, particularly on longer trips. There is also a practical consideration for families who regularly travel with seven people. With every seat occupied, the boot offers just 203 litres of luggage space. Folding the third row increases this to 517 litres.
"Buyers will want to know what servicing costs, parts availability, warranty cover and resale values look like over several years of ownership."
A choice between petrol and plug-in hybrid
MG plans to bring two powertrain options to South Africa. The petrol version uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 153kW and 355Nm. It is paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, with front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations planned. The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a 24.7kWh battery. Combined output is 220kW and 350Nm.
MG claims an electric-only range of up to 100km and a combined driving range of 1,400km. The plug-in hybrid could attract buyers who have access to home or workplace charging but still need a petrol engine for longer journeys.
The driving experience
CarsGuide's review of the Australian specification QS Essence found that the vehicle offers a comfortable ride and a spacious cabin. However, the review also raised questions about the petrol engine's performance. The 2.0-litre engine can feel strained when the SUV is pushed harder, while the steering was described as particularly light.
The cabin comes with two 12.3-inch displays, wireless smartphone connectivity, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof and a Bose sound system. These features form part of the Australian specification. MG has yet to confirm whether the South African versions will receive the same equipment.
The price will tell an important part of the story
MG will be entering a market where buyers have several established seven seater options. It will also be competing against Chinese brands that have been gaining ground through competitive pricing and generous equipment levels. But selling a large SUV involves more than getting customers interested in the showroom. Buyers will want to know what servicing costs, parts availability, warranty cover and resale values look like over several years of ownership.
These are areas where established brands already have an advantage. MG has not announced local pricing or the final model line-up. Those details will give a better indication of where the QS sits against its competitors when it reaches South African dealerships in January 2027.
