Is MG onto another winner with the sizable S9, the newest member of its expanding vehicle range?

Whether you admire or dislike them, large SUVs designed to seat seven passengers suit big families perfectly. Large SUVs designed to seat seven passengers suit big families perfectly.

The fresh MG S9 enters an expanding group of three-row plug-in hybrids that features the Jaecoo 8 SHS-P, Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid, Mazda CX-80 PHEV, Omoda 9 SHS-P and Chery Tiggo 7 CSH.

Positioned above the smaller yet popular MG HS, the S9 represents a sizable machine. Measuring just under five metres in length, it spans nearly two metres across and stands about the average UK male height of 1.78m. In comparison, it edges out the impressive Santa Fe in overall dimensions.

Crucially, it functions as a genuine seven-seater, with prices beginning at 34,210 pounds, offering substantial vehicle for the cost.

The adjustable middle row provides adequate legroom for those in the furthest seats. This works for adults too, though smaller individuals fit more comfortably in the rear.

Additionally, it offers 332 litres of cargo space with all seats in use, expanding to 557 litres once the third row is stowed, and reaching a vast 2,093 litres with the five rear seats lowered.

The S9 employs the established powertrain from the MG HS PHEV, featuring a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit combined with a 23.2kWh usable battery for a combined 295bhp output and up to 62 miles of electric range.

Beyond that, overall range surpasses 600 miles due to strong efficiency and a 65-litre fuel tank.

A full charge from empty on a 7kW home unit takes around four hours.

With a single-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels, the S9 reaches 0-62mph in 9.6 seconds, respectable given its dimensions.

In daily use the engine often serves as a generator supplying the battery, though it can deliver direct power to the wheels under heavy demand such as overtaking.

Low CO2 output of 18g/km benefits company car users, while the 2,000kg braked towing capacity handles boats or caravans with ease.

Initial impressions impress. The MG S9 looks substantial and well constructed. Chrome accents on the lower body and door styling add a touch of flair, extending across the grille into the headlamps.

Inside, the cabin feels roomy and refined, with brushed aluminium finishes on many controls. Though some synthetic leather, faux wood and hard plastics appear in top trims, the price makes such details forgivable.

Standard Comfort equipment includes a panoramic roof, powered tailgate, dual 12.3-inch screens and wireless Apple CarPlay plus Android Auto.

Premium specification adds synthetic leather, heated ventilated massaging front seats, a 12-speaker Bose audio system and wireless charging.

It earned five Euro NCAP stars and includes comprehensive safety and assistance systems.

Here lies the main drawback. Like many Chinese models, the frequent alerts for driver attention, lane keeping and speed limits prove annoying.

Owners should create a custom profile to disable unwanted warnings, avoiding repeated touchscreen adjustments each trip.

The infotainment responds slowly at times and requires firm inputs.

On the move the vehicle bulk becomes familiar, yet caution remains essential on tight roads or during parking. Visibility stays strong, aided by the 360-degree camera displayed on the central screen.

The elevated driving position offers good sightlines, and the softly tuned suspension favours comfort ahead of sharp handling.

Steering feels light rather than highly accurate. Grip holds well normally, though front wheels may slip on slippery or loose surfaces during brisk acceleration.

Overall it remains stable and controlled, limiting body roll even in quicker bends.

Refinement prevails since it often runs in electric mode or uses the engine quietly as a generator. When the petrol unit engages it stays reasonably subdued.

Alongside Normal, Eco, Sport and Custom modes, drivers can select EV or Hybrid settings.

In EV mode it relies on battery power until nearly empty, then activates the engine to maintain charge.

Hybrid mode blends both power sources, favouring electric at lower speeds.

Energy settings allow preserving battery for later use or prompting the engine to recharge while driving.

Steering wheel paddles adjust regenerative braking strength on the go.

Real-world economy for any PHEV hinges on charging habits and journey types.

Short trips with regular overnight charging keep petrol stops minimal by maximising electric running.

Even motorway hybrid driving with a low battery can return around 40mpg.

Ultimately the MG S9 Plug-in Hybrid excels as a spacious, well-equipped cruiser.

Verdict: The MG S9 Plug-in Hybrid seven-seater delivers outstanding value, strong economy and simple driving manners. With a seven-year warranty included, it becomes an obvious choice for large families.

MG Motor UK