Finding the ideal family SUV can often feel like an intricate balancing act. Many drivers seek the expansive space and versatility of a seven-seater, yet they are acutely aware of the premium price tags these vehicles typically command. The quest for genuine value—a robust package that doesn’t compromise on essential features while remaining accessible—can be particularly challenging. However, as the video above eloquently demonstrates, the new MG S9 emerges as a compelling contender, challenging preconceived notions about what a budget-friendly SUV can truly offer.
The MG S9 is positioned as arguably the best value-for-money car currently available in the UK, especially for those in the market for a large family vehicle. This audacious claim is primarily substantiated by its highly competitive pricing. An entry-level MG S9, for instance, can be acquired for just over £31,000, while the comprehensively equipped range-topping version is available through Carwow for approximately £33,500. This pricing structure places it significantly below many of its direct competitors, offering a substantial amount of vehicle for the investment.
The MG S9: A Giant in its Class
One of the most striking attributes of the MG S9 is its sheer physical presence. Measuring an impressive five meters in length, this SUV commands attention and, more importantly, provides an abundance of interior volume. This considerable footprint translates directly into generous passenger space, particularly for its seven-seat configuration. Unlike many seven-seaters where the rearmost seats are best reserved for children or short journeys, the S9 comfortably accommodates adults, even those over six feet tall, in its third row. This capability is a significant differentiator, making it a truly practical option for larger families or those who frequently transport multiple passengers.
Further enhancing passenger comfort, the rear seats in the MG S9 offer a reclining function, which is a premium feature not commonly found in this price bracket. This allows passengers to adjust their seating position for optimal relaxation during longer journeys. Additionally, the middle row provides ample knee room, foot space, and headroom, with seats positioned to offer excellent under-thigh support. The ability to slide these seats forwards and backwards further customizes the interior layout, adapting to varying passenger and cargo needs. However, a notable omission in the rearmost row is the absence of ISOFIX anchor points, with only two positions available on the outer middle row, which might limit the placement of multiple child seats.
Design Aesthetics and Practical Considerations
From an aesthetic perspective, the MG S9 projects an image that belies its economical price tag. Its design elements, such as the distinctive chrome “hockey stick” detail reminiscent of luxury sedans and front fascia that shares visual cues with premium European SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq, contribute to a sophisticated appearance. Consequently, the S9 avoids looking like a budget vehicle, instead conveying a sense of quality and modernity. This design approach is crucial for an automaker aiming to compete in a segment often dominated by established brands, offering a perception of luxury without the associated cost.
Despite its largely appealing exterior, certain design choices in the MG S9 have drawn scrutiny. The presence of egregious fake exhaust tips at the rear, for instance, detracts from an otherwise commendable design, serving as a stark reminder of its budget origins. Furthermore, while the large doors facilitate easy entry and exit in open spaces, their substantial size can present considerable challenges in tight parking environments, where squeezing through narrow gaps becomes a genuine struggle. These minor design and ergonomic oversights, while not deal-breakers, highlight areas where the blend of value and design execution could be further refined.
Navigating the User Experience: Praises and Perplexities
The MG S9 offers a mixed bag when it comes to the daily user experience, presenting a compelling blend of thoughtful features and frustrating quirks. On the positive side, all models benefit from a massive, panoramic sunroof that opens, contributing to a bright and airy cabin ambiance, a feature often reserved for higher trims in other vehicles. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 360-degree camera system with a top-down view and a “see-through car” function significantly aids maneuverability, particularly given the S9’s substantial dimensions, making urban driving and parking considerably less daunting. Drivers will also appreciate the two customizable buttons on the steering wheel, which can be configured for various functions, such as adjusting regenerative braking levels or activating the 360-degree camera, enhancing convenience and personalization.
Conversely, several design and functionality choices within the cabin can lead to minor exasperations. The placement of the start/stop button, concealed behind the steering wheel, often results in drivers forgetting to turn off the car, especially when the quiet electric mode makes its operation barely perceptible. This issue is compounded by the car’s tendency to automatically lock itself, leading to frantic searches for keys. The “keyless go” system, while intended for convenience, paradoxically introduces a layer of frustration due to these design considerations. Additionally, the pop-out door handles, while visually appealing and a nod to luxury vehicles, can feel somewhat flimsy and are cumbersome in real-world scenarios, particularly when trying to open them with gloved hands or in a hurry. These small but persistent annoyances underscore the delicate balance between innovative features and intuitive usability.
Technology and Infotainment: A Functional Approach
The infotainment system and digital displays in the MG S9 are generally functional, though they do not necessarily set new benchmarks for responsiveness or visual flair. The central touchscreen, while adequate, features graphics that can appear somewhat dark, and its responsiveness is not always instantaneous. Nevertheless, the menu structure is relatively straightforward, allowing for easy access to various functions through swipes and taps. For instance, common settings like the overspeed warning and the overly strict driver distraction monitoring system—a feature many drivers will undoubtedly wish to disable—can be accessed by navigating through the “car” menu, although attempting this while driving can be a challenge.
The digital driver’s display, situated behind the steering wheel, offers clear information but maintains a somewhat bland aesthetic. Furthermore, the absence of a dedicated phone button on the steering wheel means that managing calls or rectifying misinterpretations from voice commands requires interacting directly with the touchscreen, potentially distracting the driver. In terms of charging, the wireless charging pad, while present, suffers from slow charging speeds and an asymmetrical design that struggles to securely hold all phone sizes, causing devices to slide during acceleration. Regarding power, the plug-in hybrid system exclusively features old-school AC charging, which is slower compared to the fast DC charging capabilities found in some competitors. This reliance on slower charging methods means that recharging the 62-mile electric-only range will require more patience, particularly when relying on public charging infrastructure.
Driving Dynamics and Performance of the MG S9
The driving experience of the MG S9 can be characterized by its impressive composure and quietness, especially during long-distance journeys and at higher speeds. The cabin insulation is remarkably effective, creating a serene environment that rivals more premium luxury cars from brands such as BMW or Audi. This tranquility significantly contributes to a relaxing travel experience, making the S9 an excellent choice for extended trips. Furthermore, despite its considerable size, the S9 is surprisingly easy to maneuver in urban settings, thanks to excellent all-around visibility and a commendable turning circle. The driver benefits from a clear view forward, enabling accurate judgment of the car’s corners, which simplifies navigating narrow streets and tight parking spaces, often with the aid of the 360-degree camera system.
However, when pushed on twisty country roads, the S9 reveals aspects of its budget-conscious engineering. While it offers sufficient grip through bends, preventing any sensation of instability, the suspension can feel somewhat less refined. Sudden impacts from bumps and potholes result in noticeable jolts and clunks, indicating a slight compromise in damping quality compared to more expensive rivals. Another specific observation pertains to the car’s electric powertrain: attempting to accelerate aggressively with too much steering lock on can cause the front wheels to spin up easily. This phenomenon, attributable to the instant torque delivery of the electric motor and the limitations of the front-wheel-drive configuration, is common in many electric-powered vehicles and is quickly managed by the car’s traction control systems. Despite these minor imperfections, the S9 generally handles competently for a large seven-seater SUV, fulfilling its primary role as a comfortable and secure family transporter.
Power and Efficiency: The Plug-in Hybrid Advantage
Under the bonnet, the MG S9 is equipped with a sophisticated 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that delivers a combined output of 300 horsepower. This substantial power figure ensures the heavy 2.2-ton SUV is surprisingly nippy for its size. Independent testing indicates a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 8.8 seconds, which is notably quicker than the 9.6 seconds claimed in the manufacturer’s brochure. This performance makes the S9 more than capable of confidently merging onto highways and executing overtakes, providing a sense of security for family journeys. Braking performance is equally vital for a family vehicle, and the S9 performs commendably in emergency stop scenarios. From 60 mph, it achieved a stopping distance of 34 meters, which is a respectable figure for a vehicle of this size and weight, underscoring its safety credentials.
Beyond raw performance, the plug-in hybrid system offers significant advantages in terms of fuel efficiency and environmental impact. With an electric-only range of 62 miles, many daily commutes and errands can be completed without consuming any petrol, drastically reducing running costs for drivers who regularly charge their vehicle. This impressive electric range also translates into very low emissions, placing the MG S9 into the highly favorable 10% Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax category for company car users. For a high-rate taxpayer, this classification means an annual BIK cost of approximately £1,500, making it an exceptionally attractive proposition for corporate fleets and employees alike. While the claimed 353 miles per gallon is a theoretical figure achieved under specific test conditions, real-world economy, when leveraging the electric range effectively, can still be remarkably high.
Ownership Value: Buying Versus Leasing
When considering the MG S9, prospective owners often weigh the options of purchasing outright versus leasing. Analysis of market data reveals a fascinating dynamic for this particular model. For many vehicles, leasing can present a cost-effective route to new car ownership, offering predictable monthly payments and avoiding the depreciation risks associated with purchasing. However, for the MG S9, the numbers indicate a unique situation where, in some cases, it may actually be more economical to buy the car outright and sell it on after a few years, rather than opting for a long-term lease. This counter-intuitive outcome is influenced by a combination of strong residual values and potentially less favorable lease terms compared to the car’s inherent purchase value. Drivers are therefore encouraged to meticulously compare both purchasing and leasing figures through platforms like Carwow to ascertain the most financially advantageous path for their individual circumstances.
Furthermore, the MG S9 presents a compelling alternative to the used premium SUV market. For instance, a five-year-old Volvo XC90, a highly regarded luxury seven-seater, often commands a price tag that is still higher than a brand-new MG S9. While a used premium car might initially seem appealing, it carries the inherent risk of an unknown past. Issues such as multiple damage reports, undisclosed repairs, or inconsistent maintenance can significantly impact a used vehicle’s reliability and long-term cost of ownership. Consequently, when considering a used car, a thorough history check from services like CarVertical is absolutely essential to uncover any “shady past” and mitigate potential risks. For those seeking absolute peace of mind, the proposition of purchasing a new MG S9, with its comprehensive warranty and transparent history, stands as an exceptionally strong value proposition against both new and used market competitors, particularly when factoring in its outstanding value for money.
Your MG S9 7-Seat SUV Questions Answered
What kind of vehicle is the MG S9?
The MG S9 is a large 7-seat SUV, specifically designed to offer expansive space and versatility for families.
Is the MG S9 considered an affordable family SUV?
Yes, the MG S9 is positioned as a great value-for-money car in the UK, with entry-level models available for just over £31,000.
How spacious is the interior of the MG S9?
The MG S9 is quite large, measuring five meters in length, and can comfortably accommodate adults, even those over six feet tall, in its third-row seats.
What kind of engine does the MG S9 use?
The MG S9 is equipped with a 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, which provides a combined output of 300 horsepower and an electric-only range of 62 miles.
Is the MG S9 comfortable for long drives?
Yes, the MG S9 offers impressive composure and a quiet cabin, making it a serene and relaxing choice for long-distance journeys.
