The MG S9 PHEV: lots of seats but low on emissions

MG has spent the past few years carving out a reputation for value-led electrified cars, but the brand is entering new territory with its first seven-seat SUV now available to order in the UK. And judging by what we’ve learned so far, it’s not so much entering a new arena as being spacious enough to actually be the arena. The all-new MG S9 PHEV is likely to attract a lot of interest from anyone considering leasing a full-size SUV.

Positioned above the HS in size and capability, it blends a family-friendly cabin with a low emission plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the kind of price tag that might give established rivals cause for discomfort.

The S9 PHEV is a significantly larger, more imposing SUV than the current HS, with a taller stance and a longer body that hints at its three-row layout. MG hasn’t gone wild with the styling, but the proportions are clean and confident, with a broad front end, contemporary lighting signatures, and an overall look that’s more focused on practicality than posing. It’s a straightforward, family-friendly design that prioritises space and usability without sacrificing feel and quality.

Inside, the S9 PHEV is designed around versatility.

Three rows of seats give it genuine seven-seat capability, and when the third row is folded flat, the boot opens up to more than 1,000 litres of space. That’s more than enough room for pushchairs, pets, sports kit, and the weekly shop - although not necessarily at the same time. Even with all seven seats in use, there’s still a useful 332 litres available for the essentials.

MG has equipped the cabin generously, with leather-style upholstery, a large panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, and heated, ventilated and massaging front seats. It’s a level of comfort and convenience that pushes the S9 PHEV into more premium territory while keeping the brand’s trademark value intact.

Safety has been given equal priority, with the S9 PHEV already having achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating. We also know that safety rating is supported by up to 16 advanced driver-assistance systems. MG hasn’t detailed the full list of features yet, but expect the usual mix of collision avoidance, lane-keeping, adaptive cruise, and blind-spot monitoring.

The latest technology continues under the MGS9’s bonnet too.

The S9 PHEV uses MG’s proven plug-in hybrid setup from the HS, pairing a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 24.7 kWh battery. MG quotes an electric-only range of up to 62 miles, which should be more than enough for most commutes, school runs, and daily errands without having to dip into the contents of the petrol tank. The hybrid system will help you keep running costs low while still offering the flexibility of a combustion engine for longer trips.

It should also prove attractive for company car users and employees who want a good value salary sacrifice car with company car tax starting at just £681 per annum for the 2026/7 tax year.

Much like the interior specifications, MG hasn’t released official performance figures yet either, but the focus is clearly on efficiency, refinement and ease of use rather than outright pace. For families who spend much of the week on short journeys, that electric-only range could turn out to be major factor in the decision process.

The MG S9 PHEV represents a significant step for the brand in the UK market.

Its core strength is the obvious space and practicality it has to offer. The three-row layout, generous boot space, and tall body make it a natural fit for growing families, while the flexible seating arrangement means it can switch between people-carrier and load-lugger with minimal fuss.

In terms of seven-seaters, the MG S9 PHEV is likely to be a beacon of value in a segment where list prices can quickly climb beyond the reach of many budgets. With its long electric range, versatile interior, and generous specification levels, MG has given it the potential to be a highly competitive lease option for large SUV drivers. Click here for our latest MG leasing deals.