Hi, I’m actually still on my first one, although I’ve had it for almost three years now with around 36K on the clock.
The problem with social media is that people rarely use it when they have something good to say, but when they have something bad happen to them, they’re happy for the world to know all about it. Silly really, but there you go.
So my honest opinion as the owner of a 22 plate HS auto is that by and large, it’s a superb car. It’s fabulously well equipped, reasonably economical (I’ve seen 51 on a long run up the A1) and comfort wise, it’s amazing. Not only is it huge inside, but as someone who suffers with serious lower back issues, I regularly do two and a half hour trips without a break and have never had any stiffness on arrival. It’s not the most dynamic of drives, but it’s a large car not a 3 series BMW and is certainly equal to most large SUV’s in its class. Indeed, it’s better than the VW Tiguan I had before it although that was an R Line so had stiffer suspension.
The gearbox is a DCT and takes a little getting used to at first but once you are (and it beds in) it’s smooth as silk. Put it in sport (or super sport if you have the magic red button) and it’ll take off like a cat with it’s bum on fire.
As for the electrics, other than a blown number plate bulb, I’ve never had a single issue. The driver aids, once set up to suit the driver (me) work perfectly and the adaptable cruise control is very effective.
The only issue I have with the car is the infotainment setup. Not only is the sat nav incredibly slow, but the DAB radio is awful with no ability to store stations at all. Easily saved by using Apple CarPlay, but still really irritating. That said, I believe the latest version is much, much better so I reserve judgment on that. I must also say that whilst I love mine, I do think that the latest models are much better looking both inside and out.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. In fact I frequently do and I’d certainly have another one were I not one of those people who never have the same car twice. I’m also seriously considering going electric which would rule the HS out.
My one piece of advice, research your dealer. Mine is OK, and they’re local so that works for me but I have heard some horror stories over the years.
Current car: Mini Countryman EV in very shiny black!
Previous car: MG HS Exclusive in nice shiny black.