A new large plug-in hybrid SUV from MG, the MG S9 PHEV, has surfaced following a leak from the European safety authority Euro NCAP. This latest model seeks to rival established competitors such as the Kia Sorento and adds to MG’s expanding electric vehicle lineup.
The MG S9 PHEV is a plug-in hybrid variant of the already available QS in Australia. According to the Euro NCAP safety report, the vehicle is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, featuring front-wheel drive and a third row of seating. This seating configuration sets it apart from the plug-in hybrid versions of rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq.
The powertrain details indicate that the QS may utilize technology from the smaller HS Super Hybrid model. This existing hybrid combines a 105 kW and 230 Nm turbocharged engine with a 154 kW and 340 Nm electric motor, achieving total system outputs of 220 kW and 350 Nm. The HS Super Hybrid also boasts a 24.7 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of around 120 km.
No significant cosmetic changes have been revealed in the leaked images. The development of a PHEV version of the QS was anticipated, particularly after MG filed to trademark the QS PHEV and QS Plug-in Hybrid nameplates late last year. Additionally, in August 2025, MG sought to protect the QS Super Hybrid nameplate with IP Australia.
Safety Ratings and Market Performance
Both Euro NCAP and the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) have recently released safety ratings for the MG S9 PHEV and its petrol counterpart, the QS. The MG S9 PHEV received a commendable five-star rating from Euro NCAP, achieving scores of 84 percent for adult occupant protection, 85 percent for child occupant protection, 74 percent for vulnerable road user protection, and 77 percent for safety assist features.
The ANCAP awarded the petrol variant of the QS a five-star rating as well, with slightly higher scores in each category: 88 percent, 86 percent, 76 percent, and 80 percent, respectively. Notably, ANCAP advised against fitting child seats in the third row due to the lack of top-tether anchor points.
MG launched the QS in Australia in mid-2025, marking its initial entry into the three-row SUV market locally. The QS, a rebadged RX9 from SAIC Motor brand Roewe, has already achieved 777 deliveries in Australia this year. This performance has allowed it to surpass the rival Nissan Pathfinder, which recorded 636 deliveries, and come close to the Skoda Kodiaq, with 1,035 units sold.
As MG continues to expand its presence in the SUV market, the MG S9 PHEV represents a significant step towards meeting the growing demand for hybrid vehicles. The introduction of this model is likely to intensify competition in the segment, particularly against established brands like Kia.
