MG HS 2020: ANCAP raises safety concerns with new Mazda CX-5-rivalling Chinese SUV

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has given the MG HS mid-size SUV a five-star safety rating despite raising concerns regarding its performance in crash testing.

“Tested to our most stringent criteria, the MG HS scored well, yet concerns were noted for chest protection of the driver in the oblique pole test and head protection for older children in the side impact test,” said ANCAP chief executive James Goodwin.

That said, the HS still scored 92 per cent in Adult Occupant Protection testing and 83 per cent in Child Occupant Protection testing in spite of the former and latter crash results respectively.

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ANCAP safety ratings explained

Vulnerable Road User Protecting testing was actually the HS’ biggest challenge, with a score of 64 per cent registered due to a mixed performance in the pedestrian impact test.

Safety Assist testing was relatively strong for the HS thanks to its standard fitment of autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist, among other advanced driver-assist systems.

MG Australia boss Peter Ciao said: “We’ve listened to important feedback from our customers, and this five-star rating is a reflection of our commitment to safety as we endeavour to bring the latest technology to the market.

“We’re confident our MG HS will have broad appeal to customers who are seeking premium features and design at an attainable price point, backed with a compelling seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and seven-year roadside assistance package.”

For reference, the Mazda CX-5-rivalling HS is available in two variants, entry-level Vibe and flagship Excite, which are priced from $29,990 and $32,990 plus on-road costs respectively.