The 2025 MG QS has arrived in Australia as MG’s first true seven-seat SUV, stepping boldly into the competitive large SUV segment to challenge family favorites like the Toyota Kluger, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento. Priced from just $46,990 drive-away, this turbo-petrol powerhouse promises space, tech, and value that undercuts rivals by up to $21,000. But does it live up to its “true seven-seater” claim, and can it compete with established players? At My Pit Shop, we’ve analyzed the MG QS through test drives, expert reviews, and owner feedback to bring you a comprehensive review tailored for Australian families. Let’s explore its design, performance, interior, practicality, and more to see if it’s the ultimate budget SUV for 2025.
Overview: MG QS Enters the Seven-Seat SUV Arena
MG, a Chinese-owned brand under SAIC Motor, has made waves in Australia with affordable models like the MG ZS and MG 3. The 2025 MG QS, a rebranded Roewe RX9, marks its debut in the large SUV segment, offering a 2-3-2 seating layout and dimensions that outsize the Toyota Kluger (4983mm long, 1967mm wide, 1778mm tall, 2915mm wheelbase). With introductory pricing of $46,990 drive-away (Excite FWD) and $50,990 drive-away (Essence AWD), it undercuts the Kluger by ~$21,000, Santa Fe by ~$11,000, and Sorento by ~$7,000, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious families. But does its value proposition hold up? Let’s dive in.
Exterior Design: Bold and Modern, But Polarizing
The MG QS stands out with its imposing presence and bold styling. Key exterior features include:
- Massive Front Grille: The aggressive grille dominates the front, paired with sleek LED headlights and fog lights. Some find it striking, while others call it over-the-top.
- Athletic Lines: A sculpted bonnet and elegant bodywork details add a sporty edge, reducing the visual bulk of this near-5-meter SUV.
- Alloy Wheels: 20-inch alloys on the Excite and 21-inch on the Essence enhance its premium look.
- Powered Tailgate: Standard across both trims for easy boot access.
While the design is traditional for an SUV, the QS’s bold grille and athletic touches make it a head-turner. However, its polarizing front fascia may divide opinions among Australian buyers.
Interior: Spacious, Tech-Laden, and Surprisingly Premium
Inside, the MG QS offers a modern, family-friendly cabin with a focus on space and technology. Key highlights include:
- Twin 12.3-Inch Screens: A curved dual-screen setup (digital cluster and infotainment) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provides a sleek, user-friendly interface. Physical shortcut buttons simplify navigation, a big win for usability.
- Quality Materials: Soft-touch plastics and leather-like trim (hard plastic in some areas) create an upmarket feel. The Essence variant adds leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, and a Stone Beige interior option ($700 extra).
- Storage and Comfort: A slim center console with hidden compartments, wireless charging, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo (Essence) elevate the experience. Tri-zone climate control ensures all rows stay comfortable.
The cabin feels spacious and well-designed, though some plastics (e.g., faux leather panels) prioritize looks over tactile quality. Compared to the Kluger’s more utilitarian interior or the Santa Fe’s boxy aesthetic, the QS feels modern but not quite as premium as a Sorento GT-Line.
Space and Practicality: A True Seven-Seater?
MG markets the QS as a “true seven-seater,” not a 5+2 like some rivals. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Second Row: With sliding and reclining 60/40 seats, the second row offers ample legroom and headroom for adults (tested with a 175cm driver). Features include twin USB-C ports, air vents, a central armrest, and individual temperature controls, making it ideal for long road trips.
- Third Row: The third row is accessible via a one-touch entry on the passenger side. While spacious for children, adults up to 6 feet may find it cramped for extended trips due to limited legroom. Sliding the second row forward helps, but it’s not class-leading.
- Boot Space:
- Third row up: 203L (enough for small bags or groceries).
- Third row folded: 517L (suitable for school runs or weekend gear).
- All rows folded: 1052L (to the window line), offering ample cargo space for family adventures. Under-floor storage adds practicality.
Compared to rivals, the QS’s boot space is competitive (Kluger: 241L/552L; Santa Fe: 571L with third row folded), but the third row is better suited for kids than adults, similar to the Sorento.
Performance and Driving Experience: Adequate but Not Thrilling
The MG QS is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (153kW/360Nm), paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive (Excite) or all-wheel drive (Essence). Key performance points:
- Power and Acceleration: The QS’s 2-tonne-plus weight results in leisurely acceleration, estimated at ~10 seconds for 0-100km/h. The turbo spools slowly, requiring aggressive throttle input, which can feel harsh.
- Fuel Economy: MG claims 8.4L/100km (FWD) and 8.8L/100km (AWD) on the WLTP cycle, but real-world tests show ~11L/100km, requiring 95RON premium fuel. This yields a ~590km range from the 65L tank, less efficient than the Kluger Hybrid (5.6L/100km).
- Handling: The light steering feels disconnected, lacking the heft desired in a large SUV, though it aids parking and low-speed maneuvers. The Essence’s adaptive suspension and six drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Off-Road, Custom) improve ride quality over rough Australian roads, but the QS isn’t a driver’s car.
- Ride Comfort: The suspension handles broken roads well, and the nine-speed auto shifts smoothly in Normal mode. Sport mode sharpens throttle response but adds harshness, making Normal the best choice for daily driving.
Compared to the Kluger’s refined hybrid or the Sorento’s punchy diesel, the QS prioritizes comfort over engagement, appealing to families who value ease over excitement.
Safety: Comprehensive but Annoying
The MG QS hasn’t been tested by ANCAP, but it comes equipped with a robust safety suite, including:
- Seven airbags
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane-Keep Assist
- Lane-Centring Assist
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Reversing Camera with Rear Parking Sensors
- Essence adds front parking sensors and auto high-beam headlights
However, the active safety systems can be intrusive, with excessive bonging for perceived speeding or lane deviations (e.g., misreading a 50km/h zone as 40km/h). These can be disabled, but the process is cumbersome.
Ownership: Value and Drawbacks
- Warranty: MG offers a class-leading 10-year/250,000km warranty, providing peace of mind for families. However, recent reports note stricter warranty conditions compared to earlier MG models.
- Servicing Costs: Service intervals are reasonable (12 months/15,000km), but costs are high, with a 7-year total of $6,336 (FWD) or $6,962 (AWD), including a $2,920 service at 90,000km. This is pricier than the Kluger’s hybrid servicing.
- Towing: The QS can tow up to 2000kg (braked), competitive with the Sorento and Kluger.
MG QS vs. Rivals: How It Compares
| Feature | MG QS Excite/Essence | Toyota Kluger GX Hybrid AWD | Hyundai Santa Fe Active | Kia Sorento S AWD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Drive-Away) | $46,990/$50,990 | ~$65,500 | ~$58,000 | ~$54,340 |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo Petrol (153kW/360Nm) | 2.5L Hybrid (184kW) | 2.2L Diesel (148kW/440Nm) | 2.2L Diesel (148kW/440Nm) |
| Fuel Economy | 8.4-8.8L/100km (11L real-world) | 5.6L/100km | 6.1L/100km | 6.1L/100km |
| Boot Space (3rd Row Up) | 203L | 241L | 571L | 187L |
| Third Row Comfort | Kids, cramped for adults | Kids, cramped for adults | Kids, slightly better | Kids, cramped |
| Warranty | 10-yr/250,000km | 5-yr/Unlimited km | 5-yr/Unlimited km | 7-yr/Unlimited km |
- Toyota Kluger: Offers hybrid efficiency and proven reliability but at a higher price and with less standard tech.
- Hyundai Santa Fe: Boasts a premium interior and diesel efficiency but lacks the QS’s value edge.
- Kia Sorento: Matches the QS for space and features but is pricier and has a shorter warranty.
The MG QS excels in value and tech but lags in driving dynamics and third-row comfort compared to rivals.
Who Is the MG QS For?
The 2025 MG QS is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Families: Those needing a spacious, tech-rich SUV under $50,000.
- Urban Drivers: Its light steering and smooth ride suit city commutes and school runs.
- Tech Lovers: Twin screens, Bose audio, and wireless connectivity appeal to gadget enthusiasts.
It’s less suited for:
- Driving Enthusiasts: The light steering and sluggish turbo response won’t excite.
- Long-Distance Third-Row Users: Adults will find the third row cramped for road trips.
Tips for Buying the MG QS in Australia
- Choose the Right Variant: The Excite offers great value, but the Essence’s AWD, adaptive suspension, and premium features are worth the $4,000 premium for versatility.
- Test Drive: Experience the light steering and safety alerts to ensure they suit your driving style.
- Check Introductory Pricing: The $46,990/$50,990 drive-away prices are temporary; lock in before they revert to RRPs ($49,990/$55,990 plus on-roads).
- Budget for Servicing: Factor in high servicing costs (~$1,000/year for AWD) when planning ownership.
- Visit a Dealership: Tynan MG Sutherland and other dealers offer test drives and registrations of interest.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy the MG QS
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the MG QS
Yes, but the third row is best for kids. Adults may find it cramped for long trips.
The QS is cheaper ($46,990 vs. $65,500), larger, and tech-rich but less refined and less fuel-efficient than the Kluger Hybrid.
MG claims 8.4-8.8L/100km, but real-world tests show ~11L/100km with 95RON fuel.
It hasn’t been ANCAP-tested but includes seven airbags, AEB, lane-keep assist, and more. Be prepared for intrusive safety alerts
Conclusion: A Value-Packed Family SUV with Minor Flaws
The 2025 MG QS is a strong contender in Australia’s seven-seat SUV market, offering unmatched value, a spacious cabin, and a long list of features at a price that undercuts the Toyota Kluger, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento. Its bold design, modern tech, and 10-year warranty make it a compelling choice for families on a budget. However, the light steering, sluggish turbo, and high servicing costs may deter those seeking a dynamic drive or low running costs. For urban families prioritizing space and affordability, the MG QS is a worthy alternative to pricier rivals. Visit your local MG dealer to test drive this budget-friendly giant and see if it fits your family’s needs!
Author Bio
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Publish Date: July 7, 2025
Last Updated: July 7, 2025
Source: MG QS 2026 review
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