Jaecoo 7 vs MG HS: which compact SUV offers more equipment for under €28,000

The C-segment SUV market has become the most competitive battleground in Spain. Asian brands—Chinese and Sino-British—have redefined the value-for-equipment equation, forcing the established European generalists to rethink their offer. Two models currently draw most of the attention: the Jaecoo 7, the European debut of Chery’s new premium sub-brand, and the MG HS, already well established and now strengthened by a PHEV variant with almost sporting figures.

The €28,000 hook serves as a psychological reference, but it’s worth clarifying from the outset: neither model, in the versions analysed here, starts below that figure at official manufacturer’s RRP. Even so, both remain among the compact SUVs with the best equipment-to-price ratio on the market.

Note: the prices quoted are manufacturer’s recommended retail prices (RRP), without dealer discounts, occasional campaigns or purchase incentives.

Two opposing philosophies in the same segment

The approach of each car could not be more different. The Jaecoo 7 relies on a conventional petrol engine, refined and efficient, focusing on aspirational design and technological equipment. The MG HS, in its PHEV version, goes to the opposite extreme: a plug-in hybrid of very high power and generous electric range, almost a grand tourer for the family disguised as an SUV.

Jaecoo 7: the premium debut of Chery — from €32,271

Jaecoo is designed as an aspirational brand within the Chery group. The Jaecoo 7 reflects this in its design language: a large vertical grille, flush door handles, taut lines and a cabin dominated by a 14.8-inch central screen. The entry-level 1.6 TGDI Select version features a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox.

Standard equipment highlights include synthetic leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, full ADAS (with level 2 adaptive driving) and a generous warranty, a key argument for reducing the hesitation of buyers still cautious about Chinese brands. Its indicative RRP starts at approximately €32,200.

MG HS PHEV: the plug-in hybrid firepower — from €37,340

The MG HS has for years been one of the best-selling Chinese SUVs in Spain, and the new generation with PHEV powertrain raises the bar to an unusual level for the segment. It is a plug-in hybrid system combining a 1.5 turbo petrol engine with a powerful electric motor and a 21.5 kWh battery, resulting in an electric range of up to 90 km WLTP and a combined output of 268 CV. It is, quite simply, the most powerful compact SUV in its price bracket.

Inside, the MG HS features an integrated dual-screen setup, power seats in the Comfort trim, premium sound, climate control and a complete MG Pilot suite of driver-assistance systems. The indicative starting RRP is around €37,300.

Equipment per euro: the real battle

This is where the 2024 compact SUV comparison becomes interesting. The Jaecoo 7 offers a more “premium” feel to the touch, with well-chosen materials in visible areas and a very well-executed screen integration. The MG HS, by contrast, plays the card of pure performance and the zero-emissions label, which opens access to low-emission zones, municipal tax exemptions and the real possibility of driving without spending on petrol in day-to-day use.

For an urban user with access to a charging point, the HS PHEV is hard to beat on cost per kilometre. For someone looking for a Chinese SUV with aspirational equipment and no plug-in hassle, the Jaecoo 7 is probably the most complete proposition.

Summary table and rating

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The MG HS PHEV wins on powertrain, environmental label and running costs. The Jaecoo 7 wins on entry price and perceived interior quality. The decision depends on the buyer’s profile, not on an absolute objective superiority.

Frequently asked questions

Is it really possible to buy a Jaecoo 7 or a MG HS for less than €28,000?
Not at official RRP. Both models start above that figure (Jaecoo 7 from €32,200 and MG HS PHEV from €37,300). They could only approach it through dealer discounts, campaigns and purchase incentives such as the MOVES Plan in the case of the HS PHEV.

Which Chinese SUV has the better environmental label?
The MG HS PHEV obtains a zero-emissions label thanks to its electric range of around 100 km, compared with the C label of the Jaecoo 7 with its petrol engine.

Which has better standard equipment?
The Jaecoo 7 stands out for its 14.8-inch screen, panoramic roof and premium materials; the MG HS PHEV offers a dual-screen setup, more power and the MG Pilot package. Both are very well equipped, but the Jaecoo places more emphasis on aspirational perception.

What warranty do these brands offer in Spain?
Jaecoo and MG are known for extended warranties (around 7 years on some components and campaigns), which reduces the perceived risk compared with emerging Chinese brands. It is advisable to confirm the current conditions with the dealer.