2025 MG QS Essence Review: A Serious Value Rival to Toyota Kluger
Cars are expensive these days, so when a brand like MG rolls out a seven-seat competitor to the Toyota Kluger (also called the Toyota Highlander overseas) for around half the price, people get interested.
This is the MG QS, and the variant reviewed here is the top-spec Essence, priced at around $50,000 drive-away. For context, a top-spec Kluger can cost more than $80,000. So the MG QS instantly positions itself as a high-value seven-seat family SUV.
Powertrain and Performance
Engine:
2.0L turbo petrol
150 kW & 350 Nm
Transmission:
9-speed automatic
All-wheel drive
Performance tests:
0–100 km/h: 9.11 sec
80–120 km/h: 6.73 sec
Fuel use:
Claimed: < 9 L/100 km
Real world: > 10 L/100 km
Requires 95-octane premium
Braking:
100–0 km/h: 39.66 meters (good for this size)
Compromise:
Engine and gearbox feel slow to respond
Exterior Design
The MG QS is longer, wider, and has a bigger wheelbase than the Kluger, yet it does not feel oversized.
Front:
Large front grille
LED headlights and LED DRLs
Premium design direction
Side:
21-inch alloy wheels
Michelin tyres
Panoramic glass roof
Camera integrated into wing mirrors
Rear:
Full LED tail light bar
All-wheel drive badging
10-year warranty (only if serviced at MG)
Overall, the MG QS has a modern and premium presence.
Interior Quality and Features
Inside, the QS surprises with premium presentation at a lower price.
Highlights:
Soft-touch materials
Two 12.3-inch digital screens (cluster + infotainment)
Faux wood trim styling
Good build quality (minor seat squeak and average door shut feel)
Infotainment and Connectivity
Wireless Apple CarPlay + Android Auto
Built-in Satnav
12-speaker premium sound system
However:
→ Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto is buggy and disconnects often.
Charging & ports:
Wireless charging pad
12V outlet
Two USB-C ports
Parking tech:
360-degree camera
Front + rear parking sensors
Comfort and Seating
Front seats:
Heated and ventilated
Electric adjustment + lumbar support
Heated steering wheel
Dual-zone climate control
Second row:
Exceptional knee and headroom
Rear climate controls
USB-C ports
Roof-mounted AC vents
Third row:
Adults can fit
USB-A port, vents, lighting
A usable seven-seater configuration, great for kids and occasional adult use.
Boot Space
~200 L with all rows up
500+ L with third row down
Massive space with second + third rows folded
Underfloor:
Space saver spare wheel (room for full size, but not included)
Driving Experience
Ride quality:
Comfortable and well-sorted
Stable even without region-specific suspension tuning
In sport mode:
Heavier steering
Noticeable body roll
Noise levels:
Acceptable road noise
Some wind noise
Safety system feedback:
Lane assist struggles and needs improvement
Visibility:
Great front & side visibility
Better rear visibility than most 7-seaters
Verdict
Does the MG QS rival the Kluger?
Yes — at nearly $30,000 less.
Strengths:
Exceptional value
Premium interior with strong feature list
Comfortable ride
Usable third row and large cabin
High equipment for price
Compromises:
Underwhelming drivetrain
Intrusive safety systems
Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto issues
If you want a feature-loaded 7-seater without spending Kluger money, the MG QS makes a compelling case.
Frequently Asked Questions: 2025 MG QS Essence
1. Is the 2025 MG QS cheaper than the Toyota Kluger?
Yes. The MG QS Essence is priced around $50,000 drive-away, while a top-spec Toyota Kluger can exceed $80,000. That makes the MG QS a significantly more affordable seven-seat SUV option.
2. Does the MG QS have a real seven-seater interior?
Yes. The MG QS offers a usable third row with vents, USB ports, and enough space for adults on shorter journeys. It performs well as a practical seven-seat family SUV.
3. What engine does the MG QS use?
It uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine that produces just over 150 kW and 350 Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.
4. Is the fuel efficiency of the MG QS good?
The claimed fuel consumption is below 9 L/100 km, but real-world usage exceeds 10 L/100 km. Premium 95-octane fuel is required.
5. Are the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto reliable?
Wireless smartphone connectivity is available, but users have reported connection drops and buggy reconnection. This may require future software updates.
6. How comfortable is the MG QS for long drives?
The MG QS has a refined ride, comfortable seats with heating and ventilation, and quiet cabin. It is well suited for family highway trips.
7. Does the MG QS include advanced safety features?
Yes. It includes lane assist, 360-degree camera, sensors, and other driver aids. Some systems feel intrusive and may require disabling during highway driving.
