CHINESE-owned MG is enjoying spectacular growth at the moment as a result of producing well-equipped cars cheaper than most of the opposition.

The MG HS SUV model recently had a facelift with changes to the front and rear styling.

The manufacturer didnot increase prices sticking with £23,495 for the entry level SE specification with the range topping Trophy version costing from £25,995.

The new model I have been driving has a sharper, more aggressive look and comes with bi-function LED headlights, a changed grille design and a new front bumper while at the rear it gets a new bumper design, revised dual exhaust outlets and LED taillights.

Both the SE and Trophy models boast generous equipment levels.

All models are powered by a 1.5 litre, turbocharged petrol engine delivering up to 162ps.

A manual gearbox is standard, with an optional dual clutch DCT gearbox offered across SE and Trophy specifications.

The new MG HS still offers lots of space and comfort and the cabin features decent materials and quality.

The 10.1-inch infotainment system has been upgraded with enhanced hardware, allowing faster and smoother operation.

SE specification includes bi-function LED headlights with front and rear sequential indicators for the first time - alongside air conditioning, satellite navigation, rear parking camera with sensors, rain sensing wipers, keyless entry and a leather steering wheel as standard.

Trophy specification adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, ambient interior lighting, rear privacy glass and an upgraded audio system.

MG Pilot, the company's comprehensive package of safety equipment, is available across the range as standard - equipping the HS with active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist with lane departure warning system, intelligent speed limit assist, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and intelligent high beam assist.

The automatic model I sampled also offered a selection of driving modes,Eco, Normal and Sport and the latter can be enabled by pressing a 'supersport' button on the steering wheel.

The 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine is turbocharged and it performs well enough and without fuss. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic provides smooth changes and you can also change gears manually by using paddles on the steering wheel.

On the practical front the boot is not huge with 463-litres on offer but that means there is a lot of legroom for rear passengers.

The handling focuses on comfort rather than performance and the ride is about average for an SUV.