NEW hybrid versions of the MG HS SUV have been announced with two trim levels - SE and Trophy - and prices starting from less than £29,000.

Powered by a dedicated 1.5T petrol engine and a 145kw electric motor with an on board generator and large capacity 1.8kWh battery linked to a two-speed auto transmission, the new HS Hybrid+ models offer up to 51.3mpg and acceleration from standstill to 62mph in under eight seconds.

Priced at £28,995 for the entry-level SE and £31,495 for the better-equipped Trophy model, the newcomers benefit from MG's seven-year/80,000 miles warranty.

Both versions come with two prominent 12.3-inch, high-definition display screens. The central display is dedicated to infotainment with live navigation services including weather, live traffic updates, access to Amazon Music and smartphone connectivity via both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The Trophy model also features a 360 degree surround view camera with real-time visualisation of the vehicle and its surroundings, powered by the driver assistance systems, and wireless smartphone charging.

The second 12.3-inch virtual driver display offers two themes - light and dark - and three modes - Map, Digital, and ADAS. Each offers its own unique layout, focusing on either a rolling navigation display or a simplified display of only the most important information.

Depending on trim level, standard kit includes automatic full LED headlights with follow-me-home function, rear parking sensors, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, six-way adjustable electric driver's seat and four-way adjustable front passenger seat, air conditioning, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control and an electric parking brake with auto-hold function.

There's a full suite of safety features including active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist with lane departure warning system, blind spot detection with lane change assist, driver attention alert, forward collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and door open warning as standard.