The MG 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Turbo – Petrol/Hybrid (SAIC) is a 1,490 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine integrated into a plug-in hybrid system since 2019. It features gasoline direct injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), working in concert with an electric motor. This powertrain, developed by SAIC Motor, delivers combined system outputs of approximately 190 kW (258 PS) and 480 Nm of torque, prioritizing efficiency and low-emission urban driving.
Fitted exclusively to the MG HS Plug-in Hybrid, the 1.5L PHEV was engineered for smooth electric-only operation and seamless transition to hybrid power under load. Emissions compliance for European markets is achieved through its hybrid architecture and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing the vehicle to meet stringent Euro 6d standards and qualify for low-emission zone access.
One documented area for attention is the potential for the hybrid battery cooling system to develop leaks, noted in SAIC Service Bulletin SB-COOL-PHEV-01. This can lead to reduced electric range or system faults. Software updates have continuously refined the energy management strategy to optimize battery longevity and fuel economy over the production run.
All production years (2019–Present) for vehicles sold in the UK meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MGHS20).
The MG 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Turbo – Petrol/Hybrid (SAIC) is a 1,490 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine, serving as the internal combustion component in a plug-in hybrid system (2019-Present). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to provide boost when needed, while the electric motor handles low-speed efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it enables significant reductions in fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output (Engine only) | 119 kW (162 PS) | |
| Torque (Engine only) | 250 Nm @ 1,700–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled (separate circuit for hybrid battery) | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W‑30 (ACEA C2/C3 specification) | |
| Dry weight (Engine only) | Approx. 120 kg |
The hybrid system prioritizes electric driving; the petrol engine typically activates under hard acceleration or when the battery is depleted. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals is critical for turbo and chain longevity. ACEA C2/C3 5W-30 oil is mandatory to protect emissions components. The separate battery cooling system requires periodic inspection for leaks (SAIC SB-COOL-PHEV-01). Software updates for the hybrid control unit are available via SAIC dealers to optimize performance and battery management.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C2/C3 5W-30 specification (SAIC SB-LUB-001). Compatible with API SP.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all UK-market PHEV models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/MGHS20). Real-world emissions monitored under WLTP.
Power Ratings: Engine-only output measured under ISO 1585 standards. Combined system output is 190 kW (SAIC PT-MG-15PHEV-01).
SAIC Technical Information System: Docs TM-ENG-15PHEV-02, SB-LUB-001, SB-COOL-PHEV-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/MGHS20)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The MG 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Turbo – Petrol/Hybrid (SAIC) is used exclusively in MG's compact SUV platform with transverse mounting. This engine is not a standalone unit; it is an integral component of the HS PHEV's hybrid powertrain, sharing its core architecture with the conventional 1.5T eGT but calibrated for hybrid operation. No significant facelift revisions have created interchange limits for the internal combustion component to date. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (SAIC TIS ENG-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit for the HS PHEV is typically 'P'. Visually, the engine is nearly identical to the 1.5T eGT but is part of a system featuring a high-voltage battery pack under the rear seats and an orange high-voltage cable running to the electric motor/generator. Critical differentiation: the presence of the hybrid system components. Engine parts are generally consistent with the 1.5T eGT, but software and some ancillary sensors are specific to the PHEV variant.
The 1.5L PHEV's primary system-level concern is potential leaks in the hybrid battery cooling circuit, documented in SAIC service bulletins. UK DVSA data shows no elevated failure rates for the petrol engine core, but hybrid system faults can trigger immobilization. Neglecting the 12-month service interval can accelerate wear on conventional engine components and compromise the hybrid system's thermal management.
Analysis derived from SAIC technical bulletins (2019-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MG 1-5L-PHEV-TURBO.
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