MG’s New PHEV spotted in India

JSW MG Motor has been gearing up to enter the hybrid segment with their upcoming midsize SUV, expected to be called the MG Starlight 560. The new SUV, internally known as Project 520, is expected to ride on a flexible F-platform designed to support EV, plug-in hybrid, and ICE configurations.

Spy Shots

MG Starlight PHEV SUV Spied in India
MG Starlight PHEV SUV Spied in India

It’s only been days since MG has confirmed the plans for this car and now, we have the spy shots. Yes, this car was spied in India for the first time, as a heavily camouflaged test mule near Vadodara in Gujarat, not so far from MG’s manufacturing plant in Halol. Spy shots are credited to TechnCarLand and techbuzzno1 channels.

The latest spy shot images confirm that MG has indeed lined up the Starlight 560 for the Indian market. The SUV was seen with a red temporary number plate with GJ 17, indicating a Vadodara RTO region, which confirms that this is indeed an official MG Motor India test vehicle. Earlier reports indicate that the Starlight 560 is expected to be part of MG’s aggressive 2026 product expansion.

Design and Exterior

MG Starlight PHEV SUV Spied in India
MG Starlight PHEV SUV Spied in India

The SUV appears to be slightly larger than a conventional midsize SUV, aligning closer to 4.7 to 4.8 meter segment. This is the biggest indicator of it being the MG Starlight 560, since the car measures up to 4,745 mm in length.

Despite the camouflage, a few details are clear. The SUV has an upright stance with a wide road presence, a squared-off front fascia, split headlamp setup with slim upper lighting elements, large alloy wheels, connected LED tail light signature, and strong shoulder line and boxy proportions. All of this lines up perfectly with the Starlight 560.

While EV powertrain is expected, this one is likely the PHEV variant, which is expected to launch first. When launched, this SUV will go up against Mahindra XUV 7XO, Mahindra XEV 9S, Tata Harrier EV, and more.

Powertrain Options: Hybrid and EV

MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Front
MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Front

Plug-in Hybrid Variant — Expected specifications include:

  • 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor
  • Combined output: around 194 BHP and 230 Nm
  • Battery: approximately 20.5 kWh
  • Electric-only range: up to 100 km
  • 0–100 km/h: about 9.7 seconds
  • Top speed: around 170 km/h

For many urban buyers, a 100-km electric range could realistically cover daily driving without fuel use, which is why I think PHEVs may find a niche audience in India despite mixed adoption globally.

MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Rear
MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Rear

Full Electric Variant — International versions indicate:

  • Battery: about 56.7 kWh
  • Range: up to 500 km (CLTC cycle)
  • Motor output: around 134 BHP and 200 Nm

MG Manufacturing Upgrades

To support upcoming launches, MG is reconfiguring its plant in Halol. Manufacturing head Biju Balendran indicated that the changes involve significant modifications, especially in the body shop. Key capacity plans include 1.8 lakh units annually by 2026 and over 3-3.5 lakh units after 2027 with an additional production line. From an industry perspective, this signals that MG is planning not just one product, but a broader portfolio expansion.

MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Interior and Dashboard
MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Interior and Dashboard

Why This Launch Matters

If priced aggressively and equipped with competitive features, the Starlight 560 could:

  • Accelerate electrification in the midsize SUV segment
  • Pressure rivals to expand hybrid and EV offerings
  • Offer buyers more choice across powertrain types
  • Strengthen MG’s presence beyond entry-level EVs

The real test, as always, will be pricing and real-world efficiency, two factors that often decide success in India more than specifications alone.

Launch Timeline

While MG has yet to officially announce the launch of the MG Starlight 560, the testing phase indicates a possible launch in late 2026 (possibly October), or early 2027. With Halol plant expansions underway, the model is expected to be manufactured in India with a highly competitive price, possibly undercutting the competition by large.

MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Steering and Screen
MG Motor - Wuling Starlight 560 - Steering and Screen

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs

Q. When is the MG Starlight 560 expected to launch in India?

  • The SUV is expected to arrive around October, though official confirmation of timelines is still pending.

Q. Will the Starlight 560 be available as an EV?

  • Yes, MG plans to offer both plug-in hybrid and full-electric versions based on the same platform.

Q. What is the expected electric-only range of the hybrid variant?

  • The plug-in hybrid is expected to deliver up to 100 km of electric-only driving under ideal conditions.

Q. Where will the Starlight 560 be manufactured?

  • Production is expected at MG’s Halol facility in Gujarat, which is currently undergoing upgrades.

Q. Why is MG focusing on hybrids and EVs in this segment?

  • MG believes future growth will be driven by new energy vehicles, and offering multiple electrified options helps address different buyer needs.