JSW MG Motor India has announced the debut of a new energy vehicle on July 16, marking another significant step in the brand's electrification strategy. While the brand has not officially disclosed the model's identity, industry reports suggest it could be the India-bound version of the Wuling Starlight 560, a midsize SUV offered globally with both plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains. The development comes months after MG filed a design patent for the SUV in India, hinting at plans to introduce the model in the country.
Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain Likely
The upcoming SUV is expected to become MG's first plug-in hybrid offering for the Indian market. Internationally, the Starlight 560 PHEV uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a 20.5 kWh battery pack.
This setup develops a combined output of 197 hp and 230 Nm, sending power to the front wheels. One of the biggest highlights of the powertrain is its claimed driving range of up to 1,100 km, while the battery alone can support around 100 km of pure-electric driving under ideal conditions.
MG could also introduce a fully electric version at a later stage. Overseas markets receive the EV with a 56.7 kWh battery pack and a front-mounted electric motor producing 136 hp. The electric variant claims a driving range of up to 500 km on the CLTC cycle.
Rugged SUV Styling With Three-Row
Measuring nearly 4.75 metres in length, the SUV adopts a traditional upright design with a strong road presence. The plug-in hybrid version features a large black front grille, while the electric version gets a cleaner, closed-off fascia.
Other exterior highlights include slim LED headlamps, distinctive LED daytime running lights, roof rails, chunky wheel arch cladding and dual-tone alloy wheels. The rear styling remains relatively simple, with wraparound LED tail lamps and a roof-mounted spoiler.
Given its size and wheelbase, the SUV is expected to offer a spacious cabin and could be positioned as a family-focused three-row vehicle.
Interior And Features
Inside, the global-spec model features a minimalist dashboard layout with a large central touchscreen and a fully digital instrument display. The cabin follows a clean design theme while offering seating for up to seven occupants.
Equipment highlights include ventilated and powered front seats, wireless phone charging, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof and connected car features. Safety equipment includes six airbags, an electronic parking brake, a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill-hold assist and an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) suite. However, the India-spec version is expected to retain most of these features.
