Upcoming MG Starlight 560 EV Spied On Test: Launch Soon?

MG Motor's upcoming three-row SUV based on the Wuling Starlight platform has surfaced on Indian roads once again, suggesting that development for the market is progressing steadily. The MG Starlight SUV has already been spotted multiple times in the country and was also patented earlier, indicating that an Indian launch could be getting closer. Interestingly, the latest test mule appears to be the fully electric version, identifiable through its closed-off front grille and EV-specific detailing.

Globally, the Wuling Starlight lineup is available with multiple powertrain choices, including petrol, plug-in hybrid, and pure electric configurations. However, India is expected to primarily receive the EV and plug-in hybrid versions. Read on to find out more details in this section, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.

Also Read - Delhi To Introduces New Traffic Challan Rules With 45-Day Deadline

MG Starlight 560: Large SUV With A Strong Road Presence

Dimensionally, the MG Starlight SUV is positioned as a sizeable family-oriented offering. It measures around 4,745 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and approximately 1,770 mm in height, while the wheelbase stands at 2,810 mm. The design follows a more upright and rugged SUV approach, featuring squared-off wheel arches, a flat roofline, roof rails, and muscular body surfacing.

The front fascia gets slim lighting elements and a prominent bumper, while the EV version additionally features a sealed grille design for improved aerodynamics. Patent images and earlier sightings have also revealed dual-tone alloy wheels, blacked-out pillars, body cladding, and wraparound tail lamps. Although the test mule was heavily wrapped, it conforms with the international model currently on sale, hinting that not much is going to change.

While the test mule's interior was kept away from prying cameras, the global-spec model gives a fair indication of what to expect. MG is likely to equip the SUV with a feature-heavy cabin aimed at family buyers. Expected highlights include a large 12.8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, OTA updates, connected car tech, wireless charging, panoramic sunroof, and leatherette upholstery.

Other convenience features could include a column-mounted gear selector and reclinable rear seating layouts. The SUV is also expected to offer a spacious three-row cabin, which could allow the MG Startlight 560 to sit above the Windsor EV in MG's India lineup.

Powertrain Options

Internationally, the MG Starlight SUV is offered with naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. The turbo-petrol version uses a 1.5-litre engine producing up to 174 bhp and 290 Nm when paired with a CVT gearbox. The plug-in hybrid combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor setup and a 20.5 kWh battery pack, delivering nearly 194 bhp. The electric version, which is likely the one recently spotted in India, produces around 136 PS and 200 Nm. Globally, the EV is offered with battery packs as large as 69.2 kWh, with claimed CLTC ranges between 500 km and 540 km.

MG will be positioning the Starlight SUV as a more premium and spacious alternative to the Windsor EV, especially with a three-row layout and plug-in hybrid technology. The company also appears keen on gaining an early advantage in the mass-market PHEV segment, which currently has very limited competition in India.

Image Source