JSW MG Motor India is gearing up for an aggressive push into the new energy vehicle segment with two new SUVs launching in India this fiscal year. The first will be a 7-seater electric SUV positioned as a direct rival to the Mahindra XEV 9S, with reports indicating a potential August launch, followed by a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant.
Both models will be based on the MG ADAPT platform (also associated with the flexible architecture from models like the Wuling Starlight 560). This platform is engineered for multiple powertrain options, including pure EVs, plug-in hybrids, traditional hybrids, and range-extender electric vehicles. This modularity gives MG significant flexibility to adapt to evolving market demands and regulatory requirements in India.
The upcoming electric SUV shares substantial DNA with the Wuling Starlight 560, which has already been spotted testing extensively on Indian roads. Measuring approximately 4.7 meters (around 4,745 mm) in length, the vehicle offers a spacious three-row, 7-seat configuration. Its boxy, upright stance, combined with modern LED lighting, a prominent grille (closed-off for the EV variant), and substantial road presence, positions it as a practical yet stylish family SUV.
Expect it to slot above the Hector in MG’s lineup, competing with models like the Mahindra XUV 7XO / XEV 9S, Tata Safari, and similar three-row offerings. Recent reports suggest it may be badged as the Hector Hawk (PHEV and EV variants) in India, leveraging the strong Hector brand equity.
The electric version is expected to feature a 69 kWh battery pack paired with a 198 BHP electric motor driving the front axle. MG claims a maximum range of up to 600 km, which would make it highly competitive against the 70 kWh variant of the Mahindra XEV 9S.
Global specifications for the Starlight 560 EV platform often reference a 56.7–69.2 kWh battery with around 134–204 hp and a CLTC range in the 500–530+ km territory, depending on the pack. India-specific tuning and ARAI testing will determine final figures, but the provided specs align with ambitious positioning for the market.
The plug-in hybrid variant is likely to use a 1.5-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor and a smaller battery (around 20–25 kWh), delivering combined outputs near 194–197 BHP, with a decent pure-electric range (up to ~100 km in some global tests) and strong overall efficiency.
These launches come as MG aims to boost its new energy vehicle share significantly. The company has previewed PHEV technology and is using the flexible ADAPT-style platform to offer customers multiple electrified choices without committing exclusively to pure EVs amid varying infrastructure and policy landscapes.
The July 16, 2026, preview event (recently held or imminent) is expected to showcase the PHEV technology, with full market launches for the duo following later in 2026. Pricing is anticipated to start in a competitive range (potentially from around ₹20 lakh ex-showroom onward, subject to confirmation), making advanced powertrains accessible.
Expect a feature-rich interior with large touchscreens (e.g., 12.8-inch infotainment), digital driver displays, ADAS suites, panoramic sunroof, premium audio, and modern connected car tech. The cabin is described as minimalist yet practical, with good space for three rows.
With these two SUVs, JSW MG Motor India is not just expanding its portfolio but also demonstrating a multi-pathway approach to electrification. The combination of proven global platforms, flexible powertrains, and competitive specs could help the brand gain strong traction in the fiercely competitive midsize and three-row SUV segments
