MG is gearing up for an aggressive expansion in India’s SUV segment in 2026, with plans to introduce multiple new models blending electric, plug-in hybrid, and premium ICE offerings. As part of JSW MG Motor India’s strategy to strengthen its foothold in the fast-growing new energy vehicle (NEV) space—where it already ranks as a top player thanks to hits like the Windsor EV—the brand aims to launch up to four new SUVs this year, including electrified options that could reshape buyer preferences in mid-size and larger segments.
Recent statements from company leadership, including Managing Director Anurag Mehrotra, highlight a focus on new energy vehicles (EVs and PHEVs), with three out of the four planned launches expected to be electrified. This comes amid broader ambitions to introduce around six models between 2026 and 2027, targeting 75% of sales from NEVs while maintaining select ICE products.
1. MG S5 EV: The Sleek Successor to the ZS EVNext in line for MG’s electric portfolio is the MG S5 EV, an all-new compact-to-mid-size electric SUV poised to replace the long-standing MG ZS EV in India. The ZS EV has been a staple in the brand’s lineup for years, appealing to urban buyers with its practicality and features.The S5 EV brings a more modern, premium evolution:
- Sleeker exterior styling with sharp lines, full LED headlamps, and a contemporary front fascia.
- Large dual-tone alloy wheels for enhanced road presence.
- Connected LED tail lamps that add a tech-forward aesthetic.
- Improved aerodynamics and a refreshed cabin expected to feature advanced infotainment, better materials, and enhanced range/efficiency over the outgoing model.
Expected to debut in India around early-to-mid 2026 (following global launches and showcases at events like Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025), the S5 EV will compete in the crowded electric mid-size SUV space against rivals like the Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, and Mahindra BE 6. It promises a compelling mix of premium design, competitive range, and MG’s signature value proposition.
2. MG’s First Plug-in Hybrid SUV: Pioneering Mass-Market PHEVMG has confirmed its entry into the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) segment in India—the first from a mass-market brand—with a new large SUV. This model, internally codenamed 520, is set to launch by October 2026 and will be available in both pure EV and PHEV variants.Key highlights include:
- Based on the global Wuling Starlight 560 (known as Xingguang in China and Wuling Eksion in Indonesia), offering a spacious 7-seater layout.
- PHEV powertrain featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 20.5 kWh battery and electric motor, delivering around 197 hp and 230 Nm combined output.
- Impressive performance claims, including 0-100 km/h in about 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h.
- Positioned to rival the Mahindra XUV 7XO in the mid-size 7-seater space for the PHEV version, and the Mahindra XEV 9S for the EV variant.
As MG’s inaugural PHEV in India, it could debut through the premium MG Select dealership network (one of the four planned SUVs is expected to go via MG Select, while the others through regular outlets). This move addresses range anxiety for buyers transitioning from ICE vehicles, offering electric-only driving for daily commutes with petrol backup for longer trips.
3. MG Eksion (All-Electric MG 520 Variant)
Closely tied to the above is the all-electric version of the codenamed 520 SUV, potentially badged as the MG Eksion in India (mirroring its Indonesian naming as Wuling Eksion).Specs from global counterparts include:
- A 56.7 kWh battery pack.
- Front-mounted electric motor producing 136 hp and 200 Nm of torque.
- Claimed driving range of around 500 km (WLTP or similar cycle).
This pure EV variant will target buyers seeking zero-emission family mobility in a spacious 7-seater package, directly challenging emerging electric 7-seaters and mid-size EVs. With its larger dimensions (around 4,745 mm length) and practical seating, it could fill a gap in MG’s lineup for bigger families wanting electrification.These upcoming SUVs align with MG’s investment push (₹3,000–4,000 crore planned over the next few years) and broader NEV focus, including the recently unveiled MG Majestor (a premium D+ segment SUV competing with the Toyota Fortuner, launching in April-May 2026). The electrified models signal MG’s intent to blend nostalgia for practical SUVs with futuristic powertrains.With India’s EV and hybrid adoption accelerating, MG’s 2026 lineup—featuring refreshed designs, advanced tech, and multi-powertrain flexibility—could significantly boost its market share. Which of these excites you most: the premium S5 EV, the groundbreaking PHEV, or the spacious Eksion EV?
