JSW MG Motor India has announced an upcoming product, signaling the next phase of its electrified vehicle strategy in the country. Although the company has not revealed the name of the vehicle, there are indications that it could be the new mid-size SUV based on the Wuling Starlight 560, a model that has already been spotted testing on Indian roads.
The teaser gives the message, “The Internet Inside has changed the way India drives. Now, it’s time to power the next evolution. Join us as we redefine the way India thinks about new energy vehicles.” The reference to the “Internet Inside” is a nod to the Hector, which was launched in 2019 and popularized connected car technology in the mass-market SUV segment.
New SUV will likely lead MG’s NEV push
The focus of the teaser is on “New Energy Vehicles” which strongly hints towards either an electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid offering. This is in line with MG’s previously stated plans to enter the plug-in hybrid segment in India.
Industry sources indicate that the most likely candidate is an upcoming mid-size SUV internally codenamed 520, which is based on the Wuling Starlight 560 sold overseas. The design patent of the SUV was recently filed in India, while test mules have also been spotted during road tests.
large three-row SUV
The Starlight 560 is positioned above the Hector and could become one of the biggest products in MG’s mainstream lineup. Internationally, the SUV measures 4,745 mm in length and rides on a 2,810 mm wheelbase. It is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat configurations.
Spy shots and patent filings reveal a boxy SUV design with an upright stance, large grille, LED lighting elements, square wheel arches and ample road presence. The overall styling is completely different from the current MG SUVs sold in India. At the rear, the SUV gets a vertical tailgate design, connected LED lighting elements and a roof-mounted spoiler. Depending on the variant and powertrain, styling differences are expected between the EV and plug-in hybrid versions.
Premium cabin expected
International versions of the SUV feature a minimalist dashboard layout with a large 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Other features include automatic climate control, connected car technology and a comprehensive suite of comfort and convenience features. For India, MG may further expand the equipment list to suit local buyer preferences.
EV and plug-in hybrid powertrains
Globally, the Starlight 560 is available with both EV and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The PHEV version combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a battery pack to deliver a combined output of 197 hp and 230 Nm of torque. It offers electric-only driving range of up to 100 km under CLTC cycle.
The fully electric version uses a 56.7 kWh battery pack mated to a front-mounted electric motor producing 136 hp and 200 Nm. The claimed range on the CLTC cycle is up to 500 km. Although MG has not confirmed in the teaser which powertrain will arrive in India first Emphasis on new energy vehicles And the company’s plans for the hybrid segment suggest that a plug-in hybrid version could play a key role in the launch strategy.
Expected to launch later this year
The new SUV is expected to make its official debut in the coming months, possibly before Diwali 2026. Once introduced, it will take on rivals like Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari, Innova HighCross etc. More details about MG’s next new energy vehicle are likely to be revealed soon.
