Quick Reads:
- The MG Starlight 560 will be availabeas a PHEV and EV
- The SUV is patented and spied testing multiple times
- Will be a large 3-row SUV for the Indian markets
Followed by multiple spy shots surfacing in international markets, the MG Starlight 560 has stepped into the limelight as a fully equipped production version, which is also India-bound. This most anticipated debut for the Indian market is based on the Wuling Starlight 560 platform, with the Eksion nameplate. With a 4.7-metre-long dimension, this upcoming SUV measures somewhat similar to the MG Hector Plus.
With MG planning to expand its EV lineup in India, featuring this 3-row SUV, here’s a detailed breakdown of what this MG Starlight brings to the table:
MG Starlight 560 | Exterior Design:
The MG Starlight 560 has a decent footprint, balancing boxy design, muscular stance and aerodynamic design elements:
The Fascia: The MG Starlight 560 (or the Wuling Eksion) features LED twin-strip DRLs, a functional blacked-out grille, and a prominent silver bumper element, complemented by a contoured front design. The sleek LED headlights, with a bulky but clean front section, give the Starlight 560 a bold stance.
The Side Profile: With a long wheelbase design, this 3-row SUV is designed to offer a significant road presence to catch the glance of passersby. To lend the same attribute, the MG Starlight 560 features large 18-inch tyres, with aerodynamically designed and machined alloy wheels. The chunky wheelarch claddings also complement the MG Starlight 560’s SUV credentials.
The Rear Section: The rear section is neat and clean with minimal usage of elements, but sufficient integrations to provide the MG Starlight 560 a bold and muscular SUV appearance. For the same appeal, the rear section gets LED taillights, an integrated roof spoiler, and a contrasting silver lower skid plate element. Overall, the new MG Starlight 560 has a bold SUV appearance.
MG Starlight 560 | Powertrain Details:
| MG Starlight 560 Specifications | Starlight 560 PHEV | Starlight 560 EV |
| Engine | Motor | 1.5-litre NA Engine + Electric Motor | Single Electric Motor (Front Axle) |
| Battery Capacity | 20.5 kWh | 69.2 kWh |
| Peak Power | 145 kW (194 Hp) (Combined Output) | 150 kW (201 Hp) |
| Maximum Torque | 230 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Pure Electric Range | 125 Km | 530 Km |
| Combined Range | Over 1000 Km | – |
The PHEV, or Plug-In-Hybrid Electric Vehicle, model of the Starlight 560 offers customers a bridge to transition from regular internal combustion engine vehicles to a much more efficient solution like the PHEV model. For customers wanting to shift to an all-electric SUV, the Starlight 560 EV is ideal, which offers high-driving range and high-torque performance without compromising overall power output.
MG Starlight 560 | Cabin Tech And Safety:
Inside the Starlight 560, the vehicle comes with multiple tech elements but with a minimalist cabin layout and an orientated design approach:
- Infotainment | Display System: The central dashboard layout is dominated by a 12.8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The integrated digital instrument cluster is an 8.8-inch display system which is deemed informative.
- Seating Arrangement: The MG Starlight 560 cabin has a 3-row seating layout which can seat up to 7 occupants comfortably. The cabin comes with leatherette upholstery, powered and ventilated front seats and a climate control system, also with rear AC vents.
- ADAS Safety System: The Starlight 560 from MG is expected to feature level-2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance system), 360-degree camera, ABS and ESC (electronic stability control), among other safety systems.
Conclusion | What This Means For The Indian Market?
MG Motor India has patented the design locally, with plans for strategic local assembly slated for commencement at its Halol production facility. The MG Starlight 560, when launched in India, will be positioned right between the MG Hector Plus and larger SUVs. Prices for the MG Starlight 560 can start from Rs 20 lakh, ranging up to Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom). Key rivals for the Starlight 560 will be the Mahindra XUV 700 and the Tata Safari, among others. Meanwhile, the fully electric iteration can contend with the Mahindra XEV 9e, BE 6 and Hyundai Creta EV in India.
