We informed you earlier that JSW MG Motor India will focus on green energy vehicles, including hybrids, plug-in hybrid and electric. The brand will enter the plug-in hybrid segment before the end of FY26-27, by March 2027. It is expected that the brand’s first PHEV will be based on the Wuling Starlight 560, which is already on sale in the Chinese market.
In fact, JSW MG Motor India has already filed a design patent for the Starlight 560 SUV. The company will soon launch the Majestor full-size SUV, and the Plug-in hybrid SUV is expected to arrive before the end of current calendar year. If reports are to be believed, the MG PHEV could launch by October 2026, before Diwali.
Interestingly, the company is considering both PHEV and all-electric derivative of the Starlight 560 for the Indian market. While the Plug-in Hybrid model will rival the Mahindra XUV 7XO, the electric version will take on the Mahindra XEV 9S.
The Wuling Starlight 560 is available in both 5 and 7-seat options in the home market. It is offered with three powertrain choices, including petrol, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric. The ICE powered model gets a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo petrol engine that produces up to 177bhp. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic. This version is not likely to arrive in our market. JSW MG could aim to introduce only the PHEV and EV versions of the SUV in a 7-seater avatar.
Plug-in Hybrid Version
The Starlight 560 PHEV version is powered by a 1.5L naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 106hp and 130Nm, and a 20.5kWh battery pack with a front-axle-mounted electric motor. The combined power and torque output stands at 197hp and 230Nm, respectively. It is claimed to offer an electric-only range of up to 100-125km (CLTC – China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) and a combined driving range of 1100km. The Starlight 560 can achieve 0-100kmph in 9.7 seconds before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 170kmph.
Electric Version
The Chinese-spec model is offered with two battery choices, including a 54.2kWh and a 69.2kWh. While the former is claimed to offer a range of 450km, the bigger battery offers 540km on the CLTC. We believe that the India-spec model could get a bigger battery pack with higher range.
Key Details
12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit
Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
8.8-inch digital driver’s display
Six-speaker audio system
Automatic AC
Reclining + Lounge-style seating
6 airbags
ABS with EBD
360-degree surround view camera
Vehicle stability control
Panoramic sunroof
Measuring 4,745mm in length, the new MG Starlight 560 is 50mm longer than the XUV 7XO and rides on 2810mm long wheelbase.
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