Back in mid-February, we reported that JSW MG Motor is gearing up to introduce its first plug-in-hybrid SUV in India, which is likely to be based on the Wuling Starlight 560. And now, the design of the same SUV from its sister brand has been patented in India, affirming that the model is under active consideration for the Indian market. It is expected to be launched around the festive season this year.
The filing of the design patent lists SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Company Limited as the applicant, and interestingly, it does not feature Wuling badging. However, the overall design resembles the international-spec version. Recently, the SUV was also spied testing in India.
Design and Dimensions
Speaking of the design of the upcoming plug-in-hybrid SUV from MG, it features a boxy, upright stance with a large blacked-out grille, a prominent skid plate on the bumper, a high bonnet line and LED headlamps with integrated dual LED strips dominating the front fascia.
Riding on 18-inch alloys, the SUV boasts squared-off wheel arches and cladding along the lower sections. It also features a muscular bulge above the rear wheels, adding to its rugged and tough appearance.
Globally, the Starlight 560 is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat (3-row) layouts. It measures 4,745mm in length, 1,850mm in width and 1,755mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,810mm.
Also Read: MG Cars To Get Costlier Starting April 2026
Interior and Features
While the interior of the car has yet to be seen, it is expected to be the same as its Chinese counterpart, featuring a minimalist dashboard layout with a floating 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display. Somewhat similar to the Windsor EV, most functions will be integrated into the infotainment screen.
For creatures’ comfort & convenience, expect it to come equipped with amenities like auto climate control with rear AC vents, a powered driver seat, front seat ventilation, panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, electronic parking brakes with auto hold, six airbags, hill assist, TPMS, and a level-2 ADAS suite.
Powertrain
The Wuling Starlight 560 is sold with both plug-in-hybrid and all-electric powertrains in international markets; however, we aren’t sure if the brand will also introduce its electric version in India.
For reference, its PHEV version uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine (105PS/130Nm), paired with a front electric motor and a 20.5kWh battery pack, producing a combined output of 197PS of max power and 230Nm of peak torque. It claims 125km of range in all-electric mode, while the WLTP combined range is rated at 1100km with its 52-litre fuel tank. On the other hand, the EV version comes equipped with a 56.7kWh battery and a front-mounted motor generating 136PS and 200Nm. It claims up to 500km range.
Price and Rivals
We expect the upcoming MG 520 PHEV SUV to be priced in a similar ballpark as the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV 7XO. Upon its arrival, the SUV will enjoy a certain level of exclusivity in the Indian market.
