On Day 1 of Auto Expo 2023, MG Motor announced prices for the facelifted Hector and Hector Plus SUVs. The carmaker has also showcased several models from its global line-up in an effort to gauge customer interest in India. These include the likes of the eMG6 hybrid sedan, MG eHS SUV, MG eRX5 SUV and Marvel R, among others. We take a close look at each of the models.
MG eHS SUV
The eHS is a Harrier-sized plug-in hybrid SUV that’s on sale in markets like Europe. It sits a segment above the MG Astor and its design closely resembles the pre-facelift MG ZS EV that was sold in India. The interior, in typical MG fashion, is loaded with features such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, connected car tech as well as a full suite of ADAS features.
Also see: Carmakers at Auto Expo 2023: Complete A-Z guide
Under the hood, the eHS is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 160hp and 250Nm of torque. The engine is coupled with a 120hp electric motor for a combined output of 254hp. The electric motor draws power from a 16.6kWh battery that even allows for an EV-only range of 52km (WLTP cycle). The eHS could be one of MG’s first global models to soon be offered in India.
eMG6 hybrid sedan
The eMG6 is a Skoda Octavia-sized sedan that’s sold in markets like China. It’s a typical three-box sedan with aggressive styling cues – there’s a bold, blackened grille up front with angular creases on the front bumper; the rear gets an aggressively styled diffuser and even a boot lid spoiler. On the inside, the eMG6 has an Astor-like cabin with the touchscreen integrated in the dashboard, a traditional centre console with several buttons and a digital instrument cluster.
Globally, the eMG6 is offered with a sole petrol-plug-in hybrid powertrain option – there’s a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that’s coupled with an electric motor for a combined output of 305hp and 480Nm of peak torque. The powertrain comes mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
MG Marvel R
The MG Marvel R is an all-electric SUV that’s the largest and most luxurious model in the MG family. It is essentially a rebadged Roewe Marvel-R, and is on sale in European markets. It features full-width LED light bars at the front and rear, split headlamp set-up, a sealed-off grille, flush door handles and very clean and smooth body work. Measuring 4,674mm long with a wheelbase of 2,804mm, it is sized similarly to a Skoda Enyaq iV.
On the inside, the Marvel R features MG’s latest iSmart infotainment platform which operates through an expansive 19.4-inch central touchscreen flowing down the centre console. The Marvel R is also equipped with an enhanced suite of advanced driver aids, dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, part-leather upholstery and a six-way electrically adjustable driver's seat.
Globally, the Marvel R gets two powertrain options – there’s a dual-motor, rear-wheel-drive set-up, providing 178hp and 410Nm of peak torque. There’s also a performance version that has an additional electric motor on the front axle, boosting output to 285hp and 664Nm. A 70kWh battery pack is fitted as standard to all cars, providing the Marvel R with a WLTP-certified range of 370-400km, depending on the drivetrain.
Roewe eRX5
MG has also showcased the eRX5 plug-in hybrid SUV – it is essentially a rebadged ‘Roewe’ that’s sold in China. The eRX5 has a very Lexus-like face with the grille spanning almost the entire front fascia, and is flanked by slim, triangular headlamps. On the inside, the hybrid SUV boasts of a minimalistic interior, with the highlight being a one-piece, 27-inch screen. Other highlights of the cabin include the high-set centre console with a brushed aluminium finish and a slim three-spoke steering wheel.
Under the hood, the eRX5 is powered by a 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain. The 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 188hp. This is coupled with an electric motor and a 10-speed automatic transmission for a combined output of 245hp and 570Nm of peak torque.
Also See:
Auto Expo 2023: MG eHS walkaround video
Auto Expo 2023: MG Euniq 7 fuel-cell MPV unveiled
Auto Expo 2023: MG 5 EV estate shown in India
Auto Expo 2023: MG 4 EV hatchback showcased in India