New MG '520' SUV Spied in India: Tata Safari Rival to get PHEV and EV Power

JSW MG Motor India is significantly ramping up its "New Energy Vehicle" (NEV) portfolio with a new flagship SUV, codenamed MG 520, which has been spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time. Slated for an official India launch around October 2026, this upcoming premium SUV is based on the Wuling Starlight 560 and is set to disrupt the mid size and executive SUV segments with a dual threat strategy: a long range Plug in Hybrid (PHEV) and a pure Electric (EV) powertrain.

MG 520: The Rebadged Wuling Starlight 560 Connection

The test mules, spotted with GJ 17 (Panchmahal/Halol) registration plates near MG’s manufacturing facility, confirm that the new SUV is a rebadged version of the Wuling Starlight 560. Measuring approximately 4.7 meters in length, the MG 520 will be positioned above the MG Hector, serving as a more premium, tech loaded alternative in the 7-seater space.

Design and Exterior Features

Despite the heavy camouflage, several key design elements align with the international Starlight 560:

• Front Fascia: A sleek dual pod LED projector headlamp setup with integrated DRLs.

• Grille: A prominent honeycomb mesh grille was visible on the test mule, confirming it as the PHEV variant (the EV version typically features a blanked off grille).

• Profile: The SUV sits on 18-inch dual tone alloy wheels and features functional roof rails and a shark fin antenna.

• Tech Integration: Visible sensors suggest the inclusion of a 360 degree camera system and a Radar based Level 2 ADAS suite.

Performance: PHEV vs. EV Powertrains

MG is betting big on powertrain diversity to tackle range anxiety while offering a green alternative.

1. MG 520 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

The PHEV variant is expected to pair a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a dedicated electric motor.

• Battery: 20.5kWh LFP pack.

• Electric Range: Approximately 100–125 km (CLTC) on pure electric power.

• Combined Range: A massive 1,100 km, making it ideal for long distance touring.

• Output: A combined system output of roughly 197hp and 230Nm of torque.

2. MG 520 Electric (EV)

The pure electric version will likely share components with the MG Windsor EV but with a larger battery to handle the extra weight.

• Battery: 56.7kWh LFP pack.

• Range: A claimed 500 km (CLTC) on a single charge.

• Motor: Front-axle mounted motor producing 136hp and 200Nm.

Premium Interiors and Technology

While the India spec interior is yet to be fully revealed, the global model boasts a minimalist aesthetic. Expect a massive 12.8-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 2 spoke multifunction steering wheel. Features like ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual zone climate control are expected to be standard for the Indian market.

Launch Timeline and Competition

The MG 520 is slated for an official India launch around October 2026.

In terms of competition, the MG 520 PHEV will take on the internal combustion and hybrid versions of the Mahindra XUV 7XO and Tata Safari. Meanwhile, the MG 520 EV will directly challenge the upcoming Tata Harrier.ev and the Mahindra XEV 9S.

With local manufacturing at the Halol plant, MG is expected to price the SUV aggressively, potentially starting in the ₹25 lakh to ₹32 lakh range, making it a formidable contender in India’s growing premium SUV market.