JSW MG Motor India has confirmed plans to introduce its first plug-in hybrid SUV in the Indian market, with an official launch announced for mid-July. This new model is based on the MG Hector platform and is positioned as a long-range, fuel-efficient alternative to conventional petrol SUVs. Additionally, MG is preparing to launch a new 7-seat electric SUV based on the MG Adapt platform, marking its first model on this new architecture.
What is this new MG plug-in hybrid?
The upcoming plug-in hybrid SUV will likely be called MG Hector Hawk, derived from the Wuling Starlight 560. The SUV is expected to measure around 4,745 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,755 mm in height, with a wheelbase of about 2,810 mm, placing it in the mid-size SUV segment similar to the current Hector.
Inside, the plug-in hybrid Hector-based SUV is expected to feature:
- A large touchscreen infotainment system (around 12.8 inches)
- Digital instrument cluster (about 8.8 inches)
- Level 2 ADAS driver assistance features
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Automatic climate control
- Cruise control
- Premium upholstery
These features align with the technology seen on the latest MG Hector sold in India, which offers a large infotainment screen, connected car features, and Level 2 ADAS on higher variants.
Powertrain and performance
The new plug-in hybrid SUV will use:
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
- A high-output electric motor
- A battery pack of about 20.5 kWh capacity
Combined system output is around 197 bhp and 239 Nm. The company claims 0–100 km/h acceleration in roughly 10 seconds and a top speed of about 170 km/h. With a full battery charge and a full petrol tank, the claimed combined driving range is up to 1,000 km.
New 7-seat electric SUV
The new 7-seat electric SUV will feature a 69 kWh battery pack and a 210 bhp electric motor, offering a range of approximately 600 km on a full charge. It will compete with models like Mahindra's XEV 9S and Kia's upcoming electric SUVs. The SUV will have a 2+3+2 seating layout and include features like LED lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, a premium cabin, multiple screens, and a panoramic sunroof.
Spy Shots and Additional Details
The MG Hector Hawk has been spied testing in an EV avatar, indicating a launch in August 2026. The spied model features rectangular LED headlights with LED daytime running lamps, a blanked-off grille, and a charging port on the left-rear fender, suggesting it was the EV version. The interior is expected to be similar to the Wuling Starlight 560, with a minimalist dashboard and two free-standing screens. The Hector Hawk EV could get a 69.2 kWh battery pack and a 201 hp front-axle-mounted electric motor, offering a CLTC-claimed range of 530 km.
Why this matters for Nepali buyers
JSW MG Motor operates in Nepal through an official distributor from the Golchha group, and MG already sells models such as the Hector and various EVs in the country. Although there is no formal announcement yet about bringing these new models to Nepal, mid-size SUVs and electrified vehicles are increasingly popular among Nepali buyers due to rising fuel prices and evolving tax policies on cleaner vehicles.
If launched here in the future, the plug-in hybrid Hector-based SUV would likely sit above the regular Hector in price, potentially in the Rs 60–80 lakh range in Nepal depending on final Indian prices, battery size, and duties. For Nepali customers, the model’s key attractions would be the ability to do most daily commuting on electric power if charged regularly, a long combined range for highway trips, and lower fuel consumption compared to a pure petrol SUV of similar size.
As of now, detailed variant-wise prices and exact Nepal launch plans have not been disclosed. Buyers interested in electrified SUVs should watch for further announcements from JSW MG Motor’s Nepal distributor in the coming months.
Current prices on Nepal AutoMart
- MG Hector price in Nepal: Rs 66.99 lakh – Rs 80.99 lakh ex-showroom, 8 variants
Writes on vehicle pricing, taxation and the Nepali auto market from ongoing tracking of distributor price lists. Editorial policy.
