Wuling Starlight 560 EV Spotted in India Ahead of MG Launch

The Wuling Starlight 560, expected to launch in India as an MG SUV, has been seen testing multiple times. The vehicle has been patented in India, along with several plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The latest sighting confirms the presence of an electric variant, identified by its closed-off grille.

Key Highlights

• Wuling Starlight 560 EV spotted testing in India with closed-off grille
• SUV offers turbo petrol, plug-in hybrid, and electric powertrain options
• Measures 4.75m long with 2.81m wheelbase and three-row seating
• Features include 12.8 inch infotainment and wireless connectivity
• MG may launch both EV and PHEV variants in Indian market

Dimensions and Exterior Features

The Starlight 560 measures 4.75 metres in length, 1.85 metres in width, and 1.75 metres in height. It has a wheelbase of 2.81 metres. These dimensions are close to the current Hector Plus, suggesting the Starlight 560 could serve as its replacement. The SUV features dual-tone alloy wheels, 215/55 section 18-inch tyres, and both front and rear skid plates.

Powertrain Options and Specifications

The Starlight 560 offers several powertrain choices. It is available with a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine producing 174.2bhp and 260Nm of torque with a 6-speed manual transmission. The same engine delivers 174.2bhp and 290Nm with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Only the CVT version includes a spare wheel.

Another option is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system. This setup generates 194.3bhp and 230Nm of torque, using a 20.5kWh Shenlian LFP battery. The fully electric version produces 134bhp and 200Nm of torque, matching the output of the Windsor EV Pro.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Starlight 560 features a 12.8-inch infotainment system with wireless connectivity. The SUV is expected to offer three rows of seating, positioning it above the Windsor EV Pro in the lineup.

Market Position and Launch Plans

The Starlight 560 EV is unlikely to replace the Windsor EV Pro, given the latter’s market success. Instead, it may be positioned as a higher-end, three-row offering. MG could also introduce a PHEV variant, aiming to establish an early presence in the mass-market plug-in hybrid segment. The recent test vehicle was an EV, but the company may launch both EV and PHEV options in India.