What happens when a massive 5.2-meter electric vehicle enters India’s luxury MPV market?
The MG M9 is a big deal as India’s first electric luxury MPV. It’s huge, measuring over 5.2 meters long and nearly 1.8 meters tall. JSW MG Motor India introduces it through MG Select, their premium brand channel.
The M9 packs a punch with 242 BHP and 350 Nm of torque from its single motor. It’s powered by a big 90kWh battery pack. Plus, it’s safe, earning a 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
This luxury MPV review pits the M9 against big names like the Kia Carnival. It’s a more affordable choice than the Toyota Vellfire or Lexus LM. Prices are expected to be between ₹80-100 lakh ex-showroom.
The MG M9 First Impressions show a mix of electric innovation and practical luxury. This electric vehicle analysis looks at its good points and areas for improvement in India’s newest premium MPV.
Key Takeaways
- India’s first electric luxury MPV measures over 5.2 meters long
- Single-motor setup produces 242 BHP with 90kWh battery pack
- Achieved 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating
- Launched through MG Select luxury brand channel
- Competes with Kia Carnival in the premium MPV segment
- Expected pricing between ₹80-100 lakh ex-showroom
- Offers alternative to Toyota Vellfire and Lexus LM
Design and Aesthetics: A Modern Look
The MG M9 stands out with its sleek MPV design. It combines classic elements in a modern way. The exterior design, from the bold front to the elegant rear, shows off a high-end look.
This design aims to match the top MPVs in the market. It’s all about style and sophistication.
Bold Exterior Design
The M9’s front has sleek LED lights and a big trapezoidal grille. Chrome adds a touch of luxury to the doors, windows, and lower parts. Its design is inspired by successful models, making it both familiar and unique.
- Metal Black
- Pearl Lustre White
- Mystic Grey
- Optional dual-tone paint schemes
Sleek Interior Styling
Inside, the M9 is all about luxury. Soft-touch surfaces cover the dashboard and doors. Leather, suede, and chamois add to the opulence.
There are also metal accents that add a touch of elegance. The interior is designed to be both modern and welcoming.
Highlights include a big 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch virtual cluster. Customizable ambient lighting adds to the ambiance. The design focuses on simplicity and space, making the interior feel both modern and inviting.
Performance Overview: What to Expect
The MG M9 has electric motor performance that’s both powerful and efficient. It’s made for family use, not for racing. It offers smooth starts and a comfy ride, perfect for daily drives and long trips.
Engine Specifications
The M9 has a front electric motor that’s impressive for its price. Its single motor design keeps costs down but provides enough power. The big battery pack also means you can go longer without needing to charge.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Single Electric Motor |
| Power Output | 245 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm |
| Drive Configuration | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Battery Capacity | 90 kWh |
| Driving Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport |
Driving Experience
Driving the M9 is surprisingly fun, despite its size. The steering is light, making it easy to park and turn. The regenerative braking system helps save on brake pads and boosts efficiency.
While it doesn’t have pistol features like some sports EVs, the Normal mode is great for everyday driving. Sport mode adds extra power when you need it, but most people will stick with Normal.
Technology Features: Staying Connected
The MG M9 is packed with modern tech to keep drivers and passengers entertained. It has seven screens that turn the car into a digital wonderland. This makes driving feel like a journey into the future.
Infotainment System
The M9’s main tech feature is a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It controls everything in the car. But, it doesn’t have haptic feedback, so drivers must look at the screen to confirm settings.
Changing settings like air conditioning can be a distraction. It takes you away from the road.
The car’s sound system is top-notch, with a JBL system and 12 speakers. It makes music sound clear everywhere in the car. There’s also wireless charging and connected car tech for updates and monitoring.
Safety Technologies
The M9 got a 5-star Euro NCAP rating for its safety. It has Level 2 ADAS, which helps with semi-autonomous driving.
| Safety Feature | Function |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Maintains safe following distance automatically |
| Lane Departure Warning | Alerts when vehicle drifts from lane |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Detects vehicles in adjacent lanes |
| 360-Degree Camera | Provides complete view around vehicle |
| Driver Fatigue Monitoring | Tracks alertness and suggests breaks |
Seven airbags and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) keep everyone safe. The car also talks to other vehicles, sharing traffic info. This makes the roads safer for everyone.
Comfort and Space: Room for Everyone
The MG M9 offers interior space that leads in luxury MPVs. It’s designed with comfort in mind, using premium materials. This makes long trips better for everyone.
Seating Capacity and Configuration
The M9’s second-row captain’s chairs are a standout. They adjust with power and have memory, heating, ventilation, and eight massage modes. The fold-out ottoman seats and boss mode offer extra legroom, making travel feel first-class.
Touchscreens on the armrests let passengers control their seats easily. The third row is surprisingly spacious, with charging ports and AC vents. It’s as roomy as some SUVs, like the Thar Roxx.
Cargo Space
The M9’s storage is flexible, a major plus. Seats slide and fold for more room. The low loading lip helps with heavy bags. But, space is limited with all seats in use.
Fuel Efficiency: Is It Worth It?
The MG M9’s EV efficiency is a topic of debate for those in India. The maker boasts of high numbers, but real-world tests show some key points. These include actual range and charging abilities that affect daily use.
Fuel Economy Ratings
MG says the M9 can go over 530 kilometers on one charge. The WLTP certified range is about 430 kilometers. But, tests show a big difference between what’s promised and what happens in real life.
Drivers saw a huge drop in range. Starting with 418 kilometers, driving 100 kilometers left the display at 252 kilometers. This shows the real range is closer to 350 kilometers.
Charging the M9 is easy with an 11kW home charger. It takes 10 hours to fully charge from empty. DC fast charging is faster, topping off 30-80% in just 30 minutes. This makes the M9 good for daily trips but planning is needed for longer drives.
Comparisons to Competitors
The M9’s range analysis shows it trails behind some rivals. The Hyundai Kona Electric goes 452 km WLTP, and the Tata Nexon EV Max claims 437 km. Despite this, the M9 is great for the environment and saves money on fuel.
Its green benefits attract eco-friendly buyers. Yet, the limited range might worry those who need to travel long distances often.
Handling and Ride Quality: Smooth or Bumpy?
The MG M9 has a mixed ride on Indian roads. Its suspension works well on smooth highways but not on rough roads. It balances luxury and practicality in its driving dynamics.
Suspension and Stability
The M9’s suspension gives different results on different roads. At low speeds, it feels a bit bumpy on uneven roads. Potholes and speed breakers on Indian streets are noticeable.
But, on well-paved roads, it’s smoother. The suspension improves at higher speeds. The plush seats make minor road bumps feel less harsh, making long drives more enjoyable.
Noise Levels Inside the Cabin
The M9 excels in keeping the cabin quiet. It’s very quiet even at high speeds. The interior is well-insulated, keeping road and wind noises out.
- Electric powertrain eliminates engine noise completely
- Double-glazed windows reduce outside sound intrusion
- Premium door seals block tire and suspension sounds
- Second-row passengers enjoy near-silent travel
This quietness makes the M9 a peaceful place. It’s great for talking or listening to music. It’s a top choice for those who value comfort.
Pricing and Value: What’s the Deal?
The MG M9 has a unique approach to pricing. It offers only one fully-loaded model. This means no need to choose between different trim levels. Every premium feature comes as standard.
Base Model vs. Upgrades
The MG M9 is different from others with just one model. It has everything you need, like dual sunroofs and a top-notch JBL audio system. You also get three-zone climate control and heated outside mirrors.
It even comes with self-sealing tires and a full ADAS safety suite. So, you don’t need to worry about extra upgrades.
The MG M9’s price is expected to be between ₹80-100 lakh ex-showroom in India. This makes it a good choice compared to the Kia Carnival. It’s also more affordable than the Toyota Vellfire or Lexus LM.
Warranty and Ownership Costs
The MG M9 is only available at JSW MG Motor India’s luxury Select showrooms. It’s important to check if there’s a showroom near you before buying. People seem to like the easy buying process, but some worry about finding dealerships in smaller cities.
| Feature | MG M9 | Kia Carnival |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | ₹80-100 lakh | ₹63-69 lakh |
| Variants | Single (Fully-loaded) | Multiple trim levels |
| Standard Features | All premium features included | Varies by trim |
Eco-Friendly Options: Sustainability Matters
The MG M9 is a big step in luxury cars, being India’s first electric luxury MPV. It shows a big move towards green cars in the high-end market. By not using traditional fuel, MG is serious about cutting down on pollution.
Electric-Only Power
The M9 only uses electricity, thanks to a strong 90kWh battery. This gives big electric vehicle benefits like quiet running and quick power. Unlike some cars, the M9 is fully electric, not just a hybrid.
The car can also charge other devices, like camping gear or tools. This makes it handy for outdoor use. It’s a step towards being more eco-friendly by cutting down on the need for extra power sources.
Interior Materials and Build
Inside, the M9 has top-notch leather, suede, and chamois. These materials add to the luxury feel. But, it’s not clear if they are eco-friendly. Maybe in the future, MG could use recycled or plant-based materials to make it even greener.
Being electric means no emissions from the tailpipe. For those who care about the environment in India’s luxury car market, this is a big plus. It lets them enjoy luxury without harming the planet.
Final Thoughts: Our Overall Impression
The MG M9 is a big deal as India’s first electric luxury MPV. It’s a top-notch vehicle that sets new standards in comfort and tech. MG Motor has made something special for India with the M9.
It combines luxury and electric power in a way that’s never been seen before. This makes it a game-changer in the MPV world.
Pros of the MG M9
The M9’s second row is its best feature. It offers lots of room for adults, making long trips comfy. It also comes with lots of fancy features that are rare at this price.
Driving it is smooth and quiet, thanks to its electric power. Plus, it’s great for your wallet because it’s so efficient. It’s also super safe, with lots of airbags and tech to help you stay safe on the road.
Areas for Improvement
There are a few things that could be better. The ride can be a bit rough on India’s bumpy roads. The touchscreen is too busy with too many options, making it hard to use while driving.
The car’s range isn’t as long as we hoped, at about 350 kilometers. It’s also big, which can make it hard to park in tight spots. When all seats are used, the trunk space gets small.
Adding haptic feedback to the touchscreens would make them easier to use on the go.
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