Updates for July 21: Launch of MG M9 EV, Critique of Mercedes-Benz GLS 450d AMG Line, Acceptance of Kia Carens Clavis EV bookings, and other news highlights...
The British automaker MG Motor has entered the Indian market with a new offering, the MG M9 EV. This luxury electric MPV will be sold through the premium retail network alongside the MG Cyberster.
The SUV segment in India has seen significant evolution over the last decade, and the MG M9 EV is poised to make its mark. With a single front motor delivering 242-245 BHP and 350 Nm torque, powered by a 90 kWh NMC lithium-ion battery, the M9 EV promises a range of about 500-548 km per charge. It supports both 11 kW AC charging (8.5-10 hours full charge) and fast DC charging, offering a 30% to 80% charge in approximately 30-90 minutes.
The M9 EV boasts a comfortable, smooth ride, aided by three regen braking modes and three driving modes. It also features a large footprint but a manageable turning radius, thanks to a 360-degree camera and a segment-first digital IRVM for improved visibility.
In terms of interior features, the M9 EV offers heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row seats with fold-out ottomans, targeting the premium chauffeur-driven and family segment. Safety is comprehensive, with seven airbags, ABS, ESP, TPMS, adaptive cruise control, and a full suite of ADAS features.
Priced at around ₹69.9 lakh (ex-showroom), the M9 EV directly competes with the Kia Carnival and Toyota Vellfire in the luxury MPV segment. Here's a comparison of the three:
| Feature | MG M9 EV | Kia Carnival | Toyota Vellfire | |-------------------------|----------------------------------|---------------------------------|------------------------------| | Powertrain | Single front motor, ~242-245 BHP, 350 Nm torque, 90 kWh NMC battery | Traditional ICE / Hybrid (electric variant limited or forthcoming) | Traditional ICE / Hybrid; fully electric variant not mainstream as of 2025 | | Electric Range | ~500-548 km (electric) | Varies - mainly ICE/hybrid | Varies - mainly ICE/hybrid | | Charging | AC 11 kW (8.5-10 hrs), DC fast charging | Not applicable for ICE; electric version charging TBD | Not applicable for ICE; electric version charging TBD | | Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | Under 10 seconds | ~ 9-12 seconds (ICE variants) | ~ 10 seconds (ICE variants) | | Interior Luxury Features | Heated, ventilated, massage seats; fold-out ottomans | Premium interiors but less focused on EV tech | Premium interiors; Vellfire known for luxury | | Safety Features | 7 airbags, ABS, ESP, TPMS, full ADAS suite | Strong safety with airbags, ABS, some ADAS | Strong safety features, ADAS in higher trims | | Price (India) | ₹69.9 lakh (ex-showroom) | ₹28-40 lakh (approx., gasoline/diesel; electric price TBD) | ₹75+ lakh (approx., petrol/hybrid) | | Unique Selling Points | Fully electric with long range, luxury electric MPV with advanced tech | Established luxury MPV with ICE/hybrid | Ultra-luxury MPV with premium comfort |
The MG M9 EV stands out as a fully electric luxury MPV with strong powertrain specs, high range, and modern tech features aimed at the premium segment. The Kia Carnival and Toyota Vellfire are proven luxury MPVs, traditionally powered by ICE or hybrids, with the Vellfire particularly renowned for ultra-luxurious interiors but without a widely available full electric version as of now. Thus, for buyers prioritizing a luxury electric MPV, the MG M9 EV represents a fresh and advanced option in the market.
Deliveries of the MG M9 EV will commence from August 10, marking the launch of the MG Select range in India. Meanwhile, the Kia Carens Clavis EV, an all-electric version of the Carens Clavis, will start bookings on July 22, 2025, at a booking amount of ₹25,000.
[1] MG M9 EV: Features, Specifications, Price, and Launch Date
[2] MG M9 EV: A New Luxury Electric MPV in Town
[3] MG M9 EV: Comprehensive Review and Test Drive
[4] MG M9 EV vs Kia Carnival vs Toyota Vellfire: A Detailed Comparison
- The British automaker MG Motor's new entrant in the Indian market, the MG M9 EV, is not only a luxury electric MPV but also a high-performance vehicle, boasting a powerful single front motor and a long electric range of about 500-548 km per charge.
- As the Indian transportation sector moves towards electric vehicles, the MG M9 EV provides an advanced option for buyers seeking a premium lifestyle and luxury in their automotive choices, with an array of modern tech features such as a heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row seat setup.
- In the competitive landscape of the Indian luxury MPV segment, the MG M9 EV offers compelling benefits over traditional ICE and hybrid vehicles, such as the Kia Carnival and Toyota Vellfire, with its special focus on electric powertrains and state-of-the-art safety and comfort features.
