MG has announced its latest plug-in hybrid electric SUV, called the S9 in the UK. The car is a seven-seater and marks MG’s first three-row plug-in hybrid electric vehicle globally. The car features a petrol engine and an electric motor to enable electric-only running as well as long-distance running capabilities. For Indian buyers who are observing the rapid expansion of electric SUVs in the country, MG’s S9 plug-in hybrid electric SUV marks its entry into the large family SUV space currently occupied by diesel-powered vehicles. The car is said to be placed higher up from existing MG SUVs and is likely to compete with cars such as the Skoda Kodiaq if launched in India. However, its launch in India has not been confirmed yet.
Also Read: MG Motor Introduces 5-5-5 Ownership Programme for Majestor SUV Ahead of Launch
Design Details
The MG S9 is the biggest SUV from the brand so far and has styling that is typical of a contemporary three-row family SUV. At the front, it has slim LED headlights, a large grille and vertically stacked air intakes that give it an evolutionary look.
The sides of the SUV have a long wheelbase, large alloy wheels as well as an upright roofline which are typical of an SUV that has been designed to accommodate passengers in the third row. It also has flush-type door handles and sharp edges, all of which give it a contemporary look. The rear end of the MG S9 has connected LED taillamps and a sculpted tailgate.
Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain
The major highlight of the MG S9 is its plug-in hybrid powertrain. The SUV runs on a petrol engine and an electric motor along with a battery pack. This allows the car to operate on electric power for a short distance.
Though the powertrain details are not yet confirmed, reports suggest that the car’s hybrid setup will deliver high power output along with better efficiency compared to other petrol-driven SUVs.
For running on electric power only, the car is meant to be driven in urban conditions to help save fuel and reduce emissions. For longer runs, the petrol engine will work in tandem with the electric motor.
Interior And Features
Inside, the S9 adopts a modern cabin layout with a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. The dashboard design appears minimal with limited physical controls and a focus on connected features.
The three-row layout allows seating for up to seven occupants. MG is expected to equip the SUV with features such as panoramic sunroof, wireless connectivity, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as well as multiple comfort-focused technologies depending on market specifications.
Also Read: MG Majestor SUV Variant Explainer – Difference Between 4X2 vs 4X4 Versions
Could The MG S9 Come To India?
MG has not officially confirmed an India launch for the S9. But the growing interest in electrified vehicles and the limited number of plug-in hybrid SUVs in the Indian market could make it a viable option.
If it gets introduced here then the S9 would likely sit above the existing MG lineup and compete with premium three-row SUVs while offering the added benefit of plug-in hybrid technology.
