In an ambitious move, MG Motor India is gearing up to launch the Mifa 9 MPV in March 2025, as part of its new premium retail network, MG Select. This electric MPV, previously showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo, is expected to follow the Cyberster, MG’s upcoming luxury roadster, as the second model in this exclusive lineup.
With a likely price of around ₹65 lakh, the Mifa 9 aims to redefine luxury travel for Indian families and businesses looking for spacious, high-end electric options.
MG Select and New Energy Vehicles
MG Motor India’s MG Select retail network focuses on “New Energy Vehicles” (NEVs), combining luxury with sustainable mobility. By introducing the Mifa 9, MG is aiming at India’s growing niche market of premium electric vehicles.
Initially, the brand will cater to 12 major cities, carefully targeting urban areas where the demand for high-end electric vehicles has been steadily rising. This strategy aligns with the recent trend of luxury MPVs gaining traction in India, as shown by competitors like the Toyota Vellfire and Kia Carnival, which have carved out significant market shares.
Mifa 9: The Specifications and Features
The Mifa 9, originally launched as an all-electric vehicle, boasts a robust build and a spacious interior that sets it apart in the MPV segment. Stretching 5.2 meters in length, 2 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height, the Mifa 9 is larger than the Kia Carnival and even the Toyota Vellfire, providing plenty of room for seven or eight passengers.
Under the hood, the electric Mifa 9 is equipped with a 90kWh lithium battery that powers a front-mounted motor delivering 245 horsepower and 350Nm of torque. This setup provides the Mifa 9 with a claimed WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) range of up to 430 kilometers on a full charge, offering a practical range for longer city commutes and intercity trips.
Inside, the Mifa 9 is designed for maximum comfort and luxury. Passengers can enjoy powered, heated, and ventilated seats with a built-in massage feature. The vehicle also includes fold-out ottoman seats, dual sunroofs, powered rear-sliding doors, and rear entertainment screens, making it a strong contender for those who prioritize a premium travel experience.
Design and Style
The Mifa 9, though maintaining a traditional boxy MPV silhouette, showcases several striking design elements. Its front features a tall, upright stance with a full-width LED light bar that complements the headlamps encased in chrome, forming a distinctive “U” shape around the nose.
The side profile incorporates chrome accents around the windows and door sills, while the rear includes vertical drop-down tail lamps connected by a light bar and further chrome details on the bumper. This bold design language elevates the Mifa 9’s aesthetic appeal, making it a head-turner among MPVs.
Competing with Giants: Toyota Vellfire and Kia Carnival
In India’s premium MPV market, MG is directly targeting established players like Toyota’s Vellfire and Kia’s Carnival. The Vellfire has become popular among Indian customers for its luxury and spaciousness, with Toyota selling approximately 100 units each month.
Similarly, Kia’s Carnival has seen high demand, with 3,000 orders already in place and a production target of 300 units monthly. By introducing the Mifa 9, MG is entering a competitive segment but hopes to stand out through its emphasis on luxury, spaciousness, and eco-friendly electric power.
The Mifa 9 is marketed under the Maxus brand in China and the UK, while it carries the LDV badge in Australia. In India, MG Motor has chosen to retain the MG brand, building on its reputation and creating a unified brand experience under the MG Select network.
Local Assembly and Market Adaptation
MG Motor India is considering local assembly for the Mifa 9, a move that could potentially make the vehicle more accessible to Indian consumers. Gaurav Gupta, Chief Growth Officer at JSW MG Motor India, hinted in an earlier interview that assembling the Mifa 9 locally is an efficient strategy, even for high-end models under MG Select.
Local assembly could also help reduce costs, making the Mifa 9 a viable choice for Indian buyers looking for premium electric options with added brand value.
The Broader Vision: Cyberster and Mifa 9 Together
Launching alongside the Mifa 9 is the Cyberster, an all-electric roadster from MG that aims to captivate a different demographic: high-end car enthusiasts looking for a stylish, performance-driven ride.
While the Cyberster and Mifa 9 serve vastly different customer needs, MG’s goal is to showcase a broad spectrum of vehicles under the same brand umbrella, highlighting the diversity of MG Select’s offerings.
The Cyberster’s sporty appeal complements the Mifa 9’s family-oriented luxury, allowing MG to appeal to both individual and family-oriented luxury vehicle buyers.
Why the Mifa 9 Matters?
The Mifa 9’s launch in India represents more than just a new vehicle, it’s a strategic move by MG Motor to test the limits of India’s luxury vehicle market. MG is curious to see if Indian buyers are willing to invest in a high-end MPV at this price point.
Beyond the commercial aspect, this launch will serve as a litmus test for MG’s positioning as a provider of both luxury and sustainable transport. If successful, the Mifa 9 could pave the way for future electric MPV offerings in India.
To conclude, as MG Motor India prepares for the Mifa 9’s entry into the Indian market, it’s clear that the brand is aiming to carve out a unique space for premium electric MPVs. Positioned alongside the Cyberster, the Mifa 9 not only broadens MG’s appeal but also highlights its commitment to luxury and sustainability.
With its premium features, ample space, and eco-friendly credentials, the Mifa 9 has the potential to set a new standard in India’s luxury MPV segment. March 2025 could mark the beginning of a new chapter for MG, and the Mifa 9 may well become a key player in India's evolving automotive landscape.
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