MG Motor has launched its latest all-electric crossover, the MG Windsor EV , in India with an introductory price starting at Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). This new offering aims to make electric mobility more accessible while retaining a strong set of features across its variants. Available in three trims: Excite, Exclusive, and Essence , the Windsor EV offers a range of amenities for different price points. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the base-spec Excite variant and explore what it brings to the table.
A Stylish Front with Premium Touches
From the outside, the Excite variant of the Windsor EV looks nearly identical to its top-spec counterparts, ensuring that buyers at the entry level don’t miss out on the brand’s signature design language. The front fascia is adorned with connected LED DRLs that run across the front, paired with LED projector headlights for superior visibility. The illuminated MG logo adds to the futuristic appeal, making the Windsor EV stand out in a crowd. The bumper design is sleek, though the Excite variant forgoes the chrome-finished skid plate seen in higher trims.
Subtle Differences in the Side Profile
On the side, the Excite variant does come with some cost-cutting measures when compared to the higher-end Exclusive and Essence trims. Chrome finishes on the window beltline are absent, but the flush-style door handles —a premium feature usually reserved for higher variants—are present, giving the vehicle a sophisticated appearance. The charging flap is smartly integrated into the fender, maintaining the uniformity of the Windsor’s design across all its variants.
Elegant Rear Design
The rear design of the MG Windsor EV Excite variant mirrors the elegance of its pricier siblings. It features connected LED tail lights , offering an upscale look that is in sync with modern design trends in electric vehicles. While the black skid plate on the bumper is a standard feature across the lineup, the Excite variant lacks the fancier detailing found in higher trims, keeping things simple yet stylish.
Interior
Step inside the Excite variant , and you'll be greeted by an all-black cabin accented with golden inserts that give it a dash of flair. The dashboard and steering wheel do not come with the leatherette finish available in the more expensive variants, but the use of quality plastics and thoughtful design still make the interior feel premium. The fabric-upholstered seats are comfortable, with the rear seats capable of reclining up to 135 degrees , offering flexibility and comfort for rear passengers. A 60:40 split folding option for the rear seats adds practicality for those needing more cargo space.
The Excite variant doesn’t come with a panoramic glass roof , a feature reserved for the top variants, but it does include rear AC vents to ensure comfort for all passengers.
Tech and Safety Features
Despite being the base variant, the Excite trim of the Windsor EV is generously equipped. It comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay , making smartphone connectivity a breeze. A 6-speaker sound system delivers decent audio quality, while a 7-inch digital driver’s display provides essential information like speed and battery status.
In terms of safety, MG hasn’t compromised. The Excite variant comes with a robust safety kit that includes 6 airbags , electronic stability control (ESC) , an electronic parking brake with auto-hold , all four disc brakes , and rear parking sensors . Additional features like automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers enhance convenience, especially during unpredictable weather conditions.
Powertrain & Range
Under the hood, the MG Windsor EV Excite is powered by a 38 kWh battery pack that drives a 136 PS electric motor, delivering 200 Nm of torque . This setup provides adequate performance for daily city driving and light highway usage. The Excite variant also offers multiple charging options, ensuring convenience based on availability and time constraints:
3.3 kW AC Charger: Takes 13.8 hours for a full charge.
7.4 kW AC Fast Charger: Takes around 6.5 hours for a full charge.
50 kW DC Fast Charger: Charges the battery to 80% in just 55 minutes .
MG also offers a Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program, allowing customers to pay for the battery based on their usage, making ownership more flexible and cost-effective.
Rivals
At its price point, the MG Windsor EV competes with electric crossovers like the Tata Nexon EV and the Mahindra XUV400 EV , as well as the Tata Punch EV . With its feature-rich offerings and the backing of MG's established presence in India, the Windsor EV Excite provides a compelling option for those looking to make the switch to electric mobility without compromising on features or style.
Conclusion
The MG Windsor EV Excite variant brings a lot to the table despite being the entry-level offering. With its premium design, practical features, and solid safety package, it’s well-suited for urban dwellers looking for an affordable and efficient electric vehicle. While it does make some compromises in terms of luxury features, the core offering remains strong, making it a worthy consideration in India’s growing EV market.
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