MG Motor has officially launched its first MG Select showroom in Thane, Maharashtra, setting the tone for what the brand calls an ‘affordable luxury’ experience. Targeting a premium customer base, the Select network is designed to retail high-end products with a focus on new energy mobility. While initial reports suggested a BEV-only direction, MG has now confirmed it is adopting a broader multi-powertrain strategy.
This marks a shift in MG’s product and investment roadmap, particularly in India’s evolving automotive market, where electrification is important—but not the only path forward.
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Multi Powertrain
MG’s premium Select chain will include not just battery electric vehicles (BEVs), but also hybrids and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). This was confirmed by Anurag Mehrotra, MD of JSW MG Motor, during the opening of the Thane outlet. According to Mehrotra, every powertrain option must have a strong business case behind it before getting the green light for investment and localization.
So, while electric will remain core to the MG Select lineup, the company is keeping its options open—especially as demand for EVs fluctuates globally.
BEV Slowdown
A key reason behind MG’s open approach is the global dip in BEV adoption. Several automakers, including premium names like Mercedes-Benz and Ford, have delayed or scaled down their electric-only plans due to slowing consumer uptake and infrastructure challenges.
MG’s move seems well-timed. In markets like India, where the EV ecosystem is still developing, a flexible strategy allows the brand to offer customers a choice depending on their needs, location, and charging accessibility.
First Models
The first two products that will be sold under the Select badge are the M9 luxury electric MPV and the Cyberster electric roadster.
- M9 MPV: This is MG’s shot at the luxury MPV segment, where it will compete with the likes of Toyota Vellfire and Kia Carnival. It’s positioned as a comfort-first vehicle, particularly for rear-seat passengers. In fact, MG has already rolled out a dedicated rear-seat experience review for the M9 on its website.
- Cyberster: A CBU (completely built unit), this sporty EV convertible is designed to be a halo model. While niche, it’s expected to build aspiration around the MG brand and create buzz in the enthusiast community.
Untapped Segments
MG believes both the M9 and Cyberster address gaps in the current Indian market. The M9’s electric powertrain combined with MPV practicality gives it a unique advantage, while the Cyberster is one of the few EV convertibles targeting style-focused buyers.
Together, they mark MG’s entry into segments where there is little direct competition, at least in the all-electric space.
Future Lineup
MG has hinted at expanding the Select portfolio with a range of hybrid and PHEV models from its global lineup. While not confirmed for India yet, the following models are strong candidates based on global availability:
| Model | Type | Segment |
|---|---|---|
| MG4 | BEV | Compact Hatchback |
| MG S5 | PHEV | Compact SUV |
| MG ZS | BEV / PHEV | Mid-size SUV |
| MG HS | PHEV | Premium SUV |
| MG3 | Hybrid | City Hatchback |
Most of these vehicles fall within the SUV or SUV-inspired category, signaling MG’s understanding of Indian buyers’ preference for elevated, feature-rich vehicles.
What to Expect
As MG rolls out more Select showrooms across India, the brand will likely continue pushing its multi-powertrain philosophy. Whether you’re looking for a pure EV or a plug-in hybrid that offers some electric driving without full dependency on charging networks, MG is preparing to meet that demand.
The Thane showroom is just the beginning. Expect more outlets to pop up in metro cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, where premium EV buyers are more concentrated.
FAQs
Is MG Select only for EVs?
No, MG Select will include EVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids.
What models will MG sell under Select?
The M9 MPV and Cyberster roadster will be the first models.
Why is MG shifting to multi-powertrain?
To address slower BEV adoption and offer flexible options.
Will MG bring hybrids to India?
Yes, MG plans to explore hybrids and PHEVs from its global lineup.
Where is the first MG Select showroom?
It is located in Thane, Maharashtra.
