MG Gloster luxury SUV launched in India: Highlights
Now, MG has officially launched Gloster SUV as its fourth offering here in little over a year since the company made its India debut. At ₹28.98 lakh (introductory, ex showroom), it has waged an open war on Edeavour from Ford and Toyota Fortuner.
Here are the highlights from the official launch of MG Gloster SUV here:
That's all we have from this launch event.
Do check out the first drive review of MG Gloster on HTAuto/Youtube.
And do stay tuned for the off-road review of Gloster as well.
Price war!
A more in-depth look at Gloster's pricing vs pricing of Endeavour and Fortuner right here.
How does the premium SUV segment now look?
Endeavour and Fortuner are likely to continue benefiting from their images but Gloster has made a massive debut for two reasons. Firstly, the car is imposing and offers a whole lot of creature comforts and safety features. Secondly, its introductory pricing is likely to compel a prospective buyer in this segment to head over to the MG showroom as well.
Then there is Gloster's off-road capabilities to boot.
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Massive potshot at established rivals
The pricing structure of the Gloster takes a massive - and direct - aim at Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner. Base Gloster under cuts base Endeavour by about a lakh while significantly under cutting the top variant.
Against Fortuner, the Gloster base is around ₹30,000 more expensive but around ₹1.50 lakh cheaper when the top variants are compared.
What is the price that MG Gloster SUV starts at?
MG Motor has launched the Gloster premium luxury SUV at starting price of ₹28.98 lakh which goes up to ₹35.38 lakh (introductory, ex showroom) for the top Savvy variant.
Customization wears crown
MG is also offering ₹50,000 within the cost of the SUV to help owners personalize their vehicles.
MG highlights Gloster's safety features to get the show started
It is easy to see just why because Gloster's major highlights are the plethora of cutting-edge safety features.
Official price reveal just a short while from now
Is the Gloster meant for you?
Whole price is always a crucial factor and as we wait for the cost structure of the vehicle, let's try to figure who the Gloster is meant for regardless of what MG prices it at.
If you are looking for a large and imposing SUV, Gloster makes a solid case. It is mammoth and the proportions allow for a whole lot of space on the inside too. The car is loaded with tech features and the long list of safety features - some for the first-time ever in India - add to its credentials. So, the SUV itself will satiate the needs of a person looking at making a solid statement on the road and also someone who may want to take the road less traveled ocasionally.
Assuming Gloster is priced close to some rivals from the established brands in the luxury segment, those who may want to go for a BMW, for instance, may still opt for a BMW. For MG to truly make a mark in this segment, there is a need to work on brand value - not that it is low, just not in the same league as the Germans, as much as it has on this SUV itself.
Tech highlights
MG likes to load its cars with the latest technology for a connected drive and Gloster, therefore, makes use of the company's latest i-Smart 2.0 AI assistance technology with 3D maps and new apps.
Check out HT Auto's first drive review of MG Gloster:
How big is the Gloster?
Gloster measures 5,005mm in length, 1,932mm in width, is 1,875mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,950mm.
Drive modes on offer
Gloster offers seven drive modes. Well, two real drive modes and four terrain modes.
So, one can get Sport and Eco mode and in addition to this, may make use of Snow, Sand, Rock or Mud for more more control on rugged terrain.
Take it beyond the 'normal'
MG says on-demand Four-Wheel Drive that extends multiple driving modes. An Intelligent All-Terrain System seeks to provide enhanced control during off-roading.
I put the claim to the test just last evening and while embargo-related restrictions mean I can't share opinions, here's a sneak peak into how the SUV was frolicking around:
Gloster will be India's first Level 1 autonomous SUV. What does it mean?
MG Gloster comes with first-in-segment Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). The features incorporated include daptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Automatic Parking Assist, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).
Riveting rivalry on the cards?
MG Motor is projecting the Gloster SUV in the premium luxury category, where it is likely take on some of the BMW, Mercedes cars as well as Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour or Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
Gloster and the gang
Gloster will look at replicating the success that Hector, MG's debut product in India, has had over the last year or so. While the two offerings are in completely different segments and, therefore, the targets and expectations would be different, Gloster will look perhaps at grabbing the limelight.
