MG Motor's first car for India to launch with two BSVI-compliant engines - Report

Autocar India reports that the MG-badged Baojun 530, which will become the first offering from MG Motor India, will launch with two BSVI-compliant engine options. This is in line with a previous report that stated that the SUV will offer turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.

Reportedly, Mr Rajeev Chaba, President and Managing Director, MG Motor India has said that after some deliberation, his company has decided to launch the SUV with BSVI-compliant engines instead of introducing the new model with BSIV-compliant motors and later upgrading the power-plants for BSVI compliance once the stricter emission norms come into effect in 2020.

While the original Baojun 530 has been spotted testing on the Indian soil, the MG-branded version will not be entirely like its Chinese sibling. MG will make several superficial changes in the form of a new front grille, new bumpers, revised lights, and new badges. Furthermore, the interior of the first MG SUV for India will be a tad more premium than that of its donor car. Spy images have revealed that the cabin will have many bits borrowed from the bigger Baojun 560.

The MG-badged Baojun 530 will likely measure 4.7-metres in length, 1.83-metre in width, and 1.76-metre in height. The Chinese-spec SUV is available in two petrol variants - a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit that outputs 110 kW (150 PS) and 230 Nm, and a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated unit that outputs 101 kW (137 PS) and 186 Nm of torque. The Indian version will be propelled by the FCA-sourced 2.0-litre MultiJet II diesel engine and a different 1.5-litre turbocharged gasoline motor that outputs 170 PS and 250 Nm. It will come mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission.

The new model will be produced at the company's Halol-based facility in  Gujarat. This plant was earlier owned by GM and was responsible for the production of the Cruze and the Tavera.

Also See: MG eRX5 (Roewe ERX5) pure electric SUV showcased at Delhi's Move Summit 2018

The MG-badged Baojun 530 is expected to launch with a sub-INR 20 lakh price tag. MG's first model for India will rival the likes of Jeep Compass. The company should be able to price the new model competitively due to the high level of localisation.

Source: autocarindia.com