When Toyota unveiled the Innova Hycross, it opened up a segment that many didn’t know existed. The Hycross combines practicality, luxury and fuel efficiency, and its competition is still playing catch-up. However, after looking at the success of the Hycross, one automaker seems to have found the answer. Here are all the details you should know.
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MG Darion – What To Expect?
JSW has been on a roll lately as it plans to commence its own brand. But it hasn’t forgotten about its partner company, Morris Garages, yet. While we know it will launch an XUV7XO rival and a premium EV SUV this year, it is now also working on an MPV called the Darion.
The Darion is sold under the Wuling brand in the Chinese market. MG usually brings rebadged Wuling models to India. The Darion is not a small car, as it is a 4.9-metre-long MPV, and with its sliding doors, it seems more like a Carnival competitor. So why are we talking about the Innova?
Let’s not forget that when the Carnival was first launched, it was priced aggressively at around Rs 25-35 lakh, which isn’t very far off from the Innova Crysta pricing back then. Additionally, the Innova Hycross hybrid is more expensive than the Crysta. So if MG are aggressive with the pricing, we could see it compete with the Innova Hycross. And when you look at the powertrain options, you will understand why we are making this comparison.
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Powertrain
MG has moved beyond conventional petrol/diesel engines and now prioritises hybrids and EVs. In global markets, it is offered with hybrid and electric powertrains and the same is expected in the Indian market. The plug-in hybrid is powered by a 1.5-litre NA petrol engine and is mated to a 20.5kWh pack. This combination produces 195bhp & 230Nm. A similiar powertrain is expected with the upcoming MG Starlight 560 SUV.
Furthermore, the EV version is offered with a 69.2kWh battery pack that can go up to 540km on a single charge. The EV will be relatively expensive when compared to the Kia Carens Clavis EV and the Vinfast VF MPV7.
MG Darion – Features
Premium interiors and long feature lists are MG’s USPs. And that will continue with the Darion as the global spec gets –
- 12.8-inch infotainment screen
- Level 2 ADAS
- 6-airbags
- 360-degree camera
- Wireless charging
- Electric tailgate
- 8.8-inch driver’s display
- 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat
- Electric 2nd row seat adjustment
- Leatherette seats
- Captain seats with a ventilation function
- 2+2+3 seating layout
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Expected Pricing & Launch
We expect both the EV and PHEV to be priced around the Rs 30-40 lakh segment. We have seen that Indians appreciate premium vans and MPVs, as seen with the Carnival, so if MG plays its cards right, the Darion could be a success.
MG has a packed 2026 with the Starlight 560 and MG IM6. This means that we have to wait longer for the Darion. Industry sources suggest that we could see it on Indian roads by mid-2027.
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Hi, I’m Ravindra Meena , a bike and automobile enthusiast. I share honest reviews, mileage tests, and latest updates about bikes, cars, and EVs to help you make the right choice. Stay connected for real-world insights and trending auto news! 🏍️🚗