Key highlights
- MG Hector Hawk EV spotted testing in India
- Expected to get a 69.2kWh battery with a claimed 530km range
- PHEV and EV versions are expected to launch in August 2026
MG’s next big SUV is getting closer to its Indian debut. The Hector Hawk EV, based on the Wuling Starlight 560, has been spotted testing in India ahead of its expected launch in August 2026.
This isn’t going to be just another electric SUV. MG is expected to offer the Hector Hawk in both EV and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) forms, giving buyers two very different ways to go electric.
The test mule seen recently appears to be the EV version. The biggest giveaway is the blanked-off front grille, while the SUV also gets rectangular LED headlights with DRLs positioned above and below them. A charging port can be seen on the left-rear fender.
530km range expected
The Hector Hawk EV is expected to use a 69.2kWh battery pack paired with a front-mounted electric motor. In the international Starlight 560, this setup produces 201 hp and 310 Nm, with a claimed 530km CLTC range.
The PHEV version is expected to use a 1.5-litre petrol engine and 20.5 kWh battery. The combined output could be around 195 hp and 230 Nm, while the claimed electric-only range is expected to be around 125 km.
MG is also expected to position the two versions differently. The PHEV will sit above the Hector, while the EV is likely to be positioned above the ZS EV.
Seven seats and plenty of tech
The Hector Hawk is expected to retain the Starlight 560’s seven-seat layout. The cabin could feature an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Other expected features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, automatic climate control and ADAS.
The Hector Hawk will have some serious competition when it arrives, including the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and Mahindra XEV 9S.
For MG, the interesting bit isn’t just another SUV. It is the combination of seven seats, an EV powertrain and a PHEV option. If MG gets the pricing right, the Hector Hawk could become one of the more interesting new SUVs of 2026.
Also read: Kia Syros EV vs Tata Nexon EV: Which one is better?
