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The MG Windsor EV Pro: A Bigger, Better Electric Family Car
India’s best-selling electric vehicle just got an upgrade. The MG Windsor EV, already a familiar sight on Indian roads, has received a significant boost with the launch of the new Pro version. This isn't just a minor facelift; we're talking a larger battery, added features, and a fresh coat of paint – literally. Let's dive into what makes the Windsor EV Pro stand out.
Design and Engineering
The Windsor EV Pro retains the distinctive MPV-esque silhouette that sets it apart from the SUV crowd. Its substantial presence is enhanced by a generous 186mm ground clearance, a wide body, and stylish 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels – a key differentiator from the standard model. MG has also introduced three new colors: Celadon Blue, Aurora Silver, and the eye-catching Glaze Red shown here. Aside from the wheels and new badging on the tailgate indicating ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), the exterior remains largely unchanged.
Interior Space and Comfort
Where the Windsor EV truly shines is its interior. The "born-electric" architecture maximizes space, offering surprisingly roomy cabin space for a sub-4.3-meter vehicle. The rear seats are a highlight, providing ample legroom and shoulder room for three adults. A flat floor adds to the comfort of the middle passenger, and the well-padded, reclining seats are so comfortable they could appeal to those looking for a chauffeur-driven experience.
The Pro model features a stylish dual-tone ivory-on-black interior (the standard model is all-black), adding a touch of premium feel. However, the lighter upholstery requires more diligent cleaning. While the rear seats are supremely comfortable, the front seats feel a bit firmer.
The impressive 15.6-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, complemented by a smaller digital instrument cluster. However, the touchscreen's interface feels somewhat cluttered, requiring too much menu navigation, which can be distracting while driving.
- Pros: Spacious cabin, comfortable rear seats, large touchscreen.
- Cons: Less comfortable front seats, cluttered touchscreen interface.
Features and Safety
The Windsor EV Pro comes fully loaded. In addition to the large touchscreen and digital dials, features include LED headlights, a powered driver's seat, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a premium Infinity sound system, and connected car technology. The Pro model adds a powered tailgate, vehicle-to-load (V2L), and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) charging capabilities.
Safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, an electronic parking brake, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and an ADAS suite with intelligent light assist, lane keep assist, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While the ADAS features are a welcome addition, our test drive revealed some inconsistencies in their responsiveness.
- Pros: Extensive features, comprehensive safety suite.
- Cons: Inconsistent ADAS performance, lack of a rear wiper.
Performance and Range
The Windsor EV Pro uses the same 136hp, 200Nm front motor as the standard model. Performance is described as linear and relaxing. Four drive modes (Normal, Eco, Eco+, Sport) offer different power delivery characteristics, though the default "Normal" mode is recommended. While the motor is quiet, road, wind, and suspension noises are noticeable at higher speeds.
The significant upgrade is the 52.9kWh battery (up from 38kWh), resulting in a claimed ARAI range of 449km (compared to 332km for the standard model). Our test drive suggested that the real-world range will likely exceed 400km, mirroring the efficiency of the standard model.
| Feature | Windsor EV Pro | Standard Windsor EV |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity (kWh) | 52.9 | 38 |
| Claimed Range (km) | 449 | 332 |
| Motor Power (hp) | 136 | 136 |
| Torque (Nm) | 200 | 200 |
Price and Verdict
While the initial launch price was tempting, the ex-showroom price has since increased to Rs 18.1 lakh (Rs 2.1 lakh more than the standard model). The extra cost brings substantial improvements in range and features. For those needing an electric car suitable for longer journeys, the Windsor EV Pro is a strong contender. While the user interface and ADAS calibration could use some refinement, the spacious cabin, comfortable ride (for the most part), and impressive feature list make it a very likeable car. The Windsor EV Pro improves upon an already excellent electric vehicle, making it even easier to recommend.
