MG unveils new Marvel R electric SUV

Simran Rastogi Updated: March 23, 2021, 12:09 PM IST

MG Motor has two new electric vehicles joining the ranks in Europe - the new MG Marvel R electric SUV, and the MG5 Electric, the world's first electric station wagon. MG's electrified range otherwise consists of the MG ZS EV, as also sold in India, and the MG EHS plug-in hybrid. The MG Marvel R and MG Electric are said to be the firm's second-generation of battery electric vehicles, and as such pack improved performance, longer driving range, and shorter charging times, apart from showing off MG's new Evolution Design language.

The Marvel R, the successor to the Marvel X with updated styling inside and out, will be available in an AWD triple-electric motor setup, with one motor on the front axle and two at the rear, and a RWD configuration with dual-electric motors. Power figures stand at 288PS/665Nm, with a 0-100kmph run in just 4.9s, and a top speed of 200kmph, likely for the AWD model.

Over 400km (WLTP) of driving range is achievable, though the battery size isn't confirmed yet. An onboard 11kW AC charger is standard, while DC fast charging will replenish 80 per cent of the battery in 30 minutes. The Marvel R will also offer V2L (vehicle-to-load) charging, as seen on the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which will allow charging of electric appliances such as e-bicycles, or even another BEV.

Compared to the Marvel X, the MG Marvel R shows nearly exactly the same dimensions, measuring in at 4,674mm long, 1,919mm wide, and 1,618mm tall, on a 2,800mm long wheelbase. The front and rear of the Marvel R show the most significant changes, with sleeker, more futuristic styling at either end. Inside, the highlight remains the 19.4-inch touchscreen, and 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panels.

Though, as we found in our time with the Roewe Marvel X, both at SAIC headquarter in China and at the Auto Expo 2020, fit and finish of the cabin is also quite commendable. The new MG Marvel R is slated for a European launch in May 2021, while the MG5 Electric station wagon is expected later this year, around October 2021. An Indian launch for the Marvel R could be on the cards in the coming future, considering the overwhelming response the MG Marvel X received when it was showcased at the Auto Expo 2020.

Watch our video walkaround of the MG Marvel X here: