The MG Windsor has taken the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market by storm, becoming a bestseller in 2024. As JSW MG's first product after its joint venture, the Windsor’s success is no small feat. But what makes it so appealing, and is it worth the hype? We spent a few days putting the Windsor through its paces to test its range, features, and driving experience.

Exterior Design: A Unique Blend of Styles

Measuring just under 4.3 meters, the MG Windsor looks compact but has a remarkably long wheelbase, which maximizes interior space. Its design straddles multiple segments, making it a true crossover. Built on an electric platform, the Windsor benefits from a clean, futuristic aesthetic that stands out on the road. With its sharp lines and appealing proportions, it offers a fresh take on urban EV design.

Interior, Features, and Space

Cabin and Features

Step inside, and it’s clear that the Windsor prioritizes comfort and technology. The pop-out door handles are a neat touch, adding both style and convenience. The cabin feels airy, thanks to a large windscreen and minimalist design. Storage spaces abound, from the center console to door pockets and cup holders.

The centerpiece of the dashboard is a massive tablet-like touchscreen that controls almost every function, from the drive modes to the ORVM adjustments. While the screen resolution is excellent, the sheer number of controls crammed into it can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, the air conditioning controls are physical, making them easier to use.

Premium Feel

Despite the absence of soft-touch materials, the cabin feels premium, with thoughtful design elements like stylish door handles and speaker grilles. The Windsor boasts an impressive feature list, including:

• Cooled seats
• In-built apps
• A large glass roof
• A high-quality 9-speaker audio system
• 360-degree camera with excellent display quality

Space and Comfort

Space is where the Windsor truly shines. The rear seats are particularly impressive, offering a 135-degree recline and a flat floor for maximum comfort. Individual headrests and ample legroom make it an excellent choice for chauffeur-driven buyers. The boot is spacious, although it lacks a powered tailgate.

Driving Experience, Range, and Charging

Performance

The Windsor is powered by a 37.9 kWh battery pack, delivering 136 hp and 200 Nm of torque. It offers smooth, linear power delivery, making it easy to drive in city conditions. While the acceleration isn’t sporty, it’s perfect for urban use, focusing on comfort and refinement rather than outright speed.

Driving Modes and Range

The Windsor offers multiple drive and regenerative braking modes, allowing drivers to balance performance and efficiency. In Eco mode, with careful throttle inputs and maximum regeneration, we achieved close to 300 km of range, although typical usage yields around 250-280 km.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The Windsor’s light steering makes it effortless to maneuver in tight spaces. While the ride quality is slightly firm at lower speeds, it smooths out as speed increases. The excellent ground clearance ensures that even with four passengers and luggage, it can handle rough roads and speed bumps with ease.

Charging

Charging the Windsor is straightforward, especially with the eHUB network, which eliminates the need for multiple apps. The optional BAAS (Battery-as-a-Service) rental plan also reduces upfront costs, making the Windsor more accessible.

Verdict: Why the Windsor Stands Out

The MG Windsor isn’t just an EV—it’s a versatile, tech-loaded, and spacious vehicle that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Its strengths include:

• Generous interior space and rear-seat comfort
• Feature-packed cabin with modern technology
• Smooth driving experience and adequate range for city use
• Competitive pricing with the BAAS option

However, there are a few drawbacks, such as the over-reliance on touchscreen controls and the lack of a larger battery pack for extended range.

For city dwellers looking for an alternative to SUVs or MPVs, the Windsor delivers a compelling mix of style, comfort, and practicality. Its success isn’t just about being an EV—it’s about being a great car overall.