MG M9 redefines luxury with electric power and rear-seat comfort

The Hindu

11-07-2025

India has seen luxury sedans and SUVs evolve over the years, but with the MG M9, the game shifts entirely. This all-electric MPV does not just redefine segment expectations, it rewrites the rulebook. Designed for those who believe that the true experience lies in the back seat, the M9 delivers what can only be described as a mobile sanctuary. Chauffeur-driven luxury takes on a whole new dimension here, and the focus is clearly on rear-seat indulgence.
The highlight of the MG M9 is undoubtedly its second row. MG has gone all in with a pair of 'Presidential Seats' that feel more like airline first-class pods. They are not only 16-way power adjustable, but also feature ventilation, heating, and an 8-mode massage function. What sets them apart is their ability to fully recline, almost flat, to create a bed-like setup. Whether you are taking a mid-day nap between meetings or escaping a late-night shoot, this is luxury that genuinely lets you recharge.
Adding to the convenience is a fully integrated touchscreen control interface nestled into the armrest. It is intuitive, fast, and provides access to seat settings, ambient lighting, the panoramic sunroof, and air conditioning. You do not need to stretch or search. Everything is literally at your fingertips. This is a cabin designed for those who want to switch off from the world and be cocooned in luxury while on the move. Honestly, looking at how our cities are going, the M9 would be an ideal place to be while stuck in traffic! You have your own mobile lounge and for a lot of people that could make all the difference.
While the rear seat is where most M9 buyers will spend their time, those occasional moments behind the wheel will not disappoint. I had the opportunity to drive the M9, and it left a lasting impression. Despite its generous proportions — it is the longest MPV in India — the M9 feels surprisingly manageable in urban environments. Visibility is excellent, and the steering is light enough for tight manoeuvres. The commanding driving position is a definite bonus, and the digital IRVM makes it easy to deal with reversing or even getting a clear view of the road behind. It works well at night too.
Power delivery is smooth and linear, courtesy the front-mounted electric motor that produces 245 PS and 350 Nm of torque. There is even a Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response noticeably for a quick burst of power — an unexpected surprise in a chauffeur-driven MPV. Ride quality, however, remains the standout. Thanks to MacPherson struts up front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, the M9 glides over rough surfaces with the composure of a well-sorted sedan.
The front seats, like those in the second row, are generously cushioned and offer heating, massage, and memory functions. The cabin is insulated beautifully, making highway cruises eerily quiet. If there is one area that could use an upgrade, it is the driver display — it is functional but a touch small for a car of this size and stature. The large central touchscreen, however, more than makes up for it, offering access to a wide array of vehicle functions, including EV-specific settings and connected car tech via MG's iSmart suite.
The M9 may be luxury-focused, but it has not forgotten its MPV roots. The third row is not an afterthought — it offers adult-usable space, with generous legroom, USB charging ports, individual air conditioning vents, and decent cushioning. Even tall passengers will not feel short-changed.
Boot capacity is another strong point. MG has smartly mounted the third row on rails, allowing you to slide or fold it depending on your cargo needs. You also get a clever 55-litre frunk under the bonnet — perfect for storing small bags, chargers or daily essentials. With the third row folded flat, the M9 offers up to 1,720 litres of usable luggage space. Whether it is airport runs, weddings, or weekend retreats, the M9 has room for it all.
The M9 makes its presence felt with clean, imposing proportions and well-executed design elements. The trapezoidal grille, split LED headlamps, and rear Star River-inspired taillights give it both modern flair and a hint of understated elegance. Electric sliding doors provide drama-free ingress and egress, while 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in self-sealing Continental tyres add a layer of practicality.
All the three exterior colour options — Pearl Lustre White, Concrete Grey, and Metal Black — feature contrasting black roofs to enhance visual drama. This is not a car that begs for attention, but one that commands it with poise.
The M9 is loaded with safety tech, headlined by Level 2 ADAS. You get adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with auto emergency braking, blind spot detection, lane keep assist, and even intelligent speed limit assistance. Seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX mounts, ESP, and TPMS round off the list. It also boasts a 5-star crash rating from Euro NCAP and ANCAP, further cementing its credentials as a safe cocoon for its occupants.
Connectivity is handled by MG's iSmart platform, with over 40 connected car features. Voice commands, remote locking/unlocking, geo-fencing, and even smartwatch compatibility are included. A 13-speaker JBL audio system brings aural excellence to match the visual and tactile luxury inside.
The MG M9 is not trying to compete with conventional luxury sedans or SUVs — it is creating a space all its own. It is for those who are used to being driven, who value comfort over cornering speeds, and who expect a seamless blend of luxury, practicality, and innovation.
Pricing will play a critical role in how the market receives the M9. But if MG manages to position it between ₹70–80 lakh (ex-showroom), it could well undercut traditional European luxury offerings while giving an experience that is more tailored to the expectations of the Indian buyer, especially those of film stars, industrialists, and corporate buyers looking for something spacious, electric, and statement-making.
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