Comprehensive Review: Pros and Cons of Buying the Windsor EV

Explore notable pros and cons of the MG Windsor EV that every potential buyer should consider. The advantages of purchasing the MG Windsor EV are significant and certainly worth your attention. Additionally, we will outline the drawbacks of the Windsor EV, providing you with a comprehensive to make a well-informed purchasing decision.

MG Windsor EV Pros:

Deviation from the Claimed Range is Around 15%

After using an MG EV for the long term, we can confidently say that adopting a slightly conservative driving style along with Eco mode makes it easy to hit the promised range. The Windsor EV, much like its competitors in this price bracket, also delivers on its advertised range when driven in Eco+ mode and at a relaxed pace.

Even if Eco+ isn’t your thing, you can still expect about 280km of range with the Normal driving mode and Normal regen setting-only around 15% shy of the claimed figure. It’s worth noting that some other brands like Tata, have had to adjust their initial range claims downwards by as much as 40%. Clearly, the MG EV stands out when it comes to delivering real-world performance.

Unique Aerodynamic Styling

The Windsor’s distinctive aerodynamic front end paired with its MPV-like rear end truly stands out in the crowded field of faux SUVs within the C-Segment. This EV embraces a bold crossover design, rejecting the typical bulky and boxy SUV aesthetic. It’s refreshing change in an increasingly cluttered market that desperately needs something different. The Windsor is not just another vehicle, it’s a breath of fresh air that redefines expectations and elevates the entire segment.

Great Road Presence

You really need to see the Windsor to grasp just how impressive it is. It’s not only comparable in size to a Creta but also boasts a width similar to that of the Innova Hycross. Pictures don’t do it justice, once you see it in person, you’ll understand why its road presence is so striking.

Thanks to its cleverly designed small hood area, generous wheelbase, and an innovative EV-specific skateboard platform, the cabin space is surprisingly roomy for an SUV of this size. Even with the front seat adjusted for someone who’s 6 feet tall, there’s still ample room for another 6-footer to stretch out comfortably in the back.

And let’s not forget about storage: the Windsor features impressive boot space- 604 litres in lower variants and 584 litres in the top version with a subwoofer. For comparison, while the Curvv has a solid 500 litres of cargo volume, it’s clear that the Windsor leads as one of the best options in its class

Reclining Rear Seats – In A 2-Row Car

Reclining second-row seats are a common luxury in many three-row vehicles, but they are surprisingly rare in two-row cars. When they are available, you are often stuck with a limited two-or three-step recline- where the first position is just slightly relaxed and the second is typically where you’ll settle for comfort on longer rides.

Enter the Windsor, which boasts an impressive second-row recline of up to 135 degrees – a feature almost equivalent to what you find in the front rows of some cars. Coupled with its plus interiors, spacious cabin, and whisper-quiet electric powertrain, the Windsor stand as an exceptional choice for city chauffeurs who demand both comfort and sophistication.

Enhances Cabin Experience

The Windsor top model features an impressive, cease-free glass roof that comes equipped with calming multi-colour ambient lighting, taking the cabin experience to unparalleled heights. You’d typically expected to pay around Rs 45 lakh (ex-showroom) for a car with such a premium feature.

Moreover, the fixed roof design ensures safety for your kids while you are on the move. There’s no need to unbuckle them like some less responsible drivers might do – this is about ensuring peace of mind and security for your family during every journey.

Loaded Base Variant

Its impressive how well-equipped the base model is for a car priced at Rs 13.50 lakh. In fact, many petrol cars in this price range come with fewer features. The Windsor base model includes a variety of desirable options such as cruise control, power mirrors, a 10.1-inch touchscreen compatible with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, steering mounted controls, automatic climate control, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, TPMS(Tire Pressure Monitoring System), front armrest, split rear-seats, LED headlamps and tail lamps, rear AC    vents, and adjustable tilt and telescopic steering with sleek flush door handles.

Considering all these features for its price point, the base variant feels remarkably complete and is perfectly suitable for long-term use. If you are looking for value without compromising on quality or functionality, this car certainly stands out as a smart choice.

Pricing of Rs 9.99 Lakh (With BaaS)

The innovative battery subscription model is transforming the way we think about owning and operating electric vehicles (EVs). The Windsor’s launch price of just Rs 9.99 lakh is a game changer, making it more affordable than ever to purchase an EV. Even when considering the full price of Rs 13.50 lakh, which includes the battery cost, the Windsor challenges the common belief that EVs are prohibitively expensive upfront.

With its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model, it becomes evident that owning and maintaining an MG Windsor can be significantly cheaper – especially for those with home charging options. While public charging costs vary and could rise in the future to match petrol or diesel prices, it’s clear that in terms of initial investment and ongoing expenses, the MG Windsor offers a compelling case for anyone considering and electric vehicle.

First Year Unlimited Free Public Charging

For the very first time, a carmaker is offering buyers the incredible opportunity of free fuel for an entire year with absolutely no strings attached. At the recent drive event, we pressed MG officials about potential hidden catches behind this offer, and they firmly assured us that there are none. Yes, you heard it right-unlimited free public charging. This unique approach not only allows customers to enjoy their electric vehicles but also gives them ample time to explore more affordable charging solutions at home if they don’t have one yet.

This bold move by MG reflects their genuine desire for customers to truly experience both their EVs and the charging infrastructure, showing that they are willing to invest in your satisfaction instead of traditional marketing methods. It might seem risky and potentially costly, but its undeniably a customer-focused decision that promises long-term benefits for MG in India. This is not just an offer its an invitation to join a community where your experience matters.

Unlimited KM, Lifetime Battery Warranty

MG is committed to reshaping the perception of electric vehicles (EVs) by dispelling the myth that they are prohibitively expensive. They are leading the charge with an impressive free public charging initiative and a groundbreaking, unlimited kilometre lifetime warranty on their batteries. This bold move is a clear signal that MG is in it for the long-term, they aren’t just looking to make a quick profit and disappear when challenges arise.

Making such a daring announcement requires immense courage and unwavering confidence in their technology. On launch day, MG rolled out a series of surprising announcements that not only caught media outlets, dealers, and customers off guard but also left competitors utterly astonished. This level of innovation and assurance sets MG apart as a forward-thinking-leaders in the EV market.

Exclusive Physical AC Controls

One of the standout features in the Windsor’s lineup is undoubtedly the addition of physical AC controls. This thoughtful inclusion is exclusive to the Indian version of the car, as international models do not offer this feature. This decision underscores MG’s dedication to the Indian market and highlights their responsiveness to customer feedback. They are not just hearing our requests, they are actively taking steps to meet our needs swiftly and effectively.

MG’s Phenomenal Customer Service, Support, and Sales Experience

If the previous points didn’t convince you to check out this new brand, here’s the one that definitely will. Based on feedback from the MG car owners who have had long term experiences, we can confidently say that MG prioritizes customer satisfaction like no other. When a customer faces an issue due to an MG decision, their representatives are incredibly flexible and go out of their way to meet those needs. Unlike many carmakers who might leave customers hanging with excuses, MG strives to deliver an experience that exceeds expectations- something you would typically associate with luxury brands.

What’s even more impressive is that this exceptional service is consistent across all channels, including their sales and service centres. Plus, while luxury brands often charge exorbitant prices for a top-notch experience, MG provides high-quality services without breaking the bank.

MG Windsor EV Cons:

Quirky Personality

The MG Windsor undeniably stands out with its unique personality. Its exterior design is a striking mix of MPV and hatchback styles, making it truly one-of-a-kind in person. Unlike other MPVs that often suffer from cramped three-row seating, the Windsor offers a spacious two-row setup that enhances comfort considerably. Plus, unlike typical hatchbacks that are usually under four meters long, the Windsor boasts an impressive size comparable to the Innova Hycross.

When it comes to driving, the electric powertrain is a game-changer. While it’s user-friendly and easy to adapt to, for many buyers, this will be their first encounter with an electric vehicle—an exciting new experience!

On top of all this, the interface and controls are refreshingly distinct. MG has thoughtfully included physical controls for auto AC specifically for the Indian market; however, many functions like those for the glass roof curtain and power mirrors utilize touch operation. The touchscreen interface is designed to offer users a modern experience that aligns perfectly with today’s tech-savvy expectations. Embrace this innovative vehicle—it’s not just about transportation; it’s about stepping into the future!

Lack of Physical Controls

Despite some quirks, the absence of physical controls for elements like power mirrors, drive and regen modes, headlamps, and roof curtains means you’ll need to put in some effort to get accustomed. It’s a point of frustration that we really wish was different. However, MG’s decision to provide physical controls for the auto AC specifically for the Indian market shows they’re tuned into our needs. This gives us hope that future updates will address at least some of these concerns.

On a positive note, if you’re considering purchasing this car, you can be confident that an MG representative will give you a brief rundown on how everything works before your test drive. Plus, you’ll receive detailed instructions when it’s time to take delivery of your Windsor EV.

PM 2.5 Cabin Filter Only in Top Variant

It’s truly puzzling that MG’s product team decided to include the PM 2.5 cabin filter exclusively in the top variant of the Windsor. For context, this is a relatively inexpensive part, costing just Rs. 500, that significantly enhances air quality by filtering out particles as tiny as 2.5 microns (2,500 nanometres). Considering it needs to be replaced every 10,000-20,000 km, this presents an ongoing revenue opportunity for MG and their dealerships.

Incorporating this filter into standard equipment would not only benefit MG financially but also provide significant value to their customers. To add to the confusion, they already include this feature in even the base model of their most budget-friendly car—the Comet EV. Therefore, limiting it to just the top variant of Windsor is hard to justify and even harder to understand.

BaaS Will Make You Wish You Paid Attention in Math Class

Battery as a Service (BaaS) may seem like a novel and complicated idea for many buyers, but it’s crucial to recognize its potential advantages. While car manufacturers are increasingly focusing on creating emotional connections to encourage impulse purchases, Windsor’s BaaS model actually prompts consumers to take a more analytical approach. It compels you to do the math before making your decision.

Once you break down the numbers, you’ll likely see that opting for BaaS is a smart choice for numerous buyers. However, arriving at this realization can require some effort—especially if math wasn’t your strong suit in school. Embracing this model could lead you to significant savings and benefits that could make all the difference in your purchasing experience.

Mid Variant Skips Seat Ventilation But Gets Leather Upholstery

The hot and humid climate of the Indian subcontinent underscores the necessity of seat ventilation. This feature becomes even more critical when dealing with non-breathable materials like leather or leatherette upholstery. Consequently, it’s challenging to rationalize including leather upholstery in mid-range variants that lack ventilation options. In contrast, some car manufacturers have recognized this need and are now providing front seat ventilation in models featuring faux leather upholstery, striking a balance between comfort and practicality.

18-inch Wheels Are Big: May Be Too Big

Similar to the previous point, the large alloy wheels can create confusion for potential buyers. Rational consumers will likely view them as inefficient, as moving larger rotating masses requires significantly more energy. While emotional buyers may be drawn to the aesthetics, they could find themselves overwhelmed by the practical implications and struggle to rationalize their choice to purchase the Windsor. Offering smaller 16-inch wheels on lower trims and 17-inch alloys on higher variants would have been a wiser strategy. This approach would not only streamline options but also alleviate confusion for logical buyers seeking efficiency in their decision-making process.

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