Auto Expo 2020: New MG Gloster showcased; not set for Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: There is something about big SUVs that draws a lot of attention among automobile enthusiasts. However, the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour (Ford Everest here in Malaysia) now have a very strong competitor in the form of the MG Gloster. This new rival has been displayed at the Auto Expo 2020 and is likely to be launched in India around the end of 2020.

The MG Gloster is based on the Maxus D90 SUV, which is on sale in the Chinese market. It has a tall stance and a full-size body-on-frame built. The tall frame accommodates 19-inch alloy wheels. The rear end has a split tail light cluster and a faux skid plate lower down, with the twin exhaust pipes integrated within it. The “Gloster” moniker is embossed in bold in the lower half of the tailgate. The front fascia has a big bonnet with chrome-laden grille, sleek headlamps and LED DRLs.

There is no official confirmation of the mechanical specifications yet, although the MG Gloster is expected to get both petrol and diesel as options. The petrol variant is expected to bear a 2.0-litre, turbocharged engine that could churn out up to 220 PS of power 365 NM of torque. The diesel engine, on the other hand, is expected to have the same 2.0-litre capacity but with two turbochargers. Hence, the total power figures would stack up to 220 PS and a humongous 480 Nm. The transmission could be handled by a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. A 4-wheel drive mechanism should also be on the cards.

Feature-wise, the India-bound MG Gloster could replicate the China-spec model with a panoramic sunroof, 3-zone automatic climate control, 360-degree camera, etc. Six airbags, electronic stability programme and hill-hold control could don the safety department.

The MG Gloster could have a price tag of INR 35 lakhs (a little over RM 200,000). However, the SUV is not set for the Malaysian shores as MG is yet to have an establishment here. As of now, prospective buyers of full-size SUVs could consider the Toyota Fortuner (RM 171,500) and Ford Everest (RM 166,888) as your options. Moreover, there are many others to consider.

Also Read: Haima 8S compact SUV displayed at Auto Expo 2020