MG Windsor road test review
February 15, 2025
Our initial impressions of the MG Windsor were highly positive, and we hailed it as MG’s finest EV to date. The market agreed, and since its launch in September 2024, MG has been selling over 3,000 units monthly, making it the highest-selling EV each month. So, just how good is it, and how would it fare in our comprehensive real-world tests?
MG Windsor price and ownership cost
- MG Windsor price range is Rs 13.50 lakh and Rs 15.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Battery-as-a-Service (BAAS) option reduces initial cost by Rs 3.5 lakh
- Battery warranty & car warranty: 8 years/1.6 lakh km & 3-year/unlimited km
The MG Windsor is available in three variants, priced between Rs 13.50 lakh and Rs 15.50 lakh (ex-showroom). To reduce the upfront cost, MG offers a unique Battery-as-a-Service (BAAS) option through third-party financial institutions. This allows buyers to finance the battery separately, reducing the initial cost burden by Rs 3.50 lakh, with the battery cost paid in monthly installments. As per the agreement, owners might have to pay either a predetermined amount or an amount based on actual usage (per kilometre), for a period of up to 8 years, similar to a typical car loan.
A short bonnet provides access to the fluids and 12V battery.
The Windsor comes with a standard 3-year (unlimited km) warranty on the vehicle, which can be extended to 5 years. The high-voltage (HV) battery pack is covered by a lifetime warranty of up to 15 years, matching the validity of its registration certificate. For second owners, the battery warranty is limited to 8 years or 1.6 lakh kilometres (whichever comes first) from the original delivery date.
MG also offers a compelling assured buyback program, guaranteeing a resale value of up to 60 percent of the ex-showroom price after three years, depending on the vehicle’s condition. This buyback offering could be a huge draw for buyers, especially because resale values of EVs tend to plummet, and are quite poor compared to comparable ICE cars.
MG Windsor range and charging
- MIDC-certified range of 332km
- Tested real-world range of 308km
- Charging time: 5-80% in 42 min (60kW DC fast charger)
The charging flap is located on the pasenger-side front fender.
The Windsor boasts of an MIDC-certified range of 332 kilometres on a single charge, and our real-world testing revealed an impressive performance. We set the air conditioning to 22-degrees centigrade and the regenerative braking to its default ‘Heavy’ setting. In city conditions, we used the most efficient ‘Eco+’ mode, while on the highway, we switched to ‘Eco’ mode since Eco+ limits the top speed to 80kph. The Windsor delivered an efficiency of 8.6km/kWh in the city and 7.6km/kWh on the highway, averaging 8.1km/kWh. This gives an extrapolated real-world range of 308 kilometres on a full charge.
Several factors contribute to the Windsor’s efficiency, including its 0.27 coefficient of drag, low rolling resistance tyres, high recommended tyre pressure of 36psi, and favourable ambient temperatures. However, in ‘Normal’ mode under mixed driving conditions, the efficiency dropped to 6km/kWh, yielding a range of approximately 230km.
MG Windsor charging times
MG states that the Windsor supports a maximum DC fast charging speed of 45kW, allowing the 38kWh battery to charge from 0-80 percent in just 55 minutes. Using a 60kW DC fast charger, it charged from 5-80 percent in about 42 minutes. On a 30kW DC fast charger, it charged from 35-85 percent in 43 minutes and took an additional 20 minutes to top up from 85-100 percent. When using a 11kW AC charger, the battery charged from 25-80 percent in 3.5 hours.
MG Windsor interior
- Entry in and exit from cabin is easy
- Panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting enhance ambience
- Softer cushioning, reduced lumbar padding would have improved seat comfort
- Subwoofer under boot floor reduces capacity from 604 litres to 579 litres
A minimalist design enhanced by neat accents and ambient lighting. Quality and fit-finish are largely good.
The Windsor’s wide-opening doors and tall stance make entry and exit easy, even for elderly passengers. Inside, there’s a massive 15.6-inch horizontally oriented touchscreen taking centre stage, overshadowing the smaller 8.8-inch instrument cluster – smaller than even the Comet’s 10.25-inch unit. The dashboard features a flat, table-like top with integrated cupholders, cleverly utilising the expansive surface area.
A huge storage compartment below the centre console can easily accommodate large handbags.
The cabin sports a predominantly black colour scheme, accented with dark brown, wood-like plastic inserts on the dashboard, centre console, and doors. Champagne Gold elements and tufted seat upholstery further enhance the interior’s character. Notably, the circular Champagne Gold speaker grille-like decorations on the doors are purely aesthetic, as the actual speakers are mounted lower. Adding to the ambience is a generous application of ambient lighting throughout the cabin.
Physical toggle buttons for the climate control and hazard lights are a welcome addition.
Driving controls include a Mercedes-style drive selector but on the left stalk, while the right stalk manages the wiper settings. The two-spoke steering wheel features toggle buttons with dual functions, which will take time to master. The left toggle switches between adjusting the left mirror, right mirror, and climate controls, while the right toggle alternates between volume and multi-information display menus. Just like the MG Comet, there isn’t a dedicated start-stop button, so to bring the motor to life, you need to depress the brake pedal twice (with the key inside the car).
Dual-use buttons on the steering are confusing and will take owners some time to get used to.
MG Windsor seat comfort
The seats, while visually resembling plush sofas, are firm and do not provide a sink-in feel. The front seats are comfortable, though some may find the lumbar support excessive. They also feature ventilation, which is activated via the touchscreen. Unlike most cars, the Windsor starts seat ventilation at its lowest blower setting rather than the highest.
Tufted leatherette seats look plush, but the cushioning is on the firm side.
Thanks to its electric underpinnings, the Windsor boasts a flat floor, which enhances the cabin’s sense of space. Legroom and headroom are adequate, and the wide rear seat comfortably accommodates a third passenger. There’s ample space even for taller occupants to stretch out, although, in the standard setting, the seating position can feel slightly knees-up. A standout feature is the ‘aero-lounge’ rear bench with a backrest that reclines up to 135 degrees for added comfort. In its most reclined position, it is easy for the chauffeur-driven to grab forty winks or simply gaze at the sky through its expansive panoramic glass roof. Softer cushioning and reduced lumbar padding would further enhance rear-seat comfort, and a set of window shades would have added a hint of privacy, too.
There’s ample space and a generous recline angle to get comfy.
In terms of practicality, the Windsor offers ample storage options, including door pockets, two cupholders on the dashboard, a floating centre console, and a sizeable storage compartment below. Multiple charging points, including a wireless charging pad, are provided, though the pad’s charging speed is notably slow.
MG Windsor boot space
A large 579-604L boot with a deep layout and an adjustable floor level.
The Windsor’s 604-litre boot is among the largest in the midsize segment, with a deep layout and an adjustable floor level. In top-spec models, a subwoofer beneath the boot floor reduces capacity slightly to 579 litres. While there is space allocated beneath the floor, neither variant comes with a spare tyre as standard, though it can be added as an optional extra, much like the parcel shelf.
MG Windsor features and safety kit
- Top-spec Windsor Essence variant has impressive array of features
- Infotainment system laggy; functions for auto AC and more included
- 360 camera and 6 airbags standard though misses rear wiper, rear sunblinds, and spare tyre
Stylish grilles are for aesthetics only; speakers are positioned below.
In its top-spec Essence variant, the Windsor comes fully loaded with an impressive array of features. Key feature highlights include auto LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, leatherette upholstery, a 6-way powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, automatic climate control and cruise control.
The centrepiece of the interior is the massive 15.6-inch horizontally oriented touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and connected car technology. The system boasts a logical layout with large icons, but its performance is hindered by noticeable lag. Additionally, it replaces many physical controls – such as those for headlamp adjustment, wing mirror folding, sunshade operation, and seat ventilation – making these functions less convenient to use. Mercifully, MG has retained a physical panel for climate control. Adding to the experience is a delightful 9-speaker Infinity sound system, which delivers excellent audio quality.
MG Windsor safety kit
The rear wiper/washer is conspicuous by its absence.
A 360-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, ESP, and six airbags are offered on the range-topping variant as well.
MG has skimped on features like a rear wiper+washer, rear sunblinds, parcel shelf and spare tyre, some of which can be availed as paid options.
The subwoofer in the top-spec is placed beneath the boot floor.
The Windsor falls short in cabin sound insulation. Road, suspension, and ambient noises are prominent inside the cabin, and even with moderate speaker volume, those standing outside can hear music or phone conversations from inside the car. This lack of acoustic isolation detracts from an otherwise premium offering.
MG Windsor infotainment touchscreen
The 15.6-inch horizontally oriented touchscreen isn’t the best in terms of quickness or fluidity. In fact, with most functions of the vehicle relegated to this infotainment system, its slowness comes to light further. What’s nice, though, is that the icons are large and logically laid out, so you’ll quickly work your way around. It gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay too. While their operation isn’t completely seamless, we noticed the screen freeze on multiple occasions. MG also offers connected car features as well as some in-built apps with the car. Appreciably, sound quality from its 9-speaker Infinity system is delightful, delivering excellent audio quality.
MG Windsor performance
- 38kWh battery powers 136hp, 200Nm front motor
- 0-100kph in 9.8 seconds
- Top speed of 153kph; Eco+ mode limits to speed to 80kph
While the performance and range are good, cabin insulation leaves a lot to be desired.
The MG Windsor is powered by a 136hp, 200Nm motor mounted on the front axle, paired with a 38kWh Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. Unlike many EVs that deliver instant power, the Windsor’s acceleration is smooth and gradual, offering a more relaxed driving experience. It features four drive modes: Eco+, Eco, Normal, and Sport. Part-throttle responses are most subdued in Eco+ and Eco, prioritising efficiency.
MG Windsor acceleration
While part-throttle performance varies noticeably between Eco, Normal, and Sport, the difference under full-throttle acceleration is minimal, with the Windsor clocking 0-100kph in 9.8 seconds in these three modes. It pulls strongly up to 120kph, after which the torque curve tapers off. Still, the Windsor goes on to hit a top speed of 153kph with the motor spinning at 14,900rpm. In Eco+, acceleration is significantly dulled, with 0-60kph times two seconds slower than in other modes and top speed capped at 80kph.
MG Windsor one pedal drive
The Windsor also offers three levels of regenerative braking: Light, Normal and Heavy, with Heavy set as default. The differences between these modes are substantial; for instance, the car rolls nearly three times the distance when decelerating from 80-20kph in Light mode compared to Heavy. Regardless of the setting, deceleration remains smooth and predictable, enabling one-pedal driving for the most part. However, while the car slows to a crawl at 10kph, it doesn’t come to a complete stop without brake input.
MG Windsor ride and handling
- Cabin insulation not up to the mark
- Feels crashy over rough patches at city speeds
- Feels stable and predictable at highway speeds
- Body roll kept well in check
It grips well around corners, although body roll is prominent.
The Windsor’s cabin insulation leaves much to be desired, allowing noticeable road, tyre and suspension noise into the cabin. Combined with the suspension’s stiff setup and limited travel, the ride feels harsh, especially on uneven roads, where it audibly struggles and crashes over sharp potholes. Ride quality isn’t a strong suit; while a Nexon EV or an XUV400 manages to handle rough patches with ease, the Windsor tends to feel crashy in comparison. Additionally, at low and city speeds, there’s some noticeable side-to-side rocking.
However, the experience improves significantly at highway speeds, where the Windsor feels stable and predictable. The steering is another highlight, being light and effortless in city conditions while offering adequate weight as speeds increase. It weighs 1,566kg, and although it isn’t designed for spirited cornering, its squat stance and 215/55 R18 tyres provide impressive mechanical grip, with body roll kept well in check.
MG Windsor braking test
The Windsor features all-wheel disc brakes, delivering strong stopping power with a natural pedal feel. In our panic braking test from 80kph, it stopped in 27.15 metres – a performance on par with the Mahindra XUV400; a Nexon EV stops nearly 2 metres sooner.
MG Windsor exterior
- Design combines influences from MPVs, hatchbacks and SUVs
- Windsor wider than all midsize SUVs and MG’s Hector
The MG Windsor’s unique design blends elements from various body styles, combining influences from MPVs and hatchbacks while incorporating SUV-like traits. Our test car came equipped with accessories such as piano-black body cladding and roof rails, which, along with its tall ride height and 186mm ground clearance, enhance its SUV traits. The clean body lines and smooth surfaces give the impression of a wind tunnel-inspired design, and the large 18-inch wheels gel well with their proportions. Its mono-volume silhouette and substantial girth lend it an impressive road presence.
18-inch wheels go well with the car’s overall proportions.
Despite being shorter in length and height than the Creta, the Windsor stands out with its remarkable width of 1,850mm, making it wider than not only all midsize SUVs but also its larger sibling, the MG Hector.
Connected LED lights, illuminated logo are eye-catching at night.
The front features a distinctive two-tiered design, with a short, tipped-forward bonnet above and a rounded nose below. The horizontal daytime running lamp strip and illuminated MG logo take centre stage, while the headlights are positioned lower in the bumper, just above a mirror-like chrome panel. Along the sides, door-mounted mirrors, a chrome window trim that extends the car’s length, chrome accents on the doors, and pop-out door handles add to the vehicle’s visual appeal.
Pop-type door handles sit flush with its bodywork.
At the rear, a stylish pair of tail-lamps connected by a light bar adds character, mirroring the front’s two-tiered design on the boot lid. The rear spoiler further enhances the sporty look. However, a rear wiper and washer are conspicuous by their absence, and the rear windscreen tends to get quite dirty due to the vertical boot.
Should you buy the MG Windsor?
360-deg quality, resolution are good, but the floating 3D image of the car is poorly executed.
It’s easy to spot the Windsor’s flaws. Poor cabin insulation lets in road and ambient noise, detracting from the experience, and the overall user interface can be frustrating, with dual-function steering buttons and essential controls – like lighting, mirrors, and seat ventilation – buried in a non-intuitive and sluggish interface. But its strengths get you to look past them easily. Its unconventional styling makes it stand out handsomely. There’s plenty of space inside, and the rear seats are innovative and handy. The feature list is impressive, and the interiors have a quality and rich feel. Buyers will also appreciate its smooth performance and user-friendly driving experience, aided by light controls and clever parking aids. Its real-world efficiency is notable, delivering a combined range of 308km on a full charge.
Priced attractively between Rs 13.50 lakh and Rs 15.50 lakh, it undercuts rivals like the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Curvv EV, and Mahindra XUV400, offering exceptional value for money. MG further sweetens the deal with options like buyback plans, a battery-as-a-service scheme, and a lifetime (15-year) battery warranty. So, it’s a compelling choice and a highly recommendable car. It’s easy to see why it has earned its spot at the top of the EV market.
Also see:
MG Windsor video review
MG Windsor EV prices increased by Rs 50,000
Windsor EV accounts for 49 percent of MG’s India sales
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