Complete Guide To Buying an MG Gloster

The Toyota Fortuner has long dominated the premium SUV segment below Rs. 50 Lakh in the Indian market, with virtually no competition for over a decade. However, the Fortuner hasn’t been able to keep up with technological advancements. When you are spending that kind of money, you’d expect a premium SUV that’s loaded with features, and MG Motor India has capitalised on this shortcoming with its flagship SUV, the MG Gloster. The Gloster has been the largest, most comfortable, and most technologically advanced SUV in its segment, with a plethora of segment-first features, making it a compelling choice for tech-savvy car buyers.

MG Motor India gave its flagship SUV a major facelift in 2023, dubbing it the ‘Advanced Gloster’, and it proudly boasts the title of India’s first autonomous (Level 1) premium SUV. The 2023 Gloster is priced at a starting price of Rs. 38.79 Lakh.

If you’re contemplating whether you should go for this tech-savvy premium SUV, fasten your seatbelts as we take you through the pros and cons of owning an MG Gloster, the variants and pricing, and why it deserves a spot in your garage with our guide to buying an MG Gloster.

MG Gloster Specifications

The 2023 MG Gloster is a premium SUV that’s more than just a set of wheels; it’s a powerful, feature-packed marvel that caters to every automotive desire you might have. It’s not just the largest SUV in the segment; it’s one of the most powerful ones, too.

Under its sleek hood, you’ll find a robust 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine offered in single-turbo and twin-turbo versions. The single-turbo version cranks out 161 PS and a whopping 373.5 Nm of torque. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can step into the more powerful twin-turbo version, dishing out a muscular 215 PS and an impressive 478 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. And if you’re wondering whether this ride can conquer any terrain, the answer is yes! The Gloster comes in both 2WD and 4WD variants, ready to tackle whatever adventure lies ahead.

Let’s take a closer look at the 2023 MG Gloster’s specifications, including its engine options, transmission, features, and ADAS functions, in the table below.

Why You Should Consider the MG Gloster

If you’re on the hunt for a luxurious, technologically advanced, and spacious SUV with a flair for adventure, the MG Gloster deserves a spot on your radar. Here are some reasons why this British-born SUV should be your next automotive love affair.

Turbocharged Beast Beneath the Hood

At the core of the 2023 MG Gloster, you’ll find one of the most powerful engines in the segment. The twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel engine churns out a 215 PS and an impressive 478 Nm of torque. Out of all the competitors, the Toyota Fortuner’s 2.8-litre diesel engine comes the closest in terms of power, offering 204 PS of power and 500 Nm of torque. 

Despite its gigantic dimensions, this beast beneath the hood ensures the Gloster doesn’t fall short when you push down the pedal.

Comfort Beyond Measure

Step inside the MG Gloster, and you’ll realise why it’s earned the title of being the largest, most comfortable, and best-equipped SUV in its segment. With a cabin that’s more spacious than ever, it outshines the competition. There’s room for everyone occupying the seats, and then some. Even the third-row passengers are treated to ample headroom and legroom. The Gloster eats up big potholes for breakfast thanks to the dual helix and five-link independent suspension at the front and rear, respectively. The 12-way electrically adjustable driver seat with a massager makes sure the driver is at utmost comfort when piloting the Gloster.

Surprising Agility for its Size

Handling a full-size SUV is no small feat, but the Gloster makes it seem effortless. Despite its imposing size, it’ll surprise you with its agility. The well-balanced chassis ensures stability at high speeds and around corners. The steering is responsive, providing a reassuring connection between you and the road.

First-in-Segment ADAS Features (India’s First Autonomous Level-1 Premium SUV)

The Advanced Gloster brings a new level of sophistication with its first-in-segment ADAS features. We all expect a car in this price range to have stuff like Lane Change Assist (LCA), Door Open Warning (DOW), and Blind Spot Detection (BSD). The Gloster boasts more advanced ADAS features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) to make sure your ride is as safe as it can be at all times.

In addition to these ADAS features, you get a total of 30+ standard safety features, which include everything from 360º Around View Camera to ABS + EBD + Brake Assist and Driver Fatigue Reminder System, the Gloster has your safety covered from each and every angle.

Multiple Driving Modes to Conquer Any Terrain

If you’re the adventurous type, the MG Gloster has something special for you. It offers four modes for off-road excursions, a feature that you’ll not find in its rivals for at least a few more years. MG Gloster’s Savvy variants come with an on-demand four-wheel-drive system, including a BorgWarner transfer case and electro-mechanical differential lock. Additionally, it also offers an Intelligent 4WD with All Terrain System with terrain modes like Snow, Sand, Eco, Mud, Auto, Rock, and Sport. In comparison, the Toyota Fortuner features a 4WD system with electronic drive control and High and Low range. But to tackle the taxing roads of both rural and urban India, the Gloster’s intelligent drivetrain comes in handy, especially on muddy roads and incomplete roads with rocks and such.

Tech-Savvy and Feature-Packed

For tech enthusiasts, the MG Gloster is a cache full of goodies. Like all the other cars in MG’s lineup, the MG Gloster also comes loaded with numerous best-in-segment features, and it’s also got several segment-first features too. You have ventilated and heated seats for both the driver and the passenger. The cherry on top is the massage feature added in for the driver seat, which is a rare luxury in this segment. 

Once you step inside, some of the things you’ll notice first are an 8-inch Multi-Information Display, 64 Colors Ambient Lighting, and Premium Leather Upholstery. There are Soft Touch Materials everywhere, and an impressive 12-speaker audio system is ready to sing at your command. The driver’s seat offers a 12-way power adjustment, including lumbar adjustment and heating features. Plus, there’s a dual-pane panoramic sunroof for more light and openness.

For the more tech-savvy people out there, the Gloster is powered by i-Smart 2.0. It boasts over 75 connected features including the likes of remote AC control and voice recognition. MG has left no stone unturned in creating an immersive and connected driving experience. From checking the weather, finding your car, or even booking a parking spot, MG’s i-Smart 2.0 has all under its belt.

Why You Should Not Consider the MG Gloster

While the MG Gloster packs a punch in many areas, it’s not the ultimate one-car solution to all problems. There are bound to be some drawbacks, at least when it comes to people’s individual needs and requirements. Here are some reasons why you might want to explore other options.

Styling — A Matter of Taste

Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, but some may find the Gloster’s design to be an acquired taste. The Gloster comes off as a bit old-school and less exciting compared to the Citroen C5 Aircross or the Skoda Kodiaq. Styling is subjective, and ensuring it aligns with your personal taste is essential.

Body Roll — Smooth Suspension Comes at a Cost

The Gloster’s soft suspension offers a plush ride, but it’s a double-edged sword. The other edge consists of excessive body roll, which might unsettle occupants. If you prefer a sportier feel or are fond of spirited cornering, you might want to explore other options.

Brand Perception in India — Trust Matters

When you’re investing in a new car, reliability and brand trust are a must, let alone a car as costly as Rs. 30 – 40 Lakh. In this regard, MG has the daunting task ahead of it to win the trust of Indian customers, who have been loyal to brands like Toyota and Hyundai for decades now. Toyota has earned a reputation for being one of the most dependable brands in India, while MG is still new to the Indian market. 

MG Gloster Variants and Price

MG discontinued the previous base-level variant, Super, leaving buyers with only two broad variants to choose from: the Sharp and the Savvy. While there’s no major difference between the two as far as features are concerned, the Sharp comes with all the must-have features and is offered in a 7-seater configuration with a price tag of Rs 38.08 Lakh.

The Savvy variant comes in both 6- and 7-seater configurations and an optional 4WD. Another major difference between the two variants is the engine. While the Sharp variant comes with a 2.0-litre Turbo diesel engine, the Savvy variant receives a more powerful 2.0-litre Twin Turbo diesel engine that produces 216 PS in comparison to the 161 PS in the Turbo diesel engine and an additional 100 Nm of torque.

Other than that, there are a few ADAS features like Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that are available only in the top-end model. Lastly, there are a few styling updates, like a dual-barrel twin chrome exhaust and 19-inch British Windmill Turbine-inspired alloy wheels.

Best MG Gloster Variant to Buy

All the features in the MG Gloster are more or less similar across all the variants. However, the main difference between them is in their seating capacity and drive type. The MG Gloster Savvy 4×2 Rs. 40.33 Lakh is the best variant to buy, considering the fact that the Gloster is more of a family vehicle than a hardcore off-roading SUV. Both the 6-seater and the 7-seater configurations come with the same price tag, giving you more freedom to choose depending on your day-to-day requirements.

If you wish to make the most of all the ADAS features and also plan to take the Gloster off-roading occasionally, you should opt for the MG Gloster Savvy 4×4, which is priced at Rs. 43.15 Lakh.

MG Gloster Warranty & Service Cost

MG Motor India offers the MG Shield warranty for their line-up of cars, including the MG Gloster. With the MG Shield, you get a 3-year unlimited-kilometer warranty, 3-year roadside assistance, and 3 labor-charge-free services. 

Furthermore, you can also further customise the warranty plan with an extended warranty of one or two years, a protection plan, and a buyback plan. The totality of the cost ranges from tens of thousands to three to four lakhs.

Summary

In conclusion, the 2023 MG Gloster emerges as a triumph of automotive engineering, seamlessly blending style, technology, luxury, safety, and performance into one captivating package. 

The Gloster elevates the standards in its segment, leaving its competitors in the shadows. For those who revel in cutting-edge technology, the MG Gloster Savvy 4×2 is nothing short of a dream come true. Its impressive technological features, from the expansive OLED touchscreen to voice-activated controls and adaptive cruise control, position it as a standout within its category.

Moreover, the inclusion of a 360-degree camera enhances safety and the overall driving experience. The seamless integration with mobile devices, high-definition touchscreen, and internet connectivity make it a dream for the tech-savvy consumer. 

The 2023 MG Gloster beckons as a remarkable choice for those who prioritize advanced technology, spaciousness, and versatility in a premium SUV.