MG Gloster: The MG Gloster was a daring shuffle from Morris Garages into India’s full-size SUV segment. What it runs against The Gloster is not so much a brute-force cement mixer like the Toyota, or Ford Endeavour it used to sit alongside (yes, it’s not that old) as much as smart features, loads of space inside and a barrel full of safety tech.
That the Gloster is a behemoth of a car in its segment is anything but a secret, because for once, bigger is truly better. It’s a one-of-a-kind proposition – luxury full of tech wrapped up in a rock-hard SUV.
MG Gloster Exterior – Majestic Road Presence
The Gloster is tailored to have a threatening look. The large size, exceeding 4.9 metres in length, also gives it a dominating presence on the road.
The front is dominated by a large chrome grille that stands out. Slim LED headlamps and a chiselled bumper further the car’s premium look.
From the profile, high ground clearance, square wheel arches and large alloy wheels add to the SUV look. The rear is nicely styled, with LED tail lights and just enough chrome.
It’s the sort of design that feels bold, but not stupid.
Cabin – Space Meets Elegance
Climb behind the wheel and it seems as if you are being invited into the cabin by a lounge. The luxury mood is set by plush leather upholstery, brushed aluminium trims and a dual-tone theme.
The Gloster will be offered in 6- and 7-seater configurations. And the rest receives captain seats for the middle row – ideal for those long drives.
Ventilated, powered and memory front seats. The panoramic sunroof enhances the airy feel, and ambient lighting allows you to tailor your mood.
The seventh-row seating is usable for short trips, but is best left for children or smaller adults.
Features – Where Tech Takes Over
The Gloster comes with one of the most comprehensive lists of USPs. It comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
It also has wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, a 12-speaker audio system, and i-SMART connected car tech which provides remote access, geo-fencing, and live vehicle tracking.
But the highlight would be ADAS – Advanced Driver Assistance System. That latter package features adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking.
This makes it one of the very few semi-autonomous SUVs in its class.
Engine Choices – Dual Turbo Punch in Diesel
Powering the MG Gloster is a 2.0-litre diesel engine under the hood. It’s available in two flavors- single and twin turbo.
The single turbo produces 161 bhp and 375 Nm and is adequate for easy driving. The twin turbo, however, ups the 215 bhp and 480 Nm – giving it some in-gear kick and legs for toiling on the highway.
A well-tuned 8-speed automatic transmission handles changes appropriately. The top trims also get a 4×4 with terrain mode such as Snow, Sand, Rock, and Mud for light off-roading.
This power configuration provides performance when you want it and comfort when you don’t.
Behind the Wheel – Comfortable and Capable
The Gloster’s demeanor on the road is of the composed, self-assured kind. The steering is a little too easy for city work, and vague on the motorway. Even so, the handling is largely predictable and safe.
It soaks up bad roads well, the suspension being softer and more comfort-oriented. On the interstate, it feels secure and poised, especially the twin-turbo version.
Its ladder-frame chassis provides strength, and the high seating position offers a commanding view.
No, it’s not a canyon carver, but it provides a comfortable ride that’s perfect for family jaunts.
Safety – Built with Confidence
One of Gloster’s greatest attributes is safety. As standard, the SUV comes loaded with six airbags, with the higher variants getting seven.
It even gets the ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, ABS with EBD, traction control and ISOFIX mounts included.
Now, with ADAS features to boot, it provides an extra peace of mind on highways and city streets.
I applaud the focus MG has placed on passenger protection in a class that can often become overshadowed by the rough and tumble looks.
Fuel Economy – On Par with the Category
Considering its dimensions and weight, the MG Gloster is unlikely to be frugal. Mileage: 12 km/l – 13.5 km/l (VARIES BETWEEN G-P-MT) HARSH-AVERAGE.
This is fine considering the size and power level of the vehicle. Yes, there’s only diesel for now, but owners looking for all-out economy might feel restricted.
But for what it serves up, the Gloster divides reasonably its power and economy.
After-Sales and Ownership
MG provides the Gloster with a 5-year unlimited km warranty and five years of roadside assistance. Fixed service plans and service bookings online ensure peace of mind and ease of use.
The company has been working towards expanding its premium service network all over the India that consumers have grown to expect and appreciate.
Variants and Pricing
The Gloster comes in three main sub-variants; Super, Sharp and Savvy. Prices start at approximately ₹38 lakh and can go all the way up to ₹43 lakh (ex-showroom), depending upon the features and the drivetrain options.
For what you get in size, comfort, ADAS and premium touches, the Gloster presents great value for the value-conscious luxury SUV shopper.
Pros of MG Gloster
Huge on the road and in the cabin
Strong performance from V8 turbodiesel engine
High-end ADAS at this Price point
Excellent ride quality and comfort
Value-packed in contrast to competitors such as Fortuner
Cons of MG Gloster
City driving challenge due to its size.
Diesel only; no petrol or hybrid versions
Brand awareness playing catch up to competitors
Third-row is best suited to small adults
Tad laggy in the single turbobersome variant ( edit 22042019 – its a crusty old bus edition of the single turbo only )
MG Gloster Verdict – Loaded To The Gills, Squares Well Among SUVs!
The reason here is that the MG Gloster doesn’t set out solely to be a me-too and it brings its own unique character to the premium SUV segment.
It combines space, luxury and technology in a package that feels eminently modern.
For those that want upmarket appeal, a comfortable and long list of features and safety gadgets to give more expensive SUVs a run for their money, the Gloster is a sweet deal.