When MG decided to add ‘Pro’ to the Windsor EV’s name, it was clear that they had taken a leaf out of the tech world’s book. It’s got to be better in some way, probably with a larger battery, more useful tech, or just better overall value? We take the newly rechristened car for a spin to know more about it, and to test if it deserves its new, longer name.

Okay, it has a bigger battery, so that’s a good start. At 52.9 kWh, exclusively available on the top-spec Essence variant, this is equipped to offer a claimed range of 449 km. This, would theoretically make the Windsor more natural at long-distance driving. We’ve come far from when EVs offered a paltry range on a single charge, but it’s always nice to see something that will do more than 350 km of driving without having to stop for a top-up. We had a 200-km round trip to find out about the car.

So, without wasting any further time, I got behind the wheel of the Pro. It’s a similar experience to other EVs. Things you are bound to appreciate haven’t changed much: it still has the nearly instant torque, which in turn makes the car quite rapid at picking up speed, and all this without making much noise. It might not be the most exciting thing to drive, but the MG Windsor Pro shows its sportier side in the aptly named Sport mode.

Effortless performance

There are four modes to choose from: Eco, Eco+, Normal, and Sport. The latter tends to bring out the best of the Windsor Pro’s character. With 134 bhp and 20.39 kg-m on tap, available from the front-mounted motor, the Windsor Pro didn’t hesitate in traversing the twisty highways of Northeast India. Stomp the accelerator, and you will notice wheel spin. A gentler push will enable you to overtake multiple trucks in one go. Plus, with its zero lag and overall smooth power delivery, the Windsor Pro seems well-suited for a variety of driving conditions.

In terms of range, MG says that the Windsor Pro can manage 449 km on a single charge. Although we couldn’t get enough time with the car to perform a full-fledged range test, we estimated a realistic range of 380 km, which isn’t bad at all. We started at 99 per cent when the onboard computer indicated 430 km of range left. We drove for about 200 km in various conditions (uphill, downhill, twisty highways, etc.) and still had just about 200 km of estimated range. The car’s regenerative braking was used moderately, and we indulged in some spirited driving, too. In addition, the car’s fast-charging capabilities have also improved. It now accepts 60 kW DC fast chargers, making it easier than before (45 kW) to cover long distances in the Windsor.

It’s aimed to offer great comfort and practicality, but even when pushed while cornering, the MG Windsor Pro holds its line well, without exhibiting traits that would take your confidence away. The steering is not what keen enthusiasts would like, but it’s light and accurate. The Windsor Pro’s battery is mounted on the floor, which makes the car seem planted. The suspension works well on smooth highways to increase the car’s road-holding abilities, whereas on sharp bumps, it tends to feel a bit stiff. That can also be down to the large 18-inch wheels. On the whole, it is not highly uncomfortable and thus seems to be a good balance between handling and comfort.

Cabin comfort

The cabin is where the Windsor proves to be in a league of its own. The dual-tone ivory interior is inviting and presents its airy and spacious interior in a great way. The rear seats also have a reclining function, enabling a sofa-like experience for passengers. We would’ve liked it to offer added under-thigh support, but having said that, long drives are still very relaxed in the back seat. The other thing that works in Windsor’s favour is the rear space. The car’s overall wheelbase is similar to that of the Innova, and without having to fix a third row of seats, it just means maximum room for the rear-seat passengers. There are many cup holders, deep storage compartments, and a massive 579-litre boot. It’s worth noting that the boot capacity has increased from earlier, probably due to repackaging.

Seamless tech

It’s like a massive tablet stuck onto the dashboard, especially when you connect with Apple Auto or Android Auto

It’s like a massive tablet stuck onto the dashboard, especially when you connect with Apple Auto or Android Auto | Photo Credit: Kaizad Darukhanawala

Tech lovers will appreciate the large (and I mean it) 15.6-inch touchscreen. It’s like a massive tablet stuck onto the dashboard, especially when you connect with Apple Auto or Android Auto. It doesn’t falter in terms of reach, legibility, or features. While I would have liked to see more buttons, the overall interface is intuitive.

The physical climate control panel is still not hidden under menus in the touchscreen system, but you’ll need to access the infotainment system for basic tasks like adjusting the outside rear-view mirrors.

On the other hand, the ease of use is highlighted by the absence of a conventional start/stop button. Getting in and driving an EV doesn’t get any simpler than this. If you have the key in your pocket, get in the driver’s seat, tap the brake, and the car will be ready to follow your commands.

But it’s not just aimlessly listening to driver inputs; in the case of an emergency, the car gets to caution and even take control from the driver. The list of ADAS features available on the Windsor Pro includes lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking, among others. The standard safety kit also includes six airbags, a 360-degree camera, parking sensors (front and rear), ABS, ESC, etc.

Verdict

In terms of overall looks, the Windsor EV Pro is still quite futuristic and unlike anything else on the market. The styling is clean, but with LED light bars at the front and rear, it looks like a good mix. Its presence on the road is quite good, and while the wheelbase is long, the minimal overhangs at both ends make the car feel compact. For the new Pro version, MG has added three new paint choices: namely, Celadon Blue, Aurora Silver, and Glaze Red.

MG has priced the Windsor EV Pro at ₹17.5 lakh, ex-showroom, for the first 8,000 bookings. If you’re keen on using their Battery as a Service plan, the car will cost ₹12.49 lakh to buy and ₹4.5/km as the battery subscription cost. Regardless, if you’re looking for something comfortable, spacious, and decent-looking, the MG Windsor EV Pro has a lot going for itself. With the larger battery, quicker charging, and a long feature list, it proves that this one isn’t just a slight cosmetic update.

Worthy of the ‘Pro’ badge, you ask? We think so.

Published on May 16, 2025