The luxury MPV market in India has gained a powerful new contender with the arrival of the MG M9, a premium 7-seater designed to rival established models like the Toyota Vellfire, Kia Carnival, and Lexus LM.
Launched under the exclusive MG Select showroom network, the M9 has quickly attracted attention for offering Mercedes-like luxury features, superior safety, and more space than the Toyota Vellfire – all while being priced about 50% lower.
Quick Summary – MG M9 vs Toyota Vellfire
| Feature | MG M9 | Toyota Vellfire |
|---|---|---|
| On-Road Price (Mumbai) | ₹73.83 lakh | ~₹1.45 crore |
| Seating Capacity | 7-seater | 7-seater |
| Length | 265mm longer than Vellfire | Shorter |
| Wheelbase | 200mm longer | Shorter |
| Airbags | 9 airbags | 8 airbags |
| Safety Rating | 5-star (ANCAP, Euro NCAP) | 4-star (JNCAP) |
| Sunroof | Dual panoramic sunroofs | Glass roof |
| Driver’s Seat | 12-way electric + massage | 8-way electric |
| Ambient Lighting | 64 colours | 14 colours |
| Tyres | 19-inch ContiSeal (self-repair) | Standard tyres |
| Official Website | MG Motor India |
Pricing Advantage
The MG M9 is priced at ₹73.83 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), while the Toyota Vellfire costs nearly ₹1.45 crore. This massive difference makes the M9 a compelling choice for buyers seeking premium comfort without paying a crore-plus price tag.
Design & Dimensions – Bigger Inside and Out
While the Vellfire is known for its imposing presence, the MG M9 outshines it in size:
- Length: 265mm longer than Vellfire
- Wheelbase: 200mm longer, offering more legroom and cabin space
- Seating: Spacious 7-seater layout designed for extended journeys
The extended wheelbase also improves passenger comfort in the second and third rows, making it a better choice for families or corporate travel.
Safety – Ahead in Protection
Safety is one area where MG has not compromised:
- MG M9: Equipped with 9 airbags (one more than the Vellfire)
- Toyota Vellfire: 8 airbags
- Crash Test Ratings:
- MG M9: 5-star safety rating from Australian NCAP and Euro NCAP
- Toyota Vellfire: 4-star rating from Japanese NCAP
MG’s higher crash test scores and additional airbag coverage make it one of the safest MPVs in the segment.
Luxury Features – Outclassing the Competition
Dual Panoramic Sunroofs
Unlike the Vellfire’s glass roof, the M9 comes with two functional panoramic sunroofs, enhancing cabin brightness and giving passengers a more premium open-air feel.
Premium Seating Comfort
- Driver’s Seat: 12-way electrically adjustable vs. Vellfire’s 8-way
- Massage Function: Available for both front seats in the M9; missing in Vellfire
- Enhanced Passenger Space: Larger cabin volume for better comfort on long journeys
Ambient Lighting
- M9: 64-colour ambient lighting package
- Vellfire: 14-colour ambient lighting
This allows MG M9 owners to customise their cabin mood extensively.
Tyre Technology – ContiSeal for Added Convenience
The M9 uses 19-inch ContiSeal tyres, capable of self-repairing small punctures. This feature reduces roadside breakdown risks and is typically found in high-end European luxury cars – a clear Mercedes-like touch in a more affordable package.
Why MG M9 is a Strong Alternative to Toyota Vellfire
- Price Advantage – Nearly half the price of the Vellfire with more premium features.
- Better Safety – Higher crash test rating and more airbags.
- More Spacious – Longer dimensions and extended wheelbase.
- Premium Comfort – Dual sunroofs, massage seats, advanced lighting.
- Innovative Technology – ContiSeal self-healing tyres.
Potential Rivals in the Market
Besides the Toyota Vellfire, the MG M9 will also face competition from:
- Kia Carnival – Popular for its value-for-money appeal
- Lexus LM – A luxury-focused alternative with a higher price point
- Upcoming Hyundai Staria – If launched in India, it could challenge in the spacious MPV space
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the on-road price of the MG M9 in Mumbai?
A: ₹73.83 lakh.
Q2: How does the MG M9 compare to the Toyota Vellfire in size?
A: The M9 is 265mm longer and has a 200mm longer wheelbase than the Vellfire.
Q3: Which MPV has better safety ratings, MG M9 or Toyota Vellfire?
A: MG M9, with a 5-star ANCAP & Euro NCAP rating vs. Vellfire’s 4-star JNCAP rating.
Q4: Does the MG M9 have more features than the Toyota Vellfire?
A: Yes, it offers more airbags, dual sunroofs, massage seats, 64-colour ambient lighting, and ContiSeal tyres.
Q5: Where can I get more details about the MG M9?
A: Visit MG Motor India for specifications, bookings, and dealership locations.
Conclusion
The MG M9 redefines the luxury MPV experience in India by combining European-inspired comfort, top-tier safety, and generous space at a price that’s nearly half of the Toyota Vellfire. With features like massage seats, dual sunroofs, and ContiSeal tyres, it challenges the notion that premium always means expensive.
For buyers seeking a luxurious, safe, and spacious MPV without crossing the ₹1 crore mark, the MG M9 stands out as a value-packed alternative that may well disrupt the premium MPV segment.
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