MG Majestor review, first drive: Taking on the Toyota Fortuner head on
MG is all set to take on the Toyota Fortuner with the Majestor SUV. We tried it out on and off the road to see how it does and whether it can become a segment dominator.
Let’s begin with something rather odd! Generally, manufacturers talk about luxury, features, etc while launching a new product. MG on the other hand is talking about how tough the Majestor is and not just that, its prowess off the road! So to give us a taster, the company gave us the SUV on an off-road course and let us loose. But before we delve into all of that, let us take you through the Majestor’s design.
MG Majestor: Designed to intimidate
At first glance, the MG Majestor looks enormous — and that impression is entirely justified. Measuring 5,046mm in length, 2,016mm in width, and 1,870mm in height, with a substantial 2,950mm wheelbase, it has an undeniable road presence. MG claims it is the largest SUV in the D-segment, and from what we observed, there is little reason to question that.
Its commanding proportions are matched by equally bold styling. The upright, boxy front fascia is dominated by an oversized grille, flanked by multiple LED daytime running lights. The sleek headlamps feature a distinctive triple-LED setup on either side, while the skid plates further enhance its rugged character. In the rear-view mirror of surrounding traffic, this imposing front end is likely to be an intimidating sight.
From the side, the Majestor’s sheer size is highlighted by muscular wheel arches and 18-inch alloy wheels. Our test vehicle was fitted with all-terrain tyres, which will be offered as an optional extra. The large ORVMs do more than provide rear visibility, integrating additional functions as well. With a ground clearance of 219mm, along with favourable approach and departure angles, the Majestor appears well prepared for off-road duties.
At the rear, the SUV continues its bold design theme with a connected tail-light bar and prominent ‘MAJESTOR’ lettering stretched across the tailgate. Skid plates are present here too, while the twin exhaust finishers neatly conceal the actual twin tailpipes — a restrained touch in an otherwise unapologetically imposing design.
MG Majestor: Front space and features explained
Getting into the MG Majestor is hassle-free, thanks to the integrated side step, while well-placed grab handles make the climb even easier. Once seated behind the wheel, the SUV’s sheer size becomes immediately apparent. The long, expansive bonnet dominates your view ahead, yet outward visibility remains impressively clear, giving the driver a strong sense of command.
The cabin mirrors the exterior’s scale. A large dashboard houses a 12.3-inch infotainment system that manages a wide range of functions, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-speaker JBL sound system, and various connected car features. Complementing this is a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information in a clean, modern layout. Material quality across the upper dashboard feels premium, though the lower sections don’t quite match up to the same standard.
The centre console features a practical two-tier design. The lower section is primarily reserved for storage, while the upper layer includes dual wireless charging pads along with a set of tactile knobs and buttons to control off-road functions such as differential locks, terrain modes, and crawl control—features we’ll explore in more detail shortly. The central armrest doubles as a cooled storage compartment, adding to everyday convenience.
Up front, the driver’s seat enhances comfort with ventilation and a massage function, making long drives particularly enjoyable and reinforcing the Majestor’s focus on both luxury and capability.
MG Majestor: Rear section, boot and features explained
The Majestor will be offered in two seating configurations: a 2+3+2 layout with a middle bench seat, and a 2+2+2 setup featuring captain seats in the second row—like the one we experienced. Getting in and out is convenient, thanks to the wide-opening rear doors, a sturdy side step, and well-placed grab handles. The rear seats offer decent adjustability, making them comfortable for a range of occupants.
The centre console is thoughtfully designed, housing a digital display for climate control along with a plug point—an especially practical addition. USB and Type-C charging ports are included as well. Access to the third row in the captain-seat variant is easiest through the gap between the middle seats, though the last row is still best suited for children or shorter journeys.
Boot space is quite versatile. MG claims capacity ranges from 343 litres to a substantial 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded. However, this maximum figure is measured up to the roof, so loading all the way to the top isn’t always practical. The tailgate adds to the convenience by being electrically operated and also supporting hands-free access via a foot gesture.
MG Majestor: Engine, gearbox, off-road treats
While many manufacturers are rapidly shifting toward hybrids and petrol powertrains, MG has taken a different route with the Majestor by equipping it with a big and burly 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine. It produces 215bhp and a formidable 478Nm of torque—figures that underline its strong, workhorse character. Power is delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which also offers manual control via paddle shifters.
When it comes to off-road capability, the Majestor is impressively equipped. It features an electronic 4WD system with both high and low range options, along with three electronically controlled differential locks. There are 10 terrain modes to tackle a variety of conditions, complemented by three standard drive modes. MG has also included a Crawl Control function, allowing the vehicle to manage tricky terrain autonomously while the driver focuses solely on steering. Rounding things off are three selectable steering modes, giving drivers added flexibility depending on driving conditions and preferences.
MG Majestor: Driving the behemoth on the road
Thankfully, visibility all around is excellent. The extremities of this large SUV are easy to judge, making tight turns far less intimidating than expected. Complementing this is the steering, which feels impressively light and effortless—even during full lock-to-lock maneuvers.
Out on the open road, the Majestor settles into its element. It feels confident and delivers a strong sense of command behind the wheel. The engine produces ample torque, allowing the SUV to surge forward eagerly at the slightest press of the accelerator. 80kmph comes up with ease, and beyond that, it transitions into a relaxed cruiser.
Switching steering modes adds to the driving experience. At higher speeds, the steering gains weight, improving feedback and stability. That said, this isn’t a corner-carving machine—but credit to MG for making it as composed and precise as possible for its size.
Engaging Sport mode livens things up further. The SUV feels noticeably more responsive, with the gearbox holding onto gears longer to deliver stronger acceleration. Its high-speed cruising ability is particularly impressive. While some road noise does filter into the cabin, the insulated glass does a commendable job of keeping it in check.
In essence, this large SUV feels perfectly suited for long, effortless drives on India’s modern expressways, and it’s bound to make those journeys thoroughly enjoyable.
MG Majestor: When the road runs out
The fun actually begins when the road runs out. Gravel tracks and patches don’t even bother the Majestor and the suspension irons out with ease. Body roll, too, is kept in check around corners. The only thing one can experience is a bit of road noise.
On the track, we tried the Crawl Control function and the SUV just climbed up the mounds with ease. The plethora of cameras beaming through the infotainment system adds to the ease of taking on these challenges. What is best, is the way the SUV goes downhill under CCO. It comes down gently and always seems to be in control and not like a runaway train.
We also put it through a few axle benders and the SUV took that in its stride as well while becoming a tripod. Massive wheel lifts and crashing down into obstacles do not bother the Majestor as well.
The only thing we did not try was mud! That would have been interesting to see as the Majestor is a heavy vehicle. Maybe when we get it for a test.
MG Majestor: Verdict
We are pretty impressed with what MG has done with the Majestor. It replaces the Gloster and has a clear purpose for existing. It offers intimidating looks, lot of features and most importantly, the brute of an engine. Last but not the least, it can go anywhere and take your extended family along too. Now price it right and the Majestor could well be a game changer.
Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
Let’s begin with something rather odd! Generally, manufacturers talk about luxury, features, etc while launching a new product. MG on the other hand is talking about how tough the Majestor is and not just that, its prowess off the road! So to give us a taster, the company gave us the SUV on an off-road course and let us loose. But before we delve into all of that, let us take you through the Majestor’s design.
MG Majestor: Designed to intimidate
At first glance, the MG Majestor looks enormous — and that impression is entirely justified. Measuring 5,046mm in length, 2,016mm in width, and 1,870mm in height, with a substantial 2,950mm wheelbase, it has an undeniable road presence. MG claims it is the largest SUV in the D-segment, and from what we observed, there is little reason to question that.
Its commanding proportions are matched by equally bold styling. The upright, boxy front fascia is dominated by an oversized grille, flanked by multiple LED daytime running lights. The sleek headlamps feature a distinctive triple-LED setup on either side, while the skid plates further enhance its rugged character. In the rear-view mirror of surrounding traffic, this imposing front end is likely to be an intimidating sight.
From the side, the Majestor’s sheer size is highlighted by muscular wheel arches and 18-inch alloy wheels. Our test vehicle was fitted with all-terrain tyres, which will be offered as an optional extra. The large ORVMs do more than provide rear visibility, integrating additional functions as well. With a ground clearance of 219mm, along with favourable approach and departure angles, the Majestor appears well prepared for off-road duties.
At the rear, the SUV continues its bold design theme with a connected tail-light bar and prominent ‘MAJESTOR’ lettering stretched across the tailgate. Skid plates are present here too, while the twin exhaust finishers neatly conceal the actual twin tailpipes — a restrained touch in an otherwise unapologetically imposing design.
MG Majestor: Front space and features explained
Getting into the MG Majestor is hassle-free, thanks to the integrated side step, while well-placed grab handles make the climb even easier. Once seated behind the wheel, the SUV’s sheer size becomes immediately apparent. The long, expansive bonnet dominates your view ahead, yet outward visibility remains impressively clear, giving the driver a strong sense of command.
The cabin mirrors the exterior’s scale. A large dashboard houses a 12.3-inch infotainment system that manages a wide range of functions, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-speaker JBL sound system, and various connected car features. Complementing this is a fully digital instrument cluster that displays a wealth of information in a clean, modern layout. Material quality across the upper dashboard feels premium, though the lower sections don’t quite match up to the same standard.
The centre console features a practical two-tier design. The lower section is primarily reserved for storage, while the upper layer includes dual wireless charging pads along with a set of tactile knobs and buttons to control off-road functions such as differential locks, terrain modes, and crawl control—features we’ll explore in more detail shortly. The central armrest doubles as a cooled storage compartment, adding to everyday convenience.
Up front, the driver’s seat enhances comfort with ventilation and a massage function, making long drives particularly enjoyable and reinforcing the Majestor’s focus on both luxury and capability.
MG Majestor: Rear section, boot and features explained
The Majestor will be offered in two seating configurations: a 2+3+2 layout with a middle bench seat, and a 2+2+2 setup featuring captain seats in the second row—like the one we experienced. Getting in and out is convenient, thanks to the wide-opening rear doors, a sturdy side step, and well-placed grab handles. The rear seats offer decent adjustability, making them comfortable for a range of occupants.
The centre console is thoughtfully designed, housing a digital display for climate control along with a plug point—an especially practical addition. USB and Type-C charging ports are included as well. Access to the third row in the captain-seat variant is easiest through the gap between the middle seats, though the last row is still best suited for children or shorter journeys.
Boot space is quite versatile. MG claims capacity ranges from 343 litres to a substantial 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded. However, this maximum figure is measured up to the roof, so loading all the way to the top isn’t always practical. The tailgate adds to the convenience by being electrically operated and also supporting hands-free access via a foot gesture.
MG Majestor: Engine, gearbox, off-road treats
While many manufacturers are rapidly shifting toward hybrids and petrol powertrains, MG has taken a different route with the Majestor by equipping it with a big and burly 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine. It produces 215bhp and a formidable 478Nm of torque—figures that underline its strong, workhorse character. Power is delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which also offers manual control via paddle shifters.
When it comes to off-road capability, the Majestor is impressively equipped. It features an electronic 4WD system with both high and low range options, along with three electronically controlled differential locks. There are 10 terrain modes to tackle a variety of conditions, complemented by three standard drive modes. MG has also included a Crawl Control function, allowing the vehicle to manage tricky terrain autonomously while the driver focuses solely on steering. Rounding things off are three selectable steering modes, giving drivers added flexibility depending on driving conditions and preferences.
MG Majestor: Driving the behemoth on the road
Thankfully, visibility all around is excellent. The extremities of this large SUV are easy to judge, making tight turns far less intimidating than expected. Complementing this is the steering, which feels impressively light and effortless—even during full lock-to-lock maneuvers.
Out on the open road, the Majestor settles into its element. It feels confident and delivers a strong sense of command behind the wheel. The engine produces ample torque, allowing the SUV to surge forward eagerly at the slightest press of the accelerator. 80kmph comes up with ease, and beyond that, it transitions into a relaxed cruiser.
Switching steering modes adds to the driving experience. At higher speeds, the steering gains weight, improving feedback and stability. That said, this isn’t a corner-carving machine—but credit to MG for making it as composed and precise as possible for its size.
Engaging Sport mode livens things up further. The SUV feels noticeably more responsive, with the gearbox holding onto gears longer to deliver stronger acceleration. Its high-speed cruising ability is particularly impressive. While some road noise does filter into the cabin, the insulated glass does a commendable job of keeping it in check.
In essence, this large SUV feels perfectly suited for long, effortless drives on India’s modern expressways, and it’s bound to make those journeys thoroughly enjoyable.
MG Majestor: When the road runs out
The fun actually begins when the road runs out. Gravel tracks and patches don’t even bother the Majestor and the suspension irons out with ease. Body roll, too, is kept in check around corners. The only thing one can experience is a bit of road noise.
On the track, we tried the Crawl Control function and the SUV just climbed up the mounds with ease. The plethora of cameras beaming through the infotainment system adds to the ease of taking on these challenges. What is best, is the way the SUV goes downhill under CCO. It comes down gently and always seems to be in control and not like a runaway train.
We also put it through a few axle benders and the SUV took that in its stride as well while becoming a tripod. Massive wheel lifts and crashing down into obstacles do not bother the Majestor as well.
The only thing we did not try was mud! That would have been interesting to see as the Majestor is a heavy vehicle. Maybe when we get it for a test.
MG Majestor: Verdict
We are pretty impressed with what MG has done with the Majestor. It replaces the Gloster and has a clear purpose for existing. It offers intimidating looks, lot of features and most importantly, the brute of an engine. Last but not the least, it can go anywhere and take your extended family along too. Now price it right and the Majestor could well be a game changer.
Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
