About MG Gloster Black Storm 4x4 7Str

Thinking of buying a new car in India? It's a big decision, isn't it? You're probably weighing factors like your budget, how safe the car is, the monthly maintenance costs, the latest features it offers, and of course, the reliability of the company's service network. Well, if you're in the market for a large, powerful, and feature-packed SUV, then you've likely heard about the MG Gloster. And now, MG Motor India has spiced things up with a bold new variant: the MG Gloster Black Storm 4x4 7Str. This isn't just another big SUV; it's a statement. Let's dive deep and see if this "Black Storm" lives up to its name and is the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 2.0-litre Twin-Turbo Diesel
• Maximum Power: 215.5 PS (around 212 bhp)
• Maximum Torque: 480 Nm
• Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: Shift-on-the-fly 4x4 (Four-Wheel Drive)

Design Overview

Exterior

The Black Storm edition takes the already imposing Gloster and gives it a dramatic, stealthy makeover. Everything that used to be chrome is now blacked-out. This includes the massive front grille, ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors), door handles, roof rails, window surrounds, and even the rear skid plate. Red accents cleverly break up the all-black theme, seen on the brake calipers and subtle inserts on the bumpers. New 19-inch black alloy wheels complete the aggressive stance. It looks truly commanding on the road, turning heads wherever it goes.

Interior

Step inside, and the Black Storm theme continues. The cabin features an all-black interior with sporty red stitching on the steering wheel, seats, and door pads. The premium leatherette upholstery ensures comfort, especially on long journeys. The layout is familiar Gloster – spacious, well-appointed, and designed for seven adults with ease. The fit and finish feel premium, creating a luxurious and robust environment.

Key Features

• Infotainment System: Large 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Connectivity: MG's i-SMART connected car technology with over 75 features
• Sunroof: Panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin feel
• Camera: 360-degree camera with a 3D view for easy parking
• Charging: Wireless phone charging
• Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control with rear AC vents
• Seats: Powered driver seat with massage function and memory function
• ADAS: Level 1 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
• Other Features: Hands-free tailgate, ambient lighting, PM 2.5 air filter

What is the Ground Clearance of MG Gloster Black Storm?

• Ground Clearance: 210 mm

What is the Boot Space of MG Gloster Black Storm?

• Boot Space (All seats up): 343 litres
• Boot Space (2nd & 3rd row folded): Expands significantly for massive cargo capacity

What are the Dimensions of MG Gloster Black Storm?

• Length: 4985 mm
• Width: 1926 mm
• Height: 1867 mm
• Wheelbase: 2950 mm

Powertrain Options

The Gloster Black Storm edition comes exclusively with the more powerful 2.0-litre Twin-Turbo Diesel engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a robust 4x4 system. This ensures excellent performance both on and off the road, making it a true adventurer's choice.

Safety Features

MG has loaded the Gloster Black Storm with a comprehensive suite of safety features:

• 6 Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Hill Descent Control (HDC)
• Driver Fatigue Reminder System
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) features like:
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
• Adaptive Cruise Control

NCAP Rating Table

As of now, the MG Gloster has not been tested by Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP for the Indian market. Therefore, an official safety rating is not available. However, its comprehensive safety features and robust build suggest a strong focus on passenger protection.

Rivals of MG Gloster Black Storm 4x4 7Str

The MG Gloster Black Storm competes in the full-size SUV segment against some well-established players:

• Toyota Fortuner
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Jeep Meridian
• Isuzu MU-X

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros (Advantages)

• Massive Road Presence: The Gloster Black Storm looks imposing and commands respect on the road.
• Spacious & Comfortable Cabin: Excellent legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it ideal for long journeys with family.
• Feature-Loaded: Packed with premium features like ADAS, a large infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, and powered seats.
• Powerful Diesel Engine: The 2.0 Twin-Turbo diesel offers strong performance and ample torque for highway cruising and off-roading.
• Off-road Capability: The 4x4 system with various terrain modes makes it competent for mild to moderate off-roading adventures.
• Refined Ride Quality: Soaks up bumps well, offering a comfortable ride even on rough Indian roads.

Cons (Disadvantages)

• Fuel Efficiency: Being a large, heavy 4x4 SUV with a powerful engine, fuel economy won't be its strongest suit.
• Sheer Size: Its huge dimensions can make it challenging to maneuver and park in congested city traffic or tight spaces.
• Brand Perception: While MG is growing, it still faces stiff competition from established players like Toyota in terms of long-term reliability perception and resale value.
• Steering Feel: The steering can feel a bit light at higher speeds, which some drivers might prefer to be heavier for more feedback.
• No NCAP Rating: The absence of an official NCAP crash test rating might be a concern for some safety-conscious buyers.

Conclusion

The MG Gloster Black Storm 4x4 7Str is undoubtedly a compelling package for anyone looking for a full-size SUV that stands out. It offers a unique blend of muscular design, a truly luxurious and feature-rich interior, and strong performance, all at a competitive price point in its segment. If your priorities are space, comfort, advanced technology, and a powerful engine with genuine 4x4 capability – and you appreciate a bold, dark aesthetic – then the Gloster Black Storm deserves a serious look. While it faces tough competition and has a few minor drawbacks like its size in urban settings and moderate fuel efficiency, its advantages far outweigh them for the right buyer. It's a capable, comfortable, and commanding SUV that brings a lot to the table for Indian families and adventurers alike. Go ahead, take a test drive and experience the Black Storm for yourself!