Remember the buzz when the MG Hector first hit the scene with its "Internet Inside" campaign? It really shook things up. But in the fast-paced world of SUVs, keeping that momentum is tough. Now, MG is back with a mid-cycle refresh for the Hector and Hector Plus, and it looks like they're ready to reclaim the spotlight. The new facelift has officially launched, and the headline news is its introductory starting price of just Rs. 11.99 lakh!
Key Highlights
- ✓ Launched with a new, aggressive front grille and redesigned 18-inch alloys.
- ✓ Features a massive 14-inch infotainment screen with new i-Swipe gesture controls.
- ✓ Introductory starting price is Rs. 11.99 lakh, which is Rs. 2 lakh lower than the previous model.
- ✓ Comes equipped with a Level 2 ADAS safety suite, six airbags, and a 360-degree camera.
- ✓ Available in two new colors: Celadon Blue and Pearl White, with a new dual-tone Urban Tan interior.
A Bold New Face for a Familiar SUV
Let's talk about what you'll notice first: the front end. MG has given the Hector a significant cosmetic update, focusing heavily on the grille. It’s a completely revised design, now larger and featuring a honeycomb pattern with hexagonal slats and thick chrome inserts that give it a much more imposing presence on the road. It’s a confident look that aims to stand out in a crowded market.
While the bumpers and the LED headlight module are carried over from the outgoing version, the SUV gets a few other subtle tweaks. You'll find new black wheel arch claddings and redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels, still wrapped in 215/55 section tires. To complete the fresh look, MG has introduced two new color options, Celadon Blue and Pearl White, giving buyers more ways to personalize their ride.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
It’s not just the front that gets attention. While some pre-launch speculation hinted at reworked LED taillamps and a new rear bumper, the official launch confirms the changes are mainly focused on the front grille and alloys. The side claddings and shark-fin antenna remain, preserving the Hector's familiar silhouette while adding just enough novelty to feel new again.
Step Inside: A Tech-Forward Cabin
The interior is where the Hector facelift really doubles down on its tech-savvy reputation. The cabin now sports a sophisticated dual-tone Urban Tan color theme, which feels quite premium. But your eyes will immediately be drawn to the centerpiece: a massive, vertically-oriented 14-inch infotainment screen. This isn't just for show; it's the hub for some clever new features.
MG has introduced all-new i-Swipe touch-based gesture controls. What does that mean? You can control key functions without even touching the screen. A simple two-finger swipe manages the HVAC systems, while a three-finger gesture lets you change music tracks and adjust the volume. It’s a futuristic touch that adds a bit of wow factor to the daily drive.
Comfort and Convenience at Your Fingertips
Beyond the flashy screen, the Hector is packed with creature comforts. It continues to offer features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a digital instrument cluster, and ambient lighting. For audiophiles, the Infinity by Harman sound system is a huge plus. To keep the system snappy, the infotainment also gets a VRAM module that’s expandable up to 10GB, promising faster processing speeds and a smoother user interface.
The Hector remains a versatile choice for families, available in five-, six-, and seven-seat configurations. The standard Hector is a 5-seater, while the Hector Plus offers both 6-seater (with captain seats) and 7-seater layouts. New convenience features like a digital auto key and proximity lock/unlock further enhance the ownership experience.
Under the Hood: Familiar and Reliable Power
When it comes to what powers this SUV, MG has stuck with a proven formula. The facelifted Hector and Hector Plus will continue with the same engine options. The petrol variant is a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 141bhp (or 143 PS) and 250Nm of torque. This engine gives you the choice between a 6-speed manual or a smooth CVT automatic transmission.
For those who prefer diesel, the 2.0-litre diesel engine is also expected to be carried over. This powerhouse churns out 170 PS (about 168bhp) and a hefty 350Nm of torque, making it a great option for highway cruising. However, it's important to note that this engine is paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox. MG has mentioned that all details about the diesel version will be shared later.
Keeping You Safe on the Road
Safety has always been a strong point for the Hector, and this facelift builds on that foundation. The big news here is the inclusion of a Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) suite. This brings a host of intelligent safety features that can help prevent accidents by assisting the driver, which is a massive value-add in this segment.
Alongside ADAS, the Hector is loaded with other safety tech. It comes with six airbags, a 360-degree camera for easy parking, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), and hill hold assist (HHA). All-wheel disc brakes and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold complete a very comprehensive safety package.
Pricing, Trims, and the Competition
Here's the most surprising part of the launch: the price. With an introductory ex-showroom price starting at just Rs. 11.99 lakh, the new Hector is actually Rs. 2 lakh cheaper at the base level than its predecessor. This is an incredibly aggressive move by MG, clearly aimed at grabbing market share from its well-established rivals.
The Hector is available in five trims: Style, Select Pro, Smart Pro, Sharp Pro, and Savvy Pro. This extensive lineup ensures there's a variant for different budgets and needs. With these updates and pricing, the Hector facelift is poised to go head-to-head with some of the most popular SUVs in India, including the Tata Harrier, the upcoming Mahindra XUV 7XO (likely a typo in source, meant XUV700), and the Hyundai Alcazar. For the Hector Plus, the main rival remains the dominant Mahindra XUV700 and the Tata Safari.
Conclusion
So, what's the final word? The MG Hector Facelift is a well-thought-out update that addresses key areas. It's got a bolder look, a seriously impressive tech-filled interior, and a safety suite that punches above its weight. By dropping the starting price, MG isn't just refreshing a model; it's making a powerful statement to the competition. It’s a compelling package designed to recreate the initial buzz and bring the Hector firmly back into the conversation for anyone looking for a feature-packed family SUV.
