MG Hector

Looking for a new car in India? It's a big decision, right? You're probably juggling thoughts on budget, family safety, monthly maintenance, the latest features, and reliable company service. Well, today, we're taking a close look at an SUV that has truly made its mark: the new MG Hector. Let's see if this 'Internet Inside' marvel ticks all your boxes.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The MG Hector offers two robust engine options:

• 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol Engine: Delivers 143 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque. Ideal for responsive city and highway drives.
• 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel Engine: Generates 170 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque, offering strong performance, shared with other popular SUVs.

Design Overview

The Hector continues its legacy of bold design, inside and out.

• Exterior: Features a striking, massive grille upfront and a distinctive split headlamp design with sleek LED DRLs. The rear boasts modern connected LED taillamps. Its commanding stance ensures a strong road presence.
• Interior: Step into a spacious and premium cabin. High-quality soft-touch materials adorn the dashboard. The seats offer excellent comfort and support, with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers.

Key Features

The Hector is loaded with technology and comfort features:

• Giant 14-inch HD Portrait Infotainment Screen
• i-SMART Connected Car Technology (75+ features, including remote control, voice commands)
• Panoramic Sunroof
• 360-degree Camera for easy parking
• Wireless Phone Charging
• Ventilated Front Seats (on select variants)
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Powered Driver and Co-Driver Seats
• Ambient Lighting
• Digital Instrument Cluster

What is the Ground Clearance of

The MG Hector offers a good ground clearance of 192 mm. This helps confidently navigate Indian roads and tackle speed breakers.

What is the Boot Space of

With a generous boot space of 587 litres, the Hector provides ample room for all your luggage, making it perfect for family trips.

What is the Dimensions of

The Hector's impressive size contributes to its spacious cabin and road presence:

• Length: 4699 mm
• Width: 1835 mm
• Height: 1760 mm
• Wheelbase: 2750 mm

Powertrain Options

How the power is delivered:

• 1.5-litre Turbo Petrol: Available with a 6-speed manual or a smooth CVT automatic transmission, great for city driving.
• 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel: Exclusively paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, known for its robust pulling power.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the Hector:

• Up to 6 Airbags (Dual front airbags standard)
• ABS with EBD
• ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
• TCS (Traction Control System)
• Hill Hold Control
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) Level 2: Top variants include Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and High Beam Assist.

NCAP Rating Table

The MG Hector's crash safety ratings are a key consideration:

Rating Type	Rating (Stars)	Notes
Bharat NCAP	Not Rated	As of May 2024, the MG Hector has not been tested by Bharat NCAP.
Global NCAP	Not Rated	The MG Hector has not undergone independent crash testing by Global NCAP.

While an independent rating is pending, MG has equipped the Hector with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features, including advanced ADAS.

Rivals of MG Hector

The MG Hector competes fiercely with popular SUVs in India, including:

• Tata Harrier
• Mahindra XUV700 (5-seater)
• Hyundai Creta (top-end)
• Kia Seltos (top-end)
• Jeep Compass

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Here's a balanced look at the MG Hector's ownership experience:

Pros:

• Commanding Road Presence: Stands out with its bold and distinctive design.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Huge touchscreen, connected tech, panoramic sunroof offer a premium feel.
• Spacious & Comfortable: Excellent interior room for passengers and generous boot space.
• Smooth Petrol-CVT: Offers a relaxed and convenient driving experience, especially in traffic.
• Advanced Safety: Level 2 ADAS on higher variants provides enhanced safety and convenience.
• Value for Money: Offers a strong package of features and space for its price.

Cons:

• Diesel Only Manual: No automatic option for the diesel engine.
• CVT Performance: While smooth, the CVT may not appeal to those seeking spirited acceleration.
• No AWD/4x4: Limits its capability for serious off-road adventures.
• No Official NCAP Rating: A concern for some safety-focused buyers awaiting independent validation.

Conclusion

The new MG Hector remains a very compelling choice in the Indian SUV market. It brings an attractive combination of bold design, a feature-packed and premium cabin, and a spacious, comfortable ride. If you're looking for a family SUV that excels in features, comfort, and presence, the Hector should definitely be on your shortlist. It's a strong value proposition for modern Indian families. We highly recommend a test drive to experience the 'Internet Inside' yourself!