Thinking of buying a new car in India? We know the drill. It is not just about choosing a vehicle; it is about finding the right partner for your family and lifestyle. You are probably weighing in on several crucial factors: how much will it cost to buy and maintain? Is it safe for my loved ones? Does it come with all the latest tech and comfort features? And what about after-sales service from the company? These are all valid questions, and finding a car that ticks all these boxes can be a real challenge. Today, we are taking a close look at a car that aims to address these very concerns: the new MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str. Let us dive deep into what this popular 7-seater SUV offers Indian car buyers.
Main Highlights of the MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str
Engine Specifications
- 1.5L Turbo Petrol Engine: This unit offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. It produces around 141 bhp (brake horsepower) and 250 Nm (Newton meters) of torque. You can choose this with either a smooth 6-speed manual gearbox or a convenient CVT automatic transmission.
- 2.0L Turbo Diesel Engine: For those who love long drives and strong pulling power, the diesel option is fantastic. It generates about 168 bhp and a robust 350 Nm of torque. This engine comes paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Design Overview
The MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str makes a strong statement on the road.
Exterior
- It boasts a bold and muscular design with a prominent chrome grille that immediately grabs attention.
- The sleek DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) are connected, giving it a modern light signature.
- Stylish 18-inch alloy wheels add to its premium appeal and stance.
- The overall look is commanding, giving it a strong road presence that is hard to ignore, perfect for an SUV in India.
Interior
- Step inside and you are greeted by a premium cabin with quality materials and a sophisticated dual-tone theme.
- The dashboard layout is clean and user-friendly, dominated by the massive portrait-style infotainment screen.
- Comfortable seating for seven adults, with the third row best suited for children or short journeys.
- The fit and finish feel well put together, reflecting a modern and luxurious ambiance.
Key Features
- Giant 14-inch HD Portrait Infotainment Screen: This is a segment-leading feature and the centerpiece of the cabin.
- i-SMART Connectivity: Advanced connected car tech with over 75 features, including remote control for AC, lock/unlock, and vehicle status.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration without the need for cables.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Floods the cabin with light, making it feel airy and spacious, a popular feature in India.
- 360-degree Camera with 3D View: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight spots much easier and safer.
- Wireless Phone Charging: Convenient for keeping your devices powered up on the go.
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Allows front passengers to set their preferred temperatures.
- Ventilated Front Seats: A blessing in India's hot climate, keeping you cool and comfortable.
- Powered Driver and Co-driver Seats: Easy adjustment for optimal driving position.
- ADAS Level 2 Features: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and more for enhanced safety and convenience.
What is the Ground Clearance of MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str?
- The MG Hector Plus offers a good ground clearance of 192 mm. This is quite adequate for tackling Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and uneven surfaces, without much worry.
What is the Boot Space of MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str?
- With all three rows up, the boot space is a usable 155 liters.
- Fold down the third row, and it expands significantly to 460 liters, perfect for weekend trips.
- With both second and third rows folded, you get a massive 821 liters, enough for moving large items.
What is the Dimensions of MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str?
- Length: 4700 mm
- Width: 1835 mm
- Height: 1760 mm
- Wheelbase: 2750 mm
Powertrain Options
- As mentioned, you have the choice between a powerful 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine (with Manual or CVT transmission) and a torquey 2.0L Turbo Diesel engine (with Manual transmission). This provides flexibility for different driving preferences and fuel choices.
Safety Features
MG has packed the Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str with a host of safety features:
- Six Airbags (front, side, curtain)
- ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill Hold Control
- All-wheel Disc Brakes
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear Parking Sensors & Camera
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS Level 2) for active safety interventions.
NCAP Rating Table
Currently, the MG Hector Plus 7-seater has not undergone specific crash testing by Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP. While MG places a strong emphasis on safety with features like six airbags and ADAS, a formal rating for this specific model variant is still awaited. We always recommend checking for the latest official ratings as they become available.
Rivals of MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str
In the highly competitive 7-seater SUV segment, the Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str locks horns with some formidable players:
- Mahindra XUV700 (7-seater variants)
- Tata Safari
- Hyundai Alcazar
- Maruti Suzuki Invicto / Toyota Innova Hycross
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Advantages (Pros)
- Feature-Loaded: The Hector Plus is absolutely packed with segment-leading tech, especially that huge 14-inch screen and ADAS.
- Spacious Cabin: Offers generous space for the first two rows, making it comfortable for long journeys.
- Premium Interior: The cabin feels upmarket with good quality materials and a modern design.
- Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned to handle Indian roads well, offering a pliant and comfortable ride.
- Strong Road Presence: Its bold design ensures it stands out.
- Good After-sales Service Network: MG has been expanding its service presence across India.
Disadvantages (Cons)
- Third Row Space: While it is a 7-seater, the third row is better suited for children or short distances, as is common in many SUVs of this class.
- Diesel Engine is Manual Only: No automatic option for the popular diesel engine might deter some buyers.
- No Official NCAP Rating: The lack of a specific crash test rating can be a point of concern for some safety-conscious buyers.
- Fuel Economy: While acceptable, some rivals might offer slightly better mileage, especially in city driving conditions.
- Infotainment Lag: The large screen can sometimes experience minor lags, though updates generally improve this.
Conclusion
The MG Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str emerges as a very compelling option in the bustling 7-seater SUV market in India. It strongly appeals to buyers looking for a vehicle that offers a fantastic blend of cutting-edge technology, luxurious comfort, and a commanding road presence. While some aspects like the third-row space and the lack of a diesel automatic might be minor drawbacks for specific users, its extensive feature list, spacious cabin, and comfortable ride make it a strong contender for families and individuals alike.
If you are in the market for a family SUV that is big on features, comfort, and has a strong presence, the Hector Plus Sharp Pro 7Str is definitely worth a test drive. It brings a lot to the table and could very well be the intelligent choice you are looking for in your next car purchase. Happy driving!