The MG Hector has been a prominent name in India’s SUV market since its launch. Competing with heavyweights like Tata Harrier, Hyundai Creta, and Mahindra XUV700, the Hector promises luxury, advanced features, and sheer comfort.
The Positives of the MG Hector
1. Spacious and Comfortable Interior
The MG Hector sets itself apart with its cavernous interior and premium comfort. Its expansive cabin offers unmatched headroom, legroom, and elbow room, comfortably seating five adults. Premium touches like ventilated, electrically adjustable leatherette seats and reclining rear-seat functionality add to its comfort.
- Ample boot space with 587 liters of capacity, perfect for long trips.
- Features like the panoramic sunroof and captain seats (in the Hector Plus variant) enhance its airy feel.
2. Packed with Features
The Hector is one of the most feature-rich SUVs in its class. The flagship 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system is complemented by MG’s iSmart connected car tech, offering app-based controls and voice commands.
- High-tech additions include:
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- A comprehensive Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), which offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
- A 360-degree camera for easier parking.
- Over-the-air software updates to keep the system fresh.
- A premium 8-speaker Infinity audio system and PM 2.5 air purifier add extra layers of convenience and luxury.
3. Cushy Ride Quality
Navigating Indian roads often demands cars that prioritize suspension and ride quality. The MG Hector handles low-speed bumps and potholes exceptionally well, delivering a smooth and cushioned ride for both drivers and passengers. It’s perfect for everyday urban commutes and laid-back drives.
The Challenges of Owning the MG Hector
1. Poor Fuel Efficiency
If mileage is high on your priority list, the Hector’s petrol models might disappoint. The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine provides single-digit mileage figures in city driving conditions.
- Real-world fuel efficiency:
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- Petrol-engine city average: 7-8 km/l.
- Highway stretches: 9-10 km/l.
Although the diesel variant offers better mileage, the missing diesel-automatic transmission is a drawback.
2. Unengaging Driving Dynamics
The Hector’s focus on comfort comes at the cost of driving excitement. High-speed handling isn’t its strongest suit, with noticeable body roll during quick cornering and a lack of steering feedback. While it’s smooth for city use, enthusiastic drivers might find it underwhelming on sharp bends or the highway.
3. Touchscreen Troubles
Despite its generous 14-inch size, the infotainment screen suffers from practical usability issues such as input lag and the lack of physical controls for climate settings. For a car that promises modern tech conveniences, these quirks can feel frustrating during daily use.
Engine and Transmission Options
Petrol Models:
- 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine:
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- Power output: 143 hp, Torque: 250 Nm
- Gearbox options include a 6-speed manual or an 8-step CVT.
Diesel Model:
- 2.0-liter diesel engine:
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- Power output: 170 hp, Torque: 350 Nm
- Paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox (no automatic option).
While the petrol-CVT combination is smooth, the diesel model is more robust for long-distance driving but limits convenience with its manual-only format.
Safety and Technology
One key highlight of the MG Hector is its comprehensive safety suite:
- Six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control come as standard on higher trims.
- Level 2 ADAS features give it an edge over many competitors. Traffic Jam Assist, Bend Cruise Assistance, and lane departure warnings redefine safety for modern SUVs.
The 5-star GNCAP safety rating adds peace of mind for families.
Price Range and Value
The MG Hector is priced between ₹14.25 lakh and ₹22.57 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an appealing option in the premium SUV space. Its price-to-feature ratio, combined with standout comfort and technology, caters well to families seeking space and convenience.
Who Should Consider the MG Hector?
The Hector is an excellent choice for mid to large-sized families prioritizing comfort, modern features, and road presence. Chauffeur-driven executives will appreciate its plush seating and luxury-feel interiors. On the flip side, enthusiasts searching for spirited driving performance or those with mileage concerns might need to look elsewhere.
FAQs About MG HECTOR
1. Is the MG Hector a good family car?
A. Yes, the MG Hector is an excellent family car due to its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and comfortable seating for long journeys.
2. What is the fuel efficiency of the MG Hector?
A. The fuel efficiency of the MG Hector depends on the variant. The petrol variant offers around 14-15 km/l, while the diesel variant typically provides 17-18 km/l under standard driving conditions.
3. Does the MG Hector come with advanced technology features?
A. Absolutely. The MG Hector is packed with cutting-edge features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, connected car technology, voice commands, and a digital instrument cluster.
4. Are MG Hector’s maintenance costs high?
A. MG offers competitive maintenance packages, and the costs are relatively moderate compared to other SUVs in the same segment.
5. How does the MG Hector perform off-road?
A. While the MG Hector is great for city drives and highways, it is not designed as a hardcore off-road vehicle. It performs best on well-paved surfaces and light terrains.
Final Thoughts
The MG Hector is more than just another SUV. With its feature-packed offerings, spacious interiors, and advanced technology, it’s a strong contender in the segment. However, its low fuel efficiency and driving dynamics leave room for improvement.
Still undecided?
If you crave comfort, tech, and style in your ride, the Hector could be your next perfect road companion. Head over to an MG dealership for a test drive to experience it firsthand!
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