MG Hector: Bolder Than It May Look & Smarter Than You Think The MG Hector has created a category of its own in the Indian mid-size SUV segment with its dominating stance, aggressive design language, and impressive value-for-money quotient.
Introduced by Morris Garages (MG) India, Hector is amongst the first connected SUVs in the country and leads in technology with onboard internet and connectivity features aimed at Indian customers.
It was and is big in the cabin, mighty in mains and long in the features how much which means it justifies its continued appeal for those wanting a luxury SUV experience with a dash of accessibility.
Design and Road Appeal
The front grille of the MG Hector is imposing and features the chrome-finished diamond pattern with his LED DRLs above the LED headlamps.
Up front, a chunky front bumper and pseudo skid plates help make the Jolly look more aggressive and SUV-y.
From the side, its high posture, squared-off wheel arches and designer alloy wheels lend it great road ppearance. At the back, modern looking LED tail lamps are linked by a red strip.
MG provides the Hector in a range of colours as also dual-tone shade to entice the youth.
The facelifted versions also receive some minor exterior changes bringing out an even more premium and upmarket look to the SUV.
Spacious Interior and Comfort
On the inside, the Hector is very high on comfort and luxury.
The interior is nicely-appointed, with soft touch materials, plenty of tech, a massive panorama sunroof and a respectable amount of ambient lighting and faux-leather throughout.
It’s the 14-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment system that commands and controls the majority of features from climate control, navigation, and media, to mention a few.
There’s a lot of leg space, and headroom is excellent, particularly in the rear seat, so it’s family-friendly. Boot space should accommodate weekend luggage or hefty shopping trips.
Top versions get features like ventilated front seats, wireless charging and a power tailgate, which push the luxury quotient further.
Technology and Connectivity
MG Hector was the first in India to bring in the idea of internet-enabled car.
It is equipped with i-SMART technology that provides voice commands, control of car features independent of a handset, such as vehicle lock, unlock, headlamp on and off and more.
OTA (Over-the-Air) updates ensure the SUV remains updated as new features are added to the system.
The integration of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features in the newest iterations also improved the safety and driving comfort.
Also now available is a lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine and Performance
Petrol Hector and diesel Hector are both available. The 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine provides a smooth and refined drive,
but the 2.0-litre diesel, borrowed from Fiat’s engine inventory, produces a better torque output and is more suited for long-haul driving.
Transmission is available in the form of a 6-speed manual, CVT for petrol and a 6-speed manual for diesel.
The Hector might not be a driver’s SUV, but it rides well, smooth and quite composed. Underneath, the suspension has a comfort bias and glides over bumps, pot holes and the like.
But in sharp corners there is some body roll thanks to its size and weight.
Pros:
Bold and premium design
Plenty of room and comfortably appointed interior
High-end with next level technology
ADAS and connected car tech Both make life on the road safer and more convenient.
Glass roof and big screen elevate cabin vibe
Cons:
No automatic transmission is available on the diesel engine.
Size makes for un-sporty handing
Infotainment system can be slow
FALTERING The heavier body adds a slight crimp to fuel economy
MG Hector: Final Verdict
For techies who want comfort and space, the MG Hector for now the mid-size UV of choice. It offers a combination of style and substance, with features that out-punch its price.
It may not set enthusiast hearts on fire but for real world urban (and highway) users, the Hector is a fun car offering a great mix of thrill and comfort.