MG Hector

MG has refreshed the Hector’s design to give it a more premium and modern appearance. The front end is dominated by a bold mesh grille flanked by split LED DRLs and headlamps that enhance its road presence.

Despite the updates, MG has retained the Hector’s large, imposing silhouette. While the car looks modern and stylish from the front and rear, some buyers might feel that the 18-inch wheels look smaller in comparison to the car’s large frame. The exterior changes are subtle but effective, maintaining the Hector’s strong road presence.

The 2023 MG Hector retains its familiar turbocharged petrol and diesel engine options, both of which provide decent performance for city and highway driving. However, the mild-hybrid option has been discontinued with this facelift.

• Driving Dynamics: Both engine options perform adequately, but the turbocharged petrol engine exhibits some turbo lag at lower RPMs, which may require measured throttle inputs. The diesel engine, on the other hand, offers a more torquey and smoother driving experience, ideal for long-distance driving.
• Transmission: The CVT gearbox in the petrol variant feels smooth in normal driving but exhibits a noticeable rubber-band effect when accelerating aggressively. The 6-speed manual gearbox on both engines remains the preferred option for drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience.

The performance of the Hector is competent, though not overtly sporty. The focus remains on comfort, with power delivery being smooth but not overly aggressive.

The Hector is built as a family SUV, and its ride quality and handling characteristics reflect this focus.

The soft suspension makes the Hector ideal for long highway drives and city commutes, but it struggles when it comes to handling sharp turns and quick maneuvers. The body roll is pronounced, especially when the car is fully loaded with passengers and luggage, but the comfort levels remain excellent on straight road.

Inside, the MG Hector feels premium and spacious. The cabin features significant updates, including an all-new 14-inch touchscreen that dominates the dashboard, and premium materials throughout.

The interior quality feels upmarket, with soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space and airiness in the cabin. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom, and the 6-way adjustable front seats ensure that the driver and front passenger remain comfortable during long journeys.

The MG Hector continues to lead the segment in terms of technology and features. The 14-inch infotainment display is the biggest highlight of the facelift, making it one of the largest screens in its segment.

The MG Assistant voice command system allows for hands-free control of many functions, such as climate control and navigation. The air purifier and 360-degree camera add to the convenience and safety, making daily driving a more enjoyable experience.

Despite its size, the MG Hector delivers respectable fuel efficiency figures, especially with the diesel engine.

The diesel engine remains the more fuel-efficient option, especially for those who frequently drive long distances. The CVT petrol variant, while convenient, offers slightly lower efficiency

One of the key updates in the 2023 MG Hector Facelift is the introduction of Level-2 ADAS, which brings a suite of advanced driver assistance features.

These safety features not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to the overall peace of mind for the passengers. The ADAS system is especially useful on highways, though care must be taken to ensure proper usage on Indian roads.

With prices ranging from ₹14.73 lakh to ₹21.73 lakh, the MG Hector remains a value-for-money option, particularly when compared to similarly equipped competitors.

| Price Range | ₹14.73 lakh - ₹21.73 lakh (ex-showroom) | | Recommended Variant | Sharp Pro Diesel MT for the best balance of features, performance, and economy |

Given its long list of features, spacious cabin, and the option between petrol and diesel engines, the Hector is a compelling choice for buyers looking for a premium SUV without breaking the bank,

The MG Hector competes with other mid-size SUVs like the Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar.

While the Tata Harrier offers a more rugged SUV feel, the Hector stands out for its tech-loaded cabin and smoother driving experience. The XUV700 matches the Hector in terms of features but slightly lags in rear-seat comfort

The 2023 MG Hector Facelift is a well-rounded SUV that combines stylish design, advanced features, and a comfortable interior with a tech-heavy experience. With the added Level-2 ADAS and an upgraded infotainment system, the Hector remains a strong competitor in the mid-size SUV segment. For buyers looking for a feature-rich, spacious SUV, the Hector offers excellent value.