MG Hector Facelift: Old vs New — What’s Really Different
The refreshed MG Hector goes up against rivals like the Tata Harrier and Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700.
MG Motor India has introduced the Hector facelift with a starting price of ₹11.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This marks the second major design refresh for the mid-size SUV since its initial July 2019 debut. Beyond cosmetic updates, the new Hector adds several feature enhancements. Here’s a comprehensive look at everything that’s changed from the outgoing model.
Exterior updates: the bold new face
The most noticeable change is the redesigned front fascia, dominated by a large honeycomb grille finished in chrome. The chrome treatment flows across the front bumper and into the headlamp cluster, giving the SUV a markedly refreshed appearance. The silhouette remains familiar, but MG has fitted newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the LED taillamps and bumper have been redesigned to complete the updated look.
In addition to these styling tweaks, MG has added two new exterior color options: Celadon Blue and Pearl White, joining the existing lineup of Aurora Silver, Starry Black, and Glaze Red.
Interior updates: a refined cabin with smarter software
Inside, the Hector facelift introduces new dual-tone Urban Tan interior trim. There aren’t dramatic changes to the cabin layout, but the emphasis is on software improvements and feature enhancements. The central portrait-style infotainment screen remains a 14-inch unit, but MG promises smoother performance. Notable new interactions include two-finger gestures for HVAC controls and three-finger gestures to change music tracks and adjust volume.
Prices: new value, same core powertrains
All variants of the updated MG Hector, including the 6/7-seater Hector Plus, see a price reduction of ₹1–2 lakh compared with the previous model. Diesel variant prices have not been announced yet.
Hector 5S variants (new vs old prices)
- Style (1.5 Turbo MT): Old ₹13.99 lakh → New ₹11.99 lakh
- Select Pro (1.5 Turbo MT): New variant introduced at ₹13.99 lakh (no direct old price)
- Smart Pro (1.5 Turbo MT): Old ₹16.49 lakh → New ₹14.99 lakh
- Smart Pro (1.5 Turbo CVT): Old ₹17.79 lakh → New ₹16.29 lakh
- Sharp Pro (1.5 Turbo MT): Old ₹18.79 lakh → New ₹16.79 lakh
- Sharp Pro (1.5 Turbo CVT): Old ₹20.09 lakh → New ₹18.09 lakh
- Savvy Pro (1.5 Turbo CVT): Old ₹20.99 lakh → New ₹18.99 lakh
Hector Plus 6S/7S variants (new vs old prices)
- Sharp Pro (MT): Old ₹18.79 lakh → New ₹17.29 lakh
- Sharp Pro (CVT): Old ₹19.59 lakh → New ₹18.59 lakh
- Savvy Pro (CVT): Old ₹21.49 lakh → New ₹19.49 lakh
Powertrain: unchanged under the hood
Mechanically, the Hector and Hector Plus carry over the same engine and gearbox options as before. The petrol lineup uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 143 hp and 250 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT. The diesel variants continue with the Fiat-sourced 2.0-liter engine producing 170 hp and 350 Nm. While the outgoing diesel options were manual-only, it remains to be confirmed whether MG will add an automatic option in the future.
If you’re curious how this facelift stacks up against the competition in real-world driving, consider test-qualifying it against the Tata Harrier, Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700 to see how the refreshed tech and updated styling translate to everyday usability and value.
Note: For related updates and price considerations, you may also explore current market announcements and booking details as they evolve.
