The MG Hector Plus, a prominent offering from MG Motor India, stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering feature-rich, spacious, and technologically advanced SUVs tailored for the Indian market. Launched as an extension of the highly successful MG Hector, the Hector Plus brings additional seating options and refined styling to cater to larger families and those seeking a premium driving experience. Introduced initially in 2020, this three-row SUV has undergone updates to keep pace with evolving consumer demands, blending modern design, cutting-edge technology, and robust performance. Manufactured by MG Motor, a subsidiary of China’s SAIC Motor, the Hector Plus is designed to compete in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment in India, where it goes head-to-head with established players like the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, and Toyota Innova Crysta.
The Hector Plus is more than just an elongated version of the Hector—it’s a vehicle crafted to offer versatility, comfort, and a premium feel. Available in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations, it appeals to buyers looking for a practical yet luxurious option for family outings or long road trips. With its bold exterior, plush interiors, and a suite of advanced features like Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), the MG Hector Plus has carved a niche for itself. This detailed product overview dives into its technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of its features, strengths, and how it stacks up against its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The MG Hector Plus comes equipped with two engine options—a 1.5L turbocharged petrol and a 2.0L diesel—both compliant with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications in a tabular format, sourced from reliable platforms like CarDekho, Zigwheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
| Specification | 1.5L Turbocharged Petrol | 2.0L Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Turbocharged Intercooled Petrol | Turbocharged Diesel |
| Displacement | 1451 cc | 1956 cc |
| Max Power | 141 bhp @ 5000 rpm | 168 bhp @ 3750 rpm |
| Max Torque | 250 Nm @ 1600-3600 rpm | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm |
| No. of Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI Claimed) | 13.79 kmpl (MT) / 12.34 kmpl (CVT) | 15.58 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 Litres | 60 Litres |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 4699 mm x 1835 mm x 1760 mm | 4699 mm x 1835 mm x 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 192 mm | 192 mm |
| Boot Space | 155 Litres (all seats up) / 587 Litres (3rd row folded) | 155 Litres (all seats up) / 587 Litres (3rd row folded) |
| Kerb Weight | 1610-1690 kg (depending on variant) | 1710-1790 kg (depending on variant) |
| Tyre Size | 215/60 R17 or 215/55 R18 | 215/60 R17 or 215/55 R18 |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Stabilizer Bar | MacPherson Strut with Stabilizer Bar |
| Suspension (Rear) | Semi-Independent Helical Spring Torsion Beam | Semi-Independent Helical Spring Torsion Beam |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Disc | Disc / Disc |
These specifications highlight the Hector Plus’s capability to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and practicality, making it suitable for both urban commutes and highway cruising.
Variants
The MG Hector Plus is offered in a variety of trims to cater to diverse customer preferences, ranging from entry-level models to fully loaded variants with premium features. Below is a table listing the key variants available as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| Variant | Seating Configuration | Engine & Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Style | 7-Seater | Diesel MT | LED Headlamps, 10.4-inch Infotainment, ABS |
| Shine Pro | 7-Seater | Petrol MT / Diesel MT | 14-inch Touchscreen, Rear AC Vents, Cruise Control |
| Select Pro | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol MT / CVT / Diesel MT | Panoramic Sunroof, Wireless Charging, 360 Camera |
| Smart Pro | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol MT / Diesel MT | Ventilated Seats, Infinity Sound System, ADAS |
| Sharp Pro | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol MT / CVT / Diesel MT | Level 2 ADAS, Powered Tailgate, Premium Interiors |
| Savvy Pro | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol CVT | Top-spec Features, Dual-tone Interiors, ADAS |
| Blackstorm Edition | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol CVT / Diesel MT | All-Black Exterior, Red Accents, Unique Styling |
| Snowstorm Edition | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol CVT / Diesel MT | White-Black Dual-tone, Red Highlights |
| 100-Year Limited Edition | 6 or 7-Seater | Petrol CVT / Diesel MT | Exclusive Green Color, Commemorative Badging |
These variants offer flexibility in terms of seating, powertrain options, and feature sets, allowing buyers to choose based on their budget and requirements.
Price in Metro Cities
The pricing of the MG Hector Plus varies across metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom prices, RTO charges, insurance, and additional taxes. Below is a table showcasing the on-road prices (approximate) in key metro cities as of March 2025, sourced from CarDekho and CarWale.
| Variant | Delhi (On-Road) | Mumbai (On-Road) | Bangalore (On-Road) | Chennai (On-Road) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Style 7 Str Diesel | ₹20.83 Lakh | ₹21.46 Lakh | ₹21.80 Lakh | ₹21.60 Lakh |
| Select Pro CVT 7 Str | ₹22.74 Lakh | ₹23.40 Lakh | ₹23.75 Lakh | ₹23.55 Lakh |
| Sharp Pro Diesel 7 Str | ₹25.80 Lakh | ₹26.50 Lakh | ₹26.90 Lakh | ₹26.70 Lakh |
| Savvy Pro CVT 6 Str | ₹27.04 Lakh | ₹27.80 Lakh | ₹28.20 Lakh | ₹28.00 Lakh |
| Blackstorm Diesel 7 Str | ₹27.37 Lakh | ₹28.15 Lakh | ₹28.55 Lakh | ₹28.35 Lakh |
Note: Prices are indicative and subject to change based on dealership offers, discounts, and local taxes. Always verify with an authorized MG dealer for the latest pricing.
About the MG Hector Plus
Design and Styling
The MG Hector Plus exudes a commanding road presence with its bold and muscular design. Measuring 4699 mm in length, 1835 mm in width, and 1760 mm in height, it’s slightly longer than the standard Hector to accommodate the third row. The front fascia features a large chrome grille with diamond-shaped elements, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and daytime running lights (DRLs), giving it a premium and aggressive look. The 18-inch alloy wheels enhance its stance, while the connected LED tail lamps at the rear add a modern touch. Special editions like the Blackstorm and Snowstorm bring unique styling cues, such as all-black exteriors with red accents or dual-tone white-black finishes, appealing to buyers seeking exclusivity.
Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and practicality. The 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system dominates the dashboard, offering a sleek, floating design that elevates the premium quotient. The dual-tone brown and black interiors, paired with wooden inserts, create a plush environment, particularly in the 6-seater version with captain seats. The panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and 8-colour ambient lighting further enhance the experience, making it a standout in its segment.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Hector Plus offers two powertrain options to suit different driving preferences. The 1.5L turbo-petrol engine, producing 141 bhp and 250 Nm, is available with a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission. It delivers smooth power delivery and is well-suited for city driving, though it lacks the outright punch for spirited performance. Fuel efficiency hovers around 12-14 kmpl, which may deter buyers with high running costs in mind. The CVT gearbox ensures a refined experience but exhibits a rubberband effect under hard acceleration, making it less engaging for enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the 2.0L diesel engine, churning out 168 bhp and 350 Nm, is the more powerful and efficient option, with an ARAI-claimed mileage of 15.58 kmpl. Paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual, it offers strong mid-range torque, making it ideal for highway cruising and overtaking. However, the absence of an automatic option limits its appeal for buyers seeking convenience. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbs bumps well but results in noticeable body roll around corners, indicating that the Hector Plus prioritizes ride quality over sharp handling.
Features and Technology
The MG Hector Plus is a tech-laden SUV, boasting a long list of features that set it apart. The 14-inch HD touchscreen supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MG’s i-SMART connected car technology, offering remote start, geofencing, and over-the-air updates. Higher variants include Level 2 ADAS, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety and convenience. Other highlights include a 7-inch digital driver’s display, wireless charging, a powered tailgate, and an Infinity premium sound system.
Safety is well-covered with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. However, the Hector Plus has not been crash-tested by Global or Bharat NCAP, leaving its safety credentials unverified officially.
Comfort and Practicality
The Hector Plus shines in terms of space and comfort, particularly for the first two rows. The front seats are well-cushioned and ventilated, while the middle row—available as a bench or captain seats—offers generous legroom and headroom, even for tall occupants. The third row, however, is best suited for children or short journeys due to limited legroom and a steep backrest. With all seats up, boot space is a modest 155 litres, but folding the third row expands it to a cavernous 587 litres, making it practical for luggage-laden trips.
The 2750 mm wheelbase ensures a spacious cabin, and the high ground clearance of 192 mm allows it to tackle rough roads with ease. Features like rear AC vents, automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof add to passenger comfort, making it an excellent choice for family-oriented buyers.
Ownership Experience
MG Motor India offers a comprehensive ownership package with the Hector Plus, including a 3-year/unlimited km warranty as standard, extendable up to 5 years. Scheduled maintenance is required every 10,000 km or 1 year for petrol variants and 15,000 km or 1 year for diesel, keeping running costs manageable. The brand’s growing network of dealerships and service centers ensures decent after-sales support, though some buyers have reported inconsistencies in service quality.
Color Options and Special Editions
The Hector Plus is available in six single-tone colors—Havana Grey, Candy White, Glaze Red, Aurora Silver, Starry Black, and Dune Brown—along with a dual-tone White & Black option. Special editions like the Blackstorm (all-black with red accents), Snowstorm (white-black with red highlights), and 100-Year Limited Edition (unique green shade) add flair and exclusivity, catering to buyers who want a standout vehicle.
Close Competitors
The MG Hector Plus operates in a crowded segment, facing stiff competition from SUVs and MPVs designed for family use. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
Tata Safari
The Tata Safari, a direct rival, offers a rugged design and a strong diesel powertrain (170 bhp, 350 Nm) with both manual and automatic options. Priced between ₹17.35 Lakh and ₹27.35 Lakh (on-road, Delhi), it’s slightly cheaper than the Hector Plus at the base level but competes closely at the top end. The Safari’s advantages include a Bharat NCAP 5-star safety rating, sharper handling, and a more driver-focused experience. However, it lacks the Hector Plus’s extensive feature list, such as the 14-inch touchscreen and Level 2 ADAS, and its third-row space is similarly cramped.
Mahindra XUV700
The Mahindra XUV700 is another formidable contender, priced from ₹17.49 Lakh to ₹28.19 Lakh (on-road, Delhi). Available in 5- and 7-seater layouts, it offers petrol (197 bhp) and diesel (182 bhp) engines with manual and automatic options. The XUV700 edges out the Hector Plus with superior performance, a 5-star Global NCAP rating, and a more premium interior in higher trims. However, its tech suite is less extensive, and the Hector Plus’s panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats give it an edge in comfort.
Toyota Innova Crysta
The Toyota Innova Crysta, a benchmark in the MPV segment, ranges from ₹19.99 Lakh to ₹26.55 Lakh (on-road, Delhi). Powered by a 2.4L diesel engine (148 bhp, 343 Nm), it’s renowned for reliability, resale value, and third-row comfort—areas where the Hector Plus falls short. The Innova Crysta lacks advanced tech like ADAS or a large touchscreen, positioning it as a more traditional choice compared to the Hector Plus’s modern appeal.
Hyundai Alcazar
The Hyundai Alcazar, priced between ₹18.50 Lakh and ₹25.50 Lakh (on-road, Delhi), is a close match with its 1.5L turbo-petrol (158 bhp) and 2.0L diesel (183 bhp) engines. It offers a refined ride, premium interiors, and a strong feature set, including a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seats. While it’s more fuel-efficient and better balanced dynamically, the Hector Plus counters with a larger touchscreen, ADAS, and a more imposing design.
Verdict Against Competitors
The MG Hector Plus stands out for its tech-laden cabin, spacious interiors, and premium features, making it a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and modernity. However, it lags in third-row usability, lacks an automatic diesel option, and has untested crash safety credentials—areas where rivals like the Safari, XUV700, and Innova Crysta hold an advantage. Its pricing aligns with the segment, but discounts (up to ₹2.4 Lakh as of March 2025) often make it more attractive.
Final Thoughts!
The MG Hector Plus is a well-rounded SUV that blends style, technology, and practicality into a package tailored for Indian families. Its bold design, feature-rich interiors, and versatile seating options make it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV space. While it excels in comfort and tech, compromises in third-row space, fuel efficiency (petrol), and handling dynamics prevent it from being the segment leader. Against competitors like the Tata Safari, Mahindra XUV700, Toyota Innova Crysta, and Hyundai Alcazar, it holds its own by offering a unique mix of luxury and innovation at a competitive price point. For buyers seeking a spacious, modern, and tech-savvy family SUV, the Hector Plus is a worthy option, provided they can overlook its minor shortcomings. Always test drive and consult local dealers for the latest offers to make an informed decision.
