MG Hector Plus

MG Motor India has launched a Blackstorm Edition for the Hector Plus starting from Rs 21.98 lakh (ex-showroom). It gets an all-black appearance with red inserts inside and out. The special edition is based on the Sharp Pro variant of the Hector Plus and is available in both 6- and 7-seater configurations.

The MG Hector Plus is a six/seven-seater version of the MG Hector. This mid-size SUV competes with the seven seater versions of the Mahindra XUV700 and the Tata Safari. Alternatives in the same price bracket are higher variants of smaller SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyrder and the Honda Elevate.

Exterior

Changes to the design of the Hector plus are not drastic. But you will be able to differentiate the new one from the older model. 

From the front, MG has retained the same split auto-LED headlights in the bumper, along with LED fog lamps. The slim LED daytime running lights (DRLs) are placed at the top, and the front bumper has been modified to accommodate the larger grille. In the lower half of the bumper you'll notice the radar for the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in the skid plate.

The grille is now bigger and has diamond-shaped chrome elements. There's more black around the grille, giving it a somewhat sportier look. This design is something you will absolutely love, or not. There’s no in-between.

From the side, not much has changed. Higher variants of the Hector Plus feature 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, whereas lower variants get 17 inch alloys. Given the Hector's size, 19-inch wheels might have looked even better. The updated Hector also keeps the body side cladding with chrome accents and the 'Morris Garages' logo, just like before.

The new 2023 Hector Plus now features connected LED taillights with lighting elements in the center. A few changes have been made to the badging as well. The ‘Internet Inside’ badge has now been replaced by an ‘ADAS’ badge in the higher variant. There’s a large ‘ H E C T O R’ badge on the boot alongwith a small ‘PLUS’ badge underneath. This is the only visual difference between the Hector and the Hector Plus. Like the Hector there’s a redesigned rear bumper and a chrome strip on the boot connecting the tail lamps.

In general, the Hector still impresses with its spacious size and has a strong presence on the road. The updates make it stand out a bit more than before.

Interior

Step inside the Hector and you will notice a pleasant colour scheme that combines black and brown. This is the major difference compared to the five seater version.

Compared to the old model, MG has made some changes to dashboard, mainly to accommodate a larger touchscreen. There are silver and chrome accents around the AC vents, giving it a more luxurious feel. The upper parts of the dashboard, door panels, and above the glovebox are covered with soft-touch materials. However, the lower half is made of hard plastic, which is a bit disappointing. Other minor design changes include redesigned AC vents, a square start/stop button and a new gear selector lever.

The center console has also been redesigned and features a wooden-like finish around the gear lever, cup holders, and other controls. This center console smoothly connects with the touchscreen, creating a luxurious feel, much like what you'd find in high-end cars. The armrest can slide, and there's storage space underneath it.

The front seats offer good support and comfort. You can adjust the seats electrically, and there's plenty of space, even for individuals who are six feet tall, with ample headroom and legroom. Finding a comfortable driving position is easy, and you'll have a clear view through the windshield.

The rear seats have always been a strong point for the Hector, and not much has changed in the 2023 model. You get to choose between captain seats (6-seater version) and a bench seat (7-seater version) in the second row. Rear passengers have their own AC vents, cup holders, and a place to put their phones, with a fast-charging USB port.

There's ample headroom and legroom in the rear, but when there are more than two passengers, shoulder space becomes limited. Fortunately, there's no hump on the floor in the middle, so the person sitting in the center has enough legroom. MG has made the rear seats adjustable, allowing for sliding and reclining for added comfort. The cushioning on the captain seats deserve a special mention - they’re just as comfortable as the front seats.

The third row space of the Hector Plus is not particularly great. Even for short trips, adults will not be comfortable here. It is best used by kids or pets. There’s a lack of support for the underthigh and you sit with you knees pointing up.

Boot Space

With all rows in place, MG Hector Plus boot space is just 155-litres. This is sufficient only for a couple of backpacks. If you fold the third row of seats, you get just as much space as the five seater Hector — 587-litres. This is large enough to easily accommodate all your luggage for a weekend trip. The powered tailgate is also a convenient feature.

Features

Features on the Hector Plus top model include: 

This covers pretty much everything you expect from a vehicle of this size and segment. 

One would expect the new 14-inch touchscreen to be the stand out feature. While it does deliver in terms of graphics, clarity and functions such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the system's response time is sluggish. The voice command system doesn't always work accurately. On the bright side, the audio output from the 'Infinity' branded system is quite good. 

Safety

The Hector Plus has a variety of safety features. The top model gets electronic stability program (ESP), traction control system, hill-hold assist, up to six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera.

With the facelift, the Hector's safety features have been upgraded to include Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). This includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning.

It's important to understand that ADAS is designed to assist the driver, not take complete control, especially in busy traffic like ours. It works best on well-marked roads, such as highways and expressways. The system is well-calibrated and operates smoothly, enhancing the SUV's safety quotient.

Performance

The Hector Plus is offered with a 2.0-litre diesel and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The diesel engine is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission only. With the petrol you get the choice of a 6-speed manual transmission and a CVT (automatic).

Variant-wise feature availability is as follows:

1.5-litre Petrol

The petrol engine in the Hector Plus feels suitable for its size. Whether you're driving in the city or on the highway, the driving experience is easy.

It will not be engaging or excitinglike the larger 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine in the Mahindra XUV700. However, for daily driving and relaxed highway trips, it should meet your needs. If you have to choose between the manual and the automatic, we recommend stretching your budget for the automatic option, as it makes the driving experience even more hassle-free. If you prefer a calm driving style, the Hector petrol won't disappoint.

Please note that this engine's fuel efficiency is not particularly impressive. If you drive a lot, we would suggest considering the diesel engine option instead.

2.0-litre Diesel

The 2.0-liter engine used in the Hector is developed by Fiat/Jeep and is also used in the Tata Harrier/Safari and the Jeep Compass/Meridian. However, it's not the most refined engine, and you'll hear noise inside the cabin, along with some vibrations.

There is a bit of lag in performance under 1500rpm, but after that, the acceleration is impressive. This engine is best suited for those who take frequent highway trips or have daily usage exceeding 50km. The only drawback is that this engine doesn't come with an automatic transmission. Both Tata and Mahindra offer a diesel-automatic combination.

Do note that there is no all-wheel drive option available.

Ride and Handling 

A comfortable ride has always been the Hector Plus’ strength. It absorbs most bumps and uneven road surfaces, ensuring passengers' comfort. You may only experience some side-to-side swaying and feel harsh bumps in the cabin when driving on rough roads at lower speeds. However, at highway speeds, the Hector remains stable and confident.

Additionally, the steering is tuned well for everyday use – it's light, which makes city driving and parking easier. As speeds increase, the steering provides enough weight, offering a comfortable feeling for the driver.

Verdict

The Hector Plus is not an out and out 7 seater. It is best described as a 5+2, where the additional row will be used only occasionally by kids or pets. That said, all the strengths of the Hector have been carried over to the Plus version — it’s spacious, comfortable, well-built and loaded with tech. Consider this if you want a large SUV for the family and are okay trading some driving fun for sensibility.