MG Hector: Big and beautiful

The Hector boasts multiple powertrain options and a lengthy list of features

What is it?

The Hector is the first offering by MG (short for Morris Garages) in India, and as far as game plans go, it seems to be perfect . It’s got prominent road presence, a spacious and practical cabin, multiple powertrain options and a lengthy features list.

What’s it like on the outside?

One look at the Hector is enough to let you know the designers at MG haven’t really held back. The front is in line with the current trend of SUV design, where the DRLs take the top spot. The LED DRLs on the Hector merge into the wide chrome grille, and then there are the LED headlamps that share the bumper with the fog lamps (also LED), with a chunky C-shape chrome strip around it. The centre has a faux metal skidplate around the massive honeycomb air dam. Look at it from the side and what immediately stand out are the smart-looking, dual-tone alloy wheels. Apart from that, the edgy theme continues with a prominent crease stretching across the length of the SUV. A chrome beltline accentuates the premium appeal, while the roofrails give it that much-needed SUV cred. At the rear, the sharp-looking LED tail-lights are connected by a reflector that blends in.

What’s it like on the inside?

Step into the Hector’s cabin and what grabs your attention is the sense of space. This might not be the widest interior dimensionally, but it has an airy feel. Then, there is the massive portrait-oriented tablet in the centre console. Everything from infotainment to navigation and even the HVAC settings are all housed in this 10.4-inch vibrant touchscreen. The touchscreen, however, isn’t the slickest. There is a good amount of lag, the touch response is delayed. It also tends to freeze if you rush it and that really spoils the experience.

Next, you have the iSMART app which gives you access to functions like remote vehicle control, geofencing up to 100km, vehicle speed alerts, collision alerts and more. You can locate the exact position of your car by enabling the ‘Find my car’ option, which not only enables the hazards and horn, but also gives you a route in case the car is parked far away. Other features in the Hector include a 360-degree camera, navigation with real-time traffic updates and a premium account to Gaana.com.

Finding a comfortable driving position is easy, thanks to a six-way electric driver seat and tilt and telescopic steering adjust. The seats, however, aren’t the most comfortable. They are broad and generous for even large frame adults, but the lumbar support is a bit too protruding. Then there is the material, which, according to MG, is ‘man-made’ or artificial leather, but it lacks perforation on the seats.

Get in the back and there is nothing but good news. The best-in-class wheelbase really comes into its own, giving you ample legroom even with the front seats stretched all the way back. Headroom too is sufficient for even six-footers. You also get rear AC vents, but the highlight is the massive panoramic sunroof that elevates the backseat experience. Bootspace is another area where the Hector does really well.

What’s it like to drive?

We’ll start with the crowd favourite — the diesel engine. The refinement at idle is excellent and there is none of that typical clatter usually seen on diesel engines. Making 170hp and 350Nm, it isn’t the most powerful, and the power delivery is very linear as well. Also, the clutch in the Hector requires careful modulation and the pedal placement too is more to the left, leaving less room for the dead pedal.

Ride comfort is excellent as the soft spring suspension gobbles up the broken patches and potholes with ease. Handling is like you would expect from an SUV this size. Thanks to the soft suspension set-up, there is a good amount of body roll if you enter fast into a corner. Now, to the 1.5-litre petrol-hybrid engine which makes 143hp and 250Nm, with an additional 20Nm coming from the 48V battery housed under the passenger seat. Like the diesel, refinement on start-up is excellent and the cabin is quiet and silent when cruising around in the city. Getting off the line isn’t easy with this petrol engine, as under 3,000rpm, there is little response from the engine. It is only after 3,200rpm that it actually picks up pace.

Should I buy one?

Prices for the Hector have not been revealed yet, but it is evident who the competition is. The Tata Harrier and Jeep Compass, with which the Hector shares an engine, are the most targeted contenders.

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MG Hector (petrol variant) test drive and review