MG Hector’s Doppelganger Gets New Strong-hybrid Powertrain In Indonesia
- by Aniruthan Srithar
- Sep 29, 2022
- | Views: 1601
The Wuling Almaz Hybrid was showcased at the 2022 Indonesia Electric Motor Show
- Almaz hybrid teams a new 2-litre petrol engine with an electric motor.
- It hasn’t been paired with the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.
- Technical specifications still under wraps.
- Reports suggest it will be launched in Indonesia in October.
- In India, MG is preparing the facelifted Hector with cosmetic and feature updates.
The Wuling Almaz, MG Hector’s doppelganger, has been showcased with a new strong-hybrid powertrain at the 2022 Indonesia Electric Motor Show. Currently, the Hector, in India, gets an electrified powertrain in the form of a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
The Almaz’ hybrid powertrain consists of a new 2-litre petrol engine that’s teamed with an electric motor. Drive is sent to the front wheels via what the carmaker calls a dedicated hybrid transmission. Technical specifications of the car are still under wraps, but reports suggest that details will be revealed once it’s launched in October.
Just like other self-charging hybrid offerings, the Almaz will be capable of driving in pure electric mode. There’s also a dedicated battery pack, which self charges itself from the petrol engine once it runs out of juice. Other distinguishing bits over the standard model include hybrid-specific blue accents on the exterior.
In India, MG is preparing to launch the facelifted Hector soon. It will get a revamped fascia, an upmarket cabin with an even larger 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a couple of more new features. However, it’s likely to carry forward the existing 2-litre diesel and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine options for now.
Once launched, expect it to command a minor premium over the current model, which is priced from Rs 14.43 lakh (ex-showroom). It will renew its rivalry with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos as well as larger SUVs like the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700 5-seater.
And if MG considers launching the Hector strong-hybrid here later on, it will be a premium alternative to the strong-hybrid variants of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder.