MG Hector Leaked In New Images Ahead Of Launch

UPDATE: The MG Hector has been launched with prices starting at Rs 12.18 lakh (ex-showroom pan India). Check out the complete prices and other details here. 

• The SUV will be launched next month.
• Will get connected features with 4G connectivity.
• Features a massive 10.4-inch tablet with Android-based OS.
• Will rival the likes of Jeep Compass and Tata Harrier.

MG Motor is entering India with the Hector next month. While the brand showcased its advanced connectivity innovations at the press conference that was held a few days ago, the production-ready version of the car wasn't showcased at the event. Nonetheless, these leaked images have emerged from a dealer meeting where the SUV was showcased, helping us trace out some essential details:

What grabs your attention immediately is the massive hexagonal chrome grill up front which carries the brand’s iconic badge, also covered in chrome. The DRLs sit on top, flanking the grill, and double up as turn indicators. The top half of the bumper houses the split projector headlamp assembly, under which the futuristic-looking fog lamps are positioned.

 Coming to the side profile, the SUV gets squared-off wheel arches, which looks pretty chunky.  There is ample usage of chrome elements, specifically on the lower door trim, around the windows and door handles. The rear of the SUV looks in tune with the overall design language of the car with horizontal LED taillamps, integrated spoiler and the lower bumper portion that is encompassed by a huge aluminium skid plate setup. This has provisions for a dual exhaust setup but, as seen in the leaked images, the right side has been plugged. Right above the skid plate is a reflector setup and clear lamps which could possibly be used as reverse lights.

The 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment  setup is what stands out in the interior as a screen this big is a novelty in this segment and price point. MG calls it iSMART, an in-car Android-based tablet featuring 4G connectivity and OTA (over the air) updates. The system will is also 5G-ready. This M2M SIM  connection enables a lot of functions in the SUV including features like emergency calls, vehicle status, remote control for the sunroof, tailgate, door lock and a whole lot more. Apart from these, the SUV will also come with features like mood lighting, separate volume controls for media, phone and system alerts, and a single-zone automatic climate control and advanced features like Call Emergency Response system, AI-powered Voice Assist, Gaana premium account, AccuWeather app, Geo Fencing and Microsoft Intelligent Security.

The leaked images also show a two-tone interior setup with black-beige colour combo, which comes as a surprise because the recent teaser commercial for the SUV features an all-black interior setup. The seats look amply supported from the leaked images with minor extended under thigh support.

A Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre Multijet diesel engine producing 173PS/350Nm, similar to the Jeep Compass, will be used along with a six speed manual transmission, which can also be seen in the leaked interior images. The petrol engine will be a 1.5-litre turbocharged unit with expected figures of 143PS/250Nm. The petrol motor will also get the option of a DCT.

The Hector will be launched next month and is expected to come with a price range of 15 lakh - 20 lakh (ex-showroom). It will go up against the Jeep compass, Tata Harrier and the Mahindra XUV500.