MG Hector Plus vs Hector: What’s The Difference?

Morris Garages has launched its premium six-seater SUV, the Hector Plus, in the country. The Hector Plus is based on the Hector and sits above the standard model. But are there any differentiating factors between the two SUVs? Let’s find out:

Design:

 The Hector Plus looks largely similar to the standard model. However, it gets subtle cosmetic updates that differentiate it from the standard model.

At the front, the Hector Plus comes with a slightly revised grille, new LED headlamps and a redesigned bumper. Moreover, the lack of plastic-chrome elements gives it a cleaner look.  

In profile, both models look similar to each other and there are no differentiating elements here.  

At the rear, the Hector Plus comes with new detailing for the LED tail lamps and a revised bumper. MG has done away with the red colour strip that connects the LED tail lamps in the standard model, and we quite like the cleaner look of it.

Overall, the cosmetic updates to the exterior are subtle yet neatly executed. 

Interior: 

Though the Hector Plus’ dashboard layout is similar to the standard model, it features a more premium tan-coloured upholstery. However, the main change is in the middle row. 

 

While the standard Hector comes with bench seats, the Hector utilises captain seats for the middle occupants. These seats can be slid back and forth as well reclined for more comfort. A bench seat version of the Hector Plus will arrive at a later date. 

The Hector Plus also comes with a third row of seats. However, these seats are best reserved for children/teenagers rather than full-sized adults. This setup also eats into the cavernous boot space of the standard model. With all rows up, the Hector Plus only offers 155 litres of boot space, which is less than what many budget hatchbacks offer. Fold down the third row and the boot space goes up to 530 litres, which is 47 litres less than what the standard Hector offers. 

Features: 

Apart from the new swipe-to-open-tailgate feature, both models share an identical feature list. Highlights include connected car technology, a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, an Infinity sound system, powered front seats, cruise control, and a coloured multi-info display. Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control, and electronic parking brake. 

Engine Options:

Not much has changed here as well. You can choose from either a 143PS 1.5-litre petrol, a 143PS 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol or a 170PS 2.0-litre diesel engine. The petrol-only Hector is offered with a DCT while the other two engine options are offered with a 6-speed manual transmission only. 

Verdict:

The Hector Plus offers a more pleasing design, an additional feature, and comfortable captain seats in the middle row, all for an additional sum of Rs 65,000. This makes the Hector Plus an easy choice for those looking for a more premium experience compared to the standard SUV. However, if you are only going to be ferrying four or five passengers most of the time, we suggest you save your money and pick up the standard model. But if you go on frequent road trips with your extended family, or want a chauffeur-driven SUV with comfortable captain seats, you could spend the extra dough and pick up the Hector Plus.

* Introductory prices. Will receive a price hike of up to Rs 50,000 on August 13