The MG Hector SUV launched in India from Rs. 12.18 Lakh last month with several segment-first features, directly rivals Tata flagship ‘Harrier’
MG Motor India is all set to make a big statement in the domestic market with the Hector premium SUV as it already receives over 12,000 bookings in just 30 days. The success of Hyundai Creta has allowed several manufacturers to explore the segment but only a few have got things in the right way including Tata Motors courtesy of the Land Rover D8 platform based Harrier.
An SUV from the above segment, the Hector still undercuts the Harrier in terms of the price range and is the most modern competitor for the homegrown SUV. The Hector is stacked with several segment-first features and here are the five apparent advantages it has over the Harrier.
1. 10.4-inch Tablet-Like Touchscreen Infotainment System:
Stepping inside the cabin of the MG Hector SUV, you will instantly notice the vertically oriented 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Artificial Intelligence enabled voice assistance, embedded Airtel SIM allowing for over-the-air updates, Emergency Response, Geo-Fencing, use of unique apps like TomTom, Gaana and AccuWeather among 100 connected car options.
2. Advanced Hybrid Petrol Engine:
The Harrier does not have the option of a petrol engine yet but the Hector derives power from a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and 2.0-litre Fiat-sourced diesel. The former uses a 48 V hybrid system that enables regenerative braking, automatic engine start/stop and other functions to increase the frugality and reduce emissions. It produces 143 PS and 250 Nm and will be mated to either a six-speed manual or a DCT auto.
3. Bigger proportions:
The Hector has bigger dimensions than the Tata Harrier thanks to it being based on the Baojun 530 sold in China. It measures 4,655 mm in length, 1,835 mm in width and has a height of 1,760 mm with 192 mm ground clearance. In comparison, the Hector is 57 mm longer and 54 mm taller than the Harrier but the latter is 59 mm wider and has 13 mm higher ground clearance. The 9 mm longer wheelbase should ensure roomier cabin as well while the boot is 162 litres bigger.
4. More Powerful Diesel Engine:
The Hector and Harrier use the same 2.0-litre Fiat-sourced four-cylinder diesel engine but the former produces 30 PS more power. The late 2020 bound seven-seater Harrier will be on par with the Hector though in terms of power and torque outputs. The Hector will be retailed with a six-speed manual transmission only.
5. More Number Of Features: AI Assistance, e-SIM, etc
As we mentioned above, the MG Hector obliterates its competition with several segment first features and other goodies. Besides AI assistance and e-SIM, it will offer the segment’s biggest panoramic sunroof, eight colour ambient lighting, power-operated tailgate, 360-degree camera system and a slew of driver assistance and safety features.