New MG Hector facelift has officially arrived in India, and JSW MG Motor is betting big on this strategic update to regain lost ground in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment. Priced from Rs 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory), this third major revision since the Hector’s 2019 debut brings refined styling, enhanced technology, and most importantly, a significant price reduction that could reshape its market position.
The timing of this launch raises a compelling question: can cosmetic updates and aggressive pricing breathe new life into a nameplate that once dominated conversations in the Indian SUV market?
New MG Hector Facelift Pricing: A Bold Value Proposition
The most striking aspect of the new MG Hector facelift is its revised pricing strategy. MG has slashed prices by Rs 2.1 lakh compared to the outgoing model, positioning the entry-level Style MT petrol variant at Rs 11.99 lakh. The range-topping Savvy Pro CVT commands Rs 18.99 lakh, which is Rs 1.77 lakh less than its predecessor.
The complete petrol variant lineup includes Style MT, Select Pro, Smart Pro, Sharp Pro, and Savvy Pro trims. The seven-seater Hector Plus starts at Rs 17.29 lakh, while pricing for six-seater configurations will be announced separately. Diesel variant prices are expected in early 2026.
This aggressive pricing undercuts several established rivals and positions the Hector as one of the most affordable feature-loaded SUVs in its class.
Design Evolution: What The New MG Hector Facelift Brings
The exterior updates on the new MG Hector facelift follow an evolutionary rather than revolutionary approach. MG has introduced the Aura Hex grille, replacing the previous diamond-mesh pattern with a vertical hexagonal design that appears more contemporary and refined.
The redesigned front bumper features cleaner chrome detailing around the air dam, lending the SUV a more premium appearance. New 16-inch Aura Bolt dual-tone alloy wheels complement the refreshed front fascia. The rear bumper has also been reworked, though the distinctive LED light bar connecting the tail lamps remains unchanged.
Two new exterior colours join the palette Celadon Blue and Pearl White expanding personalisation options for buyers. The overall dimensions remain identical to the outgoing model, preserving the Hector’s commanding road presence that originally attracted buyers to this nameplate.
Interior Refinements And Technology Upgrades
Inside, the new MG Hector facelift receives meaningful cabin updates. The five-seater variant now features a dual-tone Ice Grey interior theme, while six and seven-seater Hector Plus models get an Urban Tan layout. Both options elevate the perceived quality over the previous cabin design.
The segment-leading 14-inch portrait-style touchscreen remains the centrepiece of the dashboard. However, MG has upgraded its functionality with faster hardware, refreshed software, and the new iSwipe gesture control technology. This system enables intuitive multi-touch operations two-finger swipes control climate settings, while three-finger gestures manage audio functions.
The 360-degree camera system now includes a wheel view option, enhancing parking convenience. The seven-inch digital instrument cluster continues unchanged, providing clear readouts for essential driving information.
Standard features across higher variants include ventilated front seats, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, eight-colour ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a PM 2.5 air filter with air purifier, push-button start, powered tailgate, and rain-sensing wipers. The connected car suite offers over 70 features accessible through the MG app.
Powertrain Options: Proven Performance
The new MG Hector facelift retains its existing powertrain combinations without modification. The 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine produces 143 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic.
The 2.0-litre Stellantis-sourced turbocharged diesel engine delivers 170 bhp and 350 Nm. Currently, this unit is available exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox, though there is speculation about a potential automatic option in future updates.
While some buyers might have expected powertrain improvements, MG has prioritised value and features over mechanical changes. The existing engines have proven reliable across 1,50,000 customer deliveries since launch.
ADAS And Safety Equipment
The new MG Hector facelift continues offering a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems suite. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Bend Cruise Assistance, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Front Collision Warning, and Safe Distance Warning.
Standard safety provisions across the range include front parking sensors, anti-theft immobilisation, and the structural integrity that earned Hector respectable crash test ratings. The inclusion of ADAS at this price point remains a genuine differentiator against key rivals.
Market Competition: Where The New MG Hector Facelift Stands
The mid-size SUV segment has transformed dramatically since the original Hector’s launch. The new MG Hector facelift now competes against formidable rivals including the Tata Harrier and Safari, Mahindra XUV700 and Scorpio N, Hyundai Alcazar, and Jeep Compass.
The upcoming Mahindra XUV 7XO adds another competitor to this crowded space. Against this backdrop, MG’s pricing strategy makes commercial sense the brand cannot compete on brand equity alone against Tata and Mahindra’s growing dominance.
The Hector’s advantages remain its feature density, interior space, and the aggressive introductory pricing. However, questions persist about build quality perceptions and after-sales network coverage compared to domestic manufacturers.
Ownership And Financing Offers
MG is supporting the launch with attractive financing schemes, including up to 100 percent on-road price financing with tenures extending to 84 months. Full funding support for accessories further sweetens the ownership proposition, lowering entry barriers for prospective buyers.
Can This Refresh Actually Boost Sales?
The honest assessment is nuanced. The new MG Hector facelift addresses pricing concerns that likely deterred value-conscious buyers. The Rs 2.1 lakh reduction positions it competitively against rivals that previously offered better value per rupee spent.
However, the updates remain incremental. Buyers expecting substantial mechanical improvements or dramatic design changes might find this refresh underwhelming. The mid-size SUV segment has evolved significantly, with competitors offering diesel automatics, more advanced infotainment systems, and stronger brand pull.
MG’s challenge extends beyond the product itself. Network expansion, service quality improvements, and residual value concerns require sustained attention. The JSW partnership brings manufacturing stability, but converting that into consumer confidence demands consistent execution.
The introductory pricing, limited to initial units, also warrants scrutiny. Regular pricing could erode the value advantage that makes this refresh compelling.
Motors77 Verdict
The new MG Hector facelift represents pragmatic product management rather than ambitious reinvention. MG has recognised that competing purely on features is no longer sufficient pricing competitiveness matters equally in today’s market.
For buyers prioritising features, space, and value, the Hector remains a sensible choice at its new price point. The technology package, particularly the gesture-controlled touchscreen and comprehensive ADAS suite, offers genuine utility.
However, the refresh alone is unlikely to dramatically reverse MG’s market share trajectory. Sustainable sales growth requires addressing broader brand perception challenges and expanding service networks.
This is a competitive product at an attractive price. Whether that translates into showroom footfalls depends on MG’s ability to execute beyond the product launch winning in this segment demands earning buyer trust, one customer at a time.
Price mentioned is ex-showroom and introductory. Actual prices may vary by location and variant.
With rivals updating aggressively, the new Kia Seltos 2026 could emerge as one of the strongest alternatives to the MG Hector in terms of design, technology and brand pull.
