2021 MG Hector Facelift Spied Sans Camouflage Ahead Of Imminent Launch

MG finally entered the Indian automotive market a year and a half ago with the Hector SUV. While it got off to a strong initial start, sales have tapered off lately with the recent launches of the Kia Seltos and new Hyundai Creta taking the spotlight. To fight this, MG launched the six-seater Hector Plus but it hasn’t created a buzz as the original launch did. IndianAuto recently revealed spy shots of a camouflaged Hector test mule, possibly hinting at a refresh already. Now, the refreshed MG Hector has been caught testing without camouflage in Gujarat, meaning a possible launch is right around the corner. 

As it is common with a mid-life refresh, the facelifted vehicle doesn’t look radically different. The new MG Hector gets a new grille with horizontal slats instead of the studded design on the outgoing car. The rest of the front-end remains untouched and continues with its split LED headlamp setup with high-set LED DRLs. It would have been better if the headlamp design was updated to that of the Hector Plus and if chrome was used a bit less liberally, though it seems unlikely.

The biggest visual change to MG Hector would be to its overall profile. It is quite a large SUV and its current 17-inch wheels make it look rather under tyred to the rest of the vehicle. Spy images of the facelifted model suggest that the new Hector could be fitted with bigger 18-inch alloys with a new 5-double-spoke dual-tone design. The bigger wheels fill up the wheel arches much better and look more premium as well. Over to the rear, the profile looks to remain similar to the current Hector.

Coming to the interior, it should remain largely similar as the MG Hector Plus uses the same layout as well. However, MG may bring new trim materials for the dashboard or a new dual-tone theme for the upholstery to freshen up the interior. The interior of the Hector doesn’t look outdated at all, and it is actually one of its strongest selling points. Some of the standout features include a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car tech, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, automatic climate control, powered driver’s seat, and an Infinity sound system and much more. 

The current engine choices should continue in the facelifted MG Hector. It will continue with its FCA-sourced 170hp 2.0-litre diesel engine and the 140hp 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. The petrol engine can also be had with mild-hybrid tech for start/stop functionality and additional torque boost. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard while the turbo-petrol variants also get a DCT gearbox. The facelifted MG Hector could be launched sometime in 2021 and it will continue its rivalry with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Tata Harrier.