MG Hector Facelift 2026
MG Hector facelift set for unveiling on December 15, 2025, brings a comprehensive refresh to this popular mid-size SUV, blending sharper styling, cutting-edge tech, and family-friendly practicality. Originally launched in 2019, the Hector has sold over 2 lakh units in India, pioneering connected car tech, and this update aims to sustain its edge against intensifying competition.
Striking Exterior Redesign
The 2026 MG Hector debuts a more aggressive front fascia with a larger, chrome-heavy hexagonal grille that seamlessly integrates the updated MG emblem, evoking premium global SUVs. Slimmer, vertically oriented LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs) flank it, paired with a sculpted lower bumper featuring a prominent skid plate and fog lamp housings for enhanced road presence. At the sides, the familiar bold lines persist on its 4480mm length and 2750mm wheelbase, but new dual-tone diamond-cut 18-inch alloys add flair, while flush door handles and roof rails emphasize aerodynamics. The rear sees minor refinements to the connected LED taillight bar and bumper, with dual exhaust tips on higher trims. Fresh paint options, including a deep cosmic blue and matte finishes, offer personalization, making it visually competitive with the Tata Harrier’s muscularity or Mahindra XUV700’s boldness.
Luxurious Cabin Transformation
Step inside, and the cockpit feels like an upgrade to executive class. A massive 14.6-inch or rumored 15.6-inch floating touchscreen anchors the dashboard, running a revamped i-Smart 2.0 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice commands, and gesture controls for seamless navigation between music, AC, and calls. Complementing it is a fully digital 10.25-inch driver’s display with customizable themes. Premium touches abound: leatherette or ventilated front seats with 6-way power adjustment, a single-pane or panoramic sunroof flooding the space with light, 64-color ambient lighting, and a rear entertainment screen option for Plus variants. The cabin boasts dual-zone AC, wireless charging pad, multiple USB-C ports, and a 510L boot expandable to 1674L—ideal for weekend getaways. Sound insulation improvements promise a quieter ride, addressing past NVH critiques, while high-quality soft-touch materials elevate the perceived value over rivals like Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos.
Proven Powertrains with Smart Enhancements
Power remains familiar yet refined. The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers 143PS and 250Nm, mated to a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic for smooth city-highway duties, claiming 12-14kmpl. Diesel fans get the punchy 2.0-litre unit (170PS/350Nm) with 6-speed MT or torque-converter AT, offering 15-17kmpl efficiency. No hybrid or full-electric yet, but expect software tweaks for better throttle response and fuel economy via drive modes (Eco, City, Sport). Safety leaps forward with Level 2 ADAS—including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, traffic jam assist, and blind-spot monitoring—plus 6 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill-hold/descent, tyre pressure monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. These features position it as one of the safest in class, matching or exceeding Mahindra’s offerings.
Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning
Pricing is projected at ₹16-28 lakh (ex-showroom), a modest hike from the current ₹13.99-22.27 lakh range, justified by added tech and safety. The 5-seater Hector targets urban professionals, while the Plus variant caters to larger families. It squares off against Tata Harrier/Safari, Mahindra XUV700/Scorpio-N, Jeep Compass, and Hyundai Alcazar, boasting superior screen real estate, connected features (over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics), and a 5-year unlimited km warranty. JSW MG’s expanding 400+ dealerships mitigate past service network concerns, with bookings likely post-unveil and deliveries from January 2026.
Why the Facelift Excels
This fourth iteration (third major facelift) evolves the Hector from a tech disruptor to a well-rounded contender. It retains spaciousness for Indian roads—1830mm wide, 1780mm tall—while fixing niggles like interior plastics and mileage. In a segment growing 20% yearly, the Hector’s value-for-money proposition, bolstered by teasers hinting at ADAS supremacy, could reclaim top sales spots. Expect showroom buzz as buyers weigh its gadgetry against rivals’ diesel prowess or 4×4 appeal. Stay tuned for live reveals on December 15—will it redefine SUV expectations again?