The more the merrier
The 6-seat MG Hector Plus builds on the Hector’s strengths by adding captain seats and a third row along with revisions to the exterior and interior plus additional features
Around a year ago MG introduced the Hector impressing buyers with its imposing looks, generous proportions, a strong list of features and, most importantly, acres of space within the cabin. So much space in fact, that it wasn’t long before we started wondering if there was room for more. By adding a third row, that’s exactly what MG has gone ahead and done with the Hector Plus. That, and bit more.
Up front, the nose gets a chrome delete of sorts and has been restyled with a new grille, re-profiled LED DRLs with more intricate detailing, and a revised headlamp cluster which features LED units and neatly integrated LED turn indicators. In profile, it remains unchanged and the 17-inch alloys have been carried over as well. Towards the rear there is a new bumper along with revised, more sophisticated LED detailing for the tail lamps. Also new is the Starry Sky Blue shade you see on our test car. The Smart Swipe lets you pop the trunk with a swipe of your foot. Speaking of the trunk, the addition of extra seats has reduced boot space to 530 litres with the third row folded flat. The five-seat Hector for reference has a capacity of 587 litres.
One of the Hector Plus’ biggest selling points is the presence of captain seats in the second row. They’re large and quite comfortable with impressive backrests and seat squabs in terms of size. Rear seat space was always one of the biggest strengths of the Hector so you get plenty of knee room and plenty of space to stretch your legs out. And with the Hector Plus that has been amplified thanks to these seats which can
also be slid back and forth and reclined. Since the second row doesn’t tumble forward like in MPVs, the easiest way to get into the third row is via the gap between the second row individual seats. Once in, you’ll realise that the third row is fit only for smaller than average adults or children. Since the second row can be slid forward, it is possible to create ample knee room, but the seating position is a bit knees up. On the plus side, the rear quarter glass ensures that the space doesn’t feel claustrophobic. Those in the third row also get cup holders, individuals aircon vents with fan speed control and a USB charging socket. Cheaper MPVs like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga/XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo and the pricier Toyota Innova offer more spacious rear seats, but compared to an SUV like the XUV500, space and comfort are more or less similar. While a 7-seat option with a second row bench is expected to arrive later, for now, the Hector Plus will be available only as a six seater.
The Hector Plus shares engine and transmission options with the Hector so you get a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with 141bhp and 250Nm mated a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT and the same engine can be had with a 48V mild hybrid setup that offers 20Nm of torque assist, but is available only with a 6-speed manual ‘box. Diesel variant comes with a 2.0-litre FCA-sourced Multijet engine good for 168bhp and 350Nm. A 6-speed manual is the only gearbox option. Performance,
WITH THE ADDITION OF EXTRA SEATS, BOOT SPACE IS DOWN TO 530 LITRES FROM THE FIVE SEAT HECTOR’S 587 LITRES
ride and handling and related aspects of the
Hector Plus are identical to the 5-seat version. In case of the petrol variants, it gathers speed at a rather leisurely pace offering decent performance at city speeds or for cruising along on the highway. Refinement levels are rather impressive too. The one with the 6-speed automatic which has been quite popular with Hector buyers is effortless to drive in the city but aggressiveness with the throttle is something it does not like and is bit slow to react most of the times. If it’s better performance and fuel efficiency you’re after then the diesel variant is what you should pick, but it still does not come with an automatic transmission. Ride and handling characteristics too are identical to the Hector with the focus clearly being on comfort resulting in good low speed ride. At higher speeds though, there is plenty of body movement and it just doesn’t like to be driven enthusiastically. But that’s all right, considering the target audience will largely be with quite pleased with the cushy ride.