The MG Hector has always been one of India’s most recognisable SUVs, bold in size, generous in features and designed to appeal…
The MG Hector has always been one of India’s most recognisable SUVs, bold in size, generous in features and designed to appeal to buyers who want something premium without stepping into luxury-car territory. For the 2026 model, MG Motors India has refreshed the Hector once again, but this time, the update is not just cosmetic. The new model is significantly more affordable, with a starting price of ₹11.99 lakh, making it one of the most value-packed SUVs in its segment.
This comparison takes a detailed look at everything that has changed in the new Hector from design and interior updates to the complete price shift while also understanding how it stacks up against the outgoing model.
Exterior design
Although the Hector’s shape remains instantly recognisable, the newer model brings a more mature personality. The front fascia now carries a freshly designed hexagonal chrome grille, replacing the older diamond-pattern layout. This change alone makes the SUV look more premium and cohesive. The bumper has been subtly refined with a cleaner chrome outline, enhancing the front profile without making it overly flashy.
From the side, the changes are minimal but intentional. The alloy wheels retain their 18-inch size but adopt a new design that feels more contemporary and effortlessly blends with the SUV’s strong proportions. The rear of the Hector continues with its connected LED tail lamps, but MG Motors has reworked the bumper by integrating a neat chrome strip that stretches across the width, giving the SUV a wider and more premium stance. Two new colour options , Celadon Blue and Pearl White, also make the new Hector feel fresher and more upmarket.
Interior
Inside the cabin, MG Motors India has maintained the overall architecture of the previous model, but the experience feels more refined. The most crucial upgrade is in the 14-inch touchscreen system, which now supports intuitive swipe gestures for adjusting the AC and audio settings. This is a meaningful improvement because touchscreen-based climate controls were one of the most criticised aspects of the older Hector.
The new Hector also introduces upgraded interior themes. The five-seat variants now come with a Grey and Black finish, while the six- and seven-seat configurations in the Hector Plus adopt a richer Tan and Black theme, significantly improving the cabin atmosphere.
Apart from these updates, MG has retained all the well-loved features: a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, rear sunshades, Level-2 ADAS, an auto-dimming mirror and generous use of soft-touch materials. Space and comfort which have always been Hector strengths remain excellent.
Engine & drive experience: unchanged but still relevant
Mechanically, the new Hector continues with the same powertrain lineup as before. The tried-and-tested 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine remains the primary option, offered with both manual and CVT transmissions. The 2.0-litre diesel continues as well, although updated pricing for diesel and six-seat variants will be announced later in 2026. Since there are no mechanical changes, the familiar, comfort-oriented driving experience remains untouched.
Pricing: The new hector is significantly more affordable
The most striking difference between the new and old MG Hector lies in the pricing. MG has restructured the variant lineup and reduced prices across the board. Below is the accurate price comparison table.
| Variant | Old Price (₹l akh) | New Price (₹ lakh) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Style 5-seater MT | 11.99 | 14.00 | – 2.01 lakh |
| Shine Pro 5-seater MT | Discontinued | 15.85 | – |
| Shine Pro 5-seater CVT | Discontinued | 17.20 | – |
| Select Pro 5-seater MT | 13.99 | 16.17 | – 2.18 lakh |
| Select Pro 5-seater CVT | Discontinued | 17.52 | – |
| Smart Pro 5-seater MT | 14.99 | 16.89 | – 1.90 lakh |
| Smart Pro 5-seater CVT | 16.29 | New variant | – |
| Sharp Pro 5-seater MT | 16.79 | 18.34 | – 1.55 lakh |
| Sharp Pro 5-seater CVT | 18.09 | 19.69 | – 1.60 lakh |
| Sharp Pro 7-seater MT | 17.29 | 18.92 | – 1.63 lakh |
| Sharp Pro 7-seater CVT | 18.59 | 20.27 | – 1.68 lakh |
| Savvy Pro 5-seater CVT | 18.99 | 20.76 | – 1.77 lakh |
| Savvy Pro 7-seater CVT | 19.49 | 21.34 | – 1.85 lakh |
📌 Diesel and 6-seater prices will be announced later in 2026.
📌 Almost every variant is now cheaper in the new model.
A more mature, more affordable hector
While the new MG Hector may not look dramatically different from the outgoing model, the refinements it brings elevate the overall experience in a meaningful way. The sharper front grille, improved touchscreen usability, richer interior themes and cleaner bumper design all contribute to a more polished SUV. But the most important upgrade remains the pricing: MG has made the Hector more accessible and better value than ever.
If you are deciding between the old and new Hector, the 2026 model is a clear and easy recommendation. It delivers more sophistication, better cabin quality and genuine value for money all while keeping the strengths that made the Hector popular in the first place.