As MG Motor prepares for its big product launch in India the company has revealed the name of their first car. Called Hector, it will enter the market in June 2019. The name Hector has been derived from Greek Mythology. Hector was a Trojan prince, who is known as the greatest fighter from Troy in the Trojan war
MG Hector is a C-segment SUV, a 5 seater which is mighty long and surpasses the Honda CRV 7-seater in length. MG Motor, owned by the Chinese automaker, Shanghai Automotive has reportedly based the new SUV on Baojun 530, which is on sale in China. The India-spec MG Hector will borrow from its Chinese counterpart, and will take on Jeep Compass, Tata Harrier, Hyundai Tucson and others in its segment.
Having been spied testing multiple times, there’s a few noteworthy observations. The front signature grille wears an integrated MG badge, there’s a lower grille, and rear progressive LED turn indicator setup.
A front raked windshield complements its SUV stance. Projector headlamps, LED DRLs with blinkers, high roof mounted spoiler, sporty roof rails, electrically adjustable ORVMs with turn lights, and new alloy wheels have been spotted in test vehicles.
Keeping in mind its segment one can expect a range of comfort including leather upholstery and electrically adjustable seats. A touchscreen infotainment system, TFT multi-info display, and sunroof are expected.
MG Hector will be offered in petrol and diesel engine options. These will most likely be sourced from FCA India. The diesel engine will be a 2.0 liter generating 170 PS and 350 Nm, while the petrol engine will be a 1.4 liter generating 160 PS and 250 Nm. Automatic as well as manual transmission options will be on offer. Prices are expected to be in the Rs 15-20 lakh range.
MG Hector SUV will be manufactured at the company’s Halol plant in Gujarat. This is the same plant that General Motors sold when it stopped selling Chevrolet cars in India. MG Motor has invested Rs 2,000 crores for phase I development. In all, the company has earmarked an investment of Rs 5,000 crore over the next 6 years. MG Motor is working on production capability of manufacturing 1 lakh units per annum at its Halol plant.
