MG Motor India has reintroduced the diesel version of its popular Hector Plus SUV in the Indian market. The new model is priced from ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available exclusively in the Sharp Pro (O) variant. Unlike the previous lineup, the diesel engine is now offered only with the 7-seater configuration, while the 5-seater diesel version has been discontinued.

The move brings the Hector Plus Diesel back into competition with rivals such as the Tata Safari and Hyundai Alcazar, although buyers now have fewer diesel variant choices than before.

Exterior design remains familiar

The new Hector Plus Diesel retains the design introduced with the facelift and closely resembles the higher-spec variants. Key exterior highlights include:

• LED projector headlamps

• LED daytime running lights (DRLs)

• LED fog lamps

• 18-inch alloy wheels

• Connected LED tail lamps

While the SUV continues to offer a premium road presence, competing models like the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700 provide a wider range of diesel trims and seating options.

Premium cabin with feature-loaded interior

The Sharp Pro (O) trim sits just below the top-end Savvy Pro variant and comes with a premium dual-tone tan and black cabin.

Interior highlights include:

• Seven-seat layout

• Leatherette finish on the dashboard and door panels

• 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• 8-inch fully digital driver display

• Three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with physical controls

The cabin continues to focus on comfort and technology, making it suitable for family buyers.

Comfort and safety features

MG has equipped the Hector Plus Diesel with several premium convenience features, including:

• Ventilated front seats

• Electrically adjustable front seats

• Panoramic sunroof

• Wireless smartphone charger

• Automatic climate control

• 8-speaker Infinity audio system with subwoofer and amplifier

On the safety front, the SUV offers:

• Six airbags

• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

• Traction Control System

• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• Rear parking camera

However, buyers will miss out on some premium features such as a 360-degree camera, powered tailgate, PM2.5 air purifier, and Level 2 ADAS, which are available in higher variants.

Engine and transmission

Powering the SUV is a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers 170 hp and 350 Nm of torque.

The engine is paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox, and there is currently no automatic transmission option for the diesel model. The same engine is also used in the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari, where an automatic gearbox is available.

Should you consider it?

The return of the MG Hector Plus Diesel gives buyers another option in the three-row SUV segment, especially for those who prefer a diesel-powered family vehicle. While the feature list remains impressive, the availability of only a single manual 7-seater variant may limit choices compared to rivals like the Tata Safari, Hyundai Alcazar, and Mahindra XUV700.