The MG Hector has been one of the most talked-about midsize SUVs in India since its debut, thanks to its bold design, tech-forward cabin, and competitive pricing. With changing customer expectations and rising competition, MG Motor has refreshed its flagship SUV once again. The MG Hector facelift brings noticeable upgrades over the old model—but are the changes cosmetic, or do they meaningfully improve the ownership experience?
In this detailed comparison, we break down MG Hector facelift vs old model across design, interiors, features, safety, performance, and overall value to help you decide whether the update is worth your attention.
Exterior Design: Sharper, Bolder, and More Premium
One of the most immediate differences between the MG Hector facelift and the old model is the exterior styling. While the overall silhouette remains familiar, the facelift focuses on modernizing the SUV’s road presence.
What’s New in the Facelift
- A larger and more aggressive diamond-mesh grille
- Revised front bumper with sharper detailing
- Updated LED headlamps with a sleeker DRL signature
- Redesigned alloy wheels for a sportier stance
Old Model Comparison
The previous Hector had a clean and bold look, but its grille and bumper design now appear softer and less dramatic. The facelift’s stronger visual elements help it stand out more clearly in a segment crowded with visually striking rivals.
Verdict: The MG Hector facelift looks more premium and contemporary without losing its identity.
Interior Design and Cabin Experience: A Major Step Forward
MG has invested heavily in improving cabin appeal, making the interior one of the strongest areas where the MG Hector facelift distances itself from the old model.
Facelift Interior Highlights
- All-new 14-inch vertical touchscreen, larger and sharper
- Improved UI with smoother response and better layout
- Soft-touch materials and layered dashboard design
- Updated ambient lighting for a more upscale feel
Old Model Interior
While the older Hector already offered a spacious and feature-rich cabin, its screen size and interface feel dated compared to newer rivals. Material quality was good but lacked the layered sophistication seen in the facelift.
Verdict: The facelift significantly improves perceived luxury and tech appeal.
Features and Technology: Smarter and More Connected
Technology has always been a strong point for MG, and the MG Hector facelift takes this advantage further.
New or Enhanced Features
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Expanded connected-car features via i-SMART
- Improved voice command system
- Digital instrument cluster refinements
- Over-the-air (OTA) update support
Old Model Features
The older Hector still offers many connected features, but the experience feels less seamless. Some functions require more steps, and the screen resolution and speed are noticeably lower.
Verdict: Tech upgrades in the facelift aren’t just bigger—they’re smarter and more user-friendly.
Safety Equipment: Incremental but Important Improvements
Safety continues to be a key consideration for buyers in this segment. While the structural platform remains unchanged, the MG Hector facelift brings subtle but meaningful updates.
Facelift Safety Highlights
- Up to 6 airbags (variant dependent)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill hold and hill descent control
- 360-degree camera (select variants)
- Advanced driver assistance alerts via software updates
Old Model Safety Setup
The older Hector offered essential safety features but lacked some of the advanced assistance and camera-based enhancements available in the facelift.
Verdict: Safety improvements are evolutionary, but they add real-world confidence.
Engine and Performance: Familiar but Refined
Mechanically, MG has chosen consistency over reinvention.
What Remains the Same
- 1.5L turbo-petrol engine
- 2.0L diesel engine
- Manual and automatic transmission options
What’s Improved
- Better throttle calibration
- Smoother gear shifts in automatic variants
- Reduced cabin noise due to improved insulation
The old model was already known for comfort rather than sporty driving, and the MG Hector facelift continues this approach with subtle refinements.
Verdict: Performance is similar, but overall refinement is better in the facelift.
Ride Comfort and Practicality: Still a Strong Point
Both versions of the Hector excel at ride comfort and cabin space.
Shared Strengths
- Excellent rear seat legroom
- Comfortable suspension setup for city and highway
- Large boot space suitable for family travel
However, the facelift’s improved seat cushioning and cabin insulation make long journeys slightly more comfortable.
Verdict: Practicality remains unchanged, comfort improves marginally.
Price Difference and Value Proposition
The MG Hector facelift commands a modest premium over the old model. This price increase is justified when considering:
- Larger touchscreen
- Better interior materials
- Enhanced tech and safety features
- Improved overall refinement
For buyers considering a used or discounted old model, the choice comes down to budget versus features.
MG Hector Facelift vs Old Model: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the MG Hector Facelift If:
- You want the latest tech and interior design
- A modern, premium cabin matters to you
- You plan to keep the car long-term
Choose the Old Model If:
- You find a significant discount
- Exterior and tech upgrades are not priorities
- You want the Hector experience at a lower price point
Final Verdict: A Well-Judged Update
The MG Hector facelift is not a radical transformation, but it doesn’t need to be. By focusing on areas that matter most to modern buyers—interior quality, screen size, connectivity, and refinement—MG has successfully refreshed its flagship SUV.
When comparing MG Hector facelift vs old model, the facelift clearly emerges as the more future-ready and polished option. It retains everything that made the Hector popular while addressing its weakest points. For new buyers, the facelift is the obvious choice. For existing owners, it validates MG’s commitment to continuous improvement rather than superficial updates.
Overall, this is the kind of update that feels thoughtfully engineered, not rushed—exactly what buyers expect in a competitive midsize SUV segment.
