India's first internet car, MG Hector SUV unveiled: Details here
What's the story
British automaker MG Motor has unveiled its MG Hector SUV in India. The SUV, set to arrive in June, offers a bunch of hi-tech features like eSIM support, smartphone integration, voice assistant, and over-the-air updates. In India, it is expected to arrive at a price of around Rs. 15 lakh (ex-showroom). Here's everything to know about MG Hector SUV.
Features
MG Hector: At a glance
The MG Hector sports a bulky, muscular stance with a large grille, sleek headlights and a tapering roof that culminates into a curved tailgate. On the inside, a 10.4-inch vertically-mounted touchscreen infotainment panel takes center-stage. There is also an India-centric voice assistant that can open/close windows and control air conditioning, alongside several other things it can do.
Connected living
The iSmart platform brings smartphone like experience to the car
Alongside the infotainment panel and an AI-powered voice assistant, it also gets eSIM support as part of the iSmart platform. Hence, with an Internet-enabled SIM, it receives over-the-air software updates - just like your smartphone. Moreover, there is a TomTom-powered built-in navigation system which gets updated using the car's internet connectivity while an eCall response system can alert contacts in case of an emergency.
Smart stuff
You can also control key functions using your smartphone
MG Motor has also offered a companion iSmart mobile app that provides information like the location of the car, tire pressure, and service history. The app also lets you remotely switch on the air conditioner and close the doors if left open. Moreover, you can also use the app to geo-fence your MG Hector, restricting its movement to a pre-defined zone.
Under the hood
Meanwhile, here's a look at Hector's engine power and performance
The India-bound Hector is available in three engine options including a Fiat-sourced 2.0-liter Multijet diesel engine that makes 168bhp of power of and 350Nm of torque. Further, out of the two petrol motors, one is a 1.5-liter turbocharged unit that churns out 141bhp of power and 250Nm of torque. The third is a hybrid setup with a 48V system added to the petrol model.
Information
Pricing and availability
Though MG Motor has not revealed the price of Hector SUV, it is expected to be launched at around Rs. 15 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. The SUV will lock horns with Tata Harrier, Hyundai Tuscon, and Jeep Compass in the country.