Updated MG Hector Petrol-Only at Launch, Diesel Version Expected Next Year

MG Motor India has officially rolled out the MG Hector facelift in the Indian market. While the SUV receives updates and a refreshed appeal, the launch comes with an important condition. At present the Hector is offered only with a petrol engine and customers who prefer a diesel option will need to wait longer

MG has confirmed that the diesel powered MG Hector will arrive in 2026, not at the time of this facelift launch

MG Hector Facelift Petrol Engine Details

For now the MG Hector facelift petrol engine lineup remains unchanged. MG has continued with the same proven motor to ensure reliability and smooth performance.

Petrol Engine Specifications

• 1.5 liter turbocharged petrol engine
• Power output: 143 bhp
• Torque: 250 Nm
• Transmission options:
• 6 speed manual
• CVT automatic

This setup focuses on comfort easy city driving and smooth highway cruising, especially for buyers choosing the automatic version

Why The Diesel MG Hector Is Delayed

MG Motor India has not given a detailed official reason for postponing the diesel version. However industry trends give a clear picture of what may have influenced the decision

Possible reasons include:

• Higher costs of diesel vehicles due to strict emission rules
• Growing demand for petrol and automatic SUVs, especially in cities
• Better acceptance of petrol engines among urban buyers

Despite this shift, diesel engines remain important in India. Large SUV buyers with high usage still prefer diesel for its torque and fuel efficiency especially for long highway drives

MG Hector Facelift Price And Variants

One of the biggest highlights of the launch is the pricing. The MG Hector facelift price starts at Rs 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom) making it competitive in the mid size SUV segment

Pricing And Variant Details

• Starting price: Rs 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Available in multiple variants
• Offered in five seat and seven seat layouts

This pricing places the Hector within reach of a wide group of buyers looking for a feature rich SUV

Five-Seat And Seven-Seat Options Strengthen Hector’s Practical Appeal

Another strong point of the MG Hector facelift is flexibility. MG is offering the SUV in both five seat and seven seat configurations.

This allows the Hector to attract:

• Small families looking for comfort
• Larger families needing extra seating
• Buyers upgrading from compact SUVs

The seven seat option helps the Hector appeal to buyers considering MPVs or larger SUVs

MG Hector Facelift Rivals In The Segment

With its pricing and size the MG Hector facelift competes in a crowded segment

Key rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta
• Kia Seltos
• Hyundai Alcazar
• Kia Carens Clavis
• Upcoming Mahindra XUV 7XO

Each of these models offers different engine and seating options, making competition strong

What This Means For Buyers

For buyers planning an immediate purchase, the petrol-only strategy simplifies the decision

• Petrol buyers can go ahead without waiting
• Automatic buyers get a smooth CVT option
• Diesel-focused buyers may prefer to wait until 2026

The Hector continues to offer strong road presence, space, and features, even without a diesel option at launch

The launch of the MG Hector facelift with only a petrol engine marks a clear shift in MG Motor India’s short-term strategy. With prices starting at Rs 11.99 lakh and strong competition from established rivals, the Hector continues to be a key player in the mid-size SUV space

While the absence of a diesel option may disappoint some buyers today, MG’s promise of introducing it in 2026 keeps expectations alive for those willing to wait