From the driver’s seat, the only thing new to notice is the dual-tone dashboard. The earlier black accent is now brown to match the new brown leatherette upholstery. Apart from that, things remain the same. You get a nice and chunky leather-wrapped steering, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10.4-inch touchscreen in a minimalistic layout.
In terms of features, MG has added a new ‘Chit-Chat’ function to the infotainment system. This is similar (in theory) to the one Mercedes has on its MBUX systems. However, the one here is not very polished. In our tests, the voice assistant kept giving us random answers or current location for multiple questions like “how are you?”, “how am I looking?” and “where are you from?” The only one it could get right consistently was “are you alive?”. And for that too, the answer wasn’t quirky enough. And to know what that is, check out our video review. MG could have polished this feature more before rolling it out in the car.
The cabin remains fairly loaded with features. You get eight colour ambient lights, power-adjustable seats for the driver and co-driver, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 55+ connected car features, a brilliant 8-speaker Infinity sound system, heated ORVMs, auto headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. The touchscreen experience feels better than before with less latency in operation.
Second Row
The addition of a third row has helped MG make the second row even plusher with the help of captain seats. These seats are well-bolstered and get individual armrests as well. This makes them a lot more comfortable than the usual bench seat. Plus, you can slide and recline them. Pushing them all the way back opens tonnes of legroom to stretch out for someone my height (5’7”). Recline them a bit more and this makes for a very comfortable long-distance traveller. Plus, if you are usually chauffeured around, the backseat now is the ideal place to be in. Adjustable headrests further help the comfort factor and headroom, despite the panoramic sunroof, is plenty.
Another thing you will appreciate is the airiness of the cabin. Large windows, a low widow line and the massive sunroof make for a very open cabin. The brown leatherette upholstery further helps open it up visually. Practicality aspect is taken care of by a USB charger, rear AC vents, storage space in the centre console and bottle holders in the doors. The only thing missing here are window shades and cup holders, both of which would have elevated the captain seat experience to a higher level.
Third Row
Access to the third row is tricky and hasn’t been well thought out. The second-row seats only recline and slide forward, they don’t tumble. This means you have barely a few inches of clearance between the door and the captain seats. Getting directly into the third row is not advised for any and all ages. The way you have to get in then is by walking in between the captain seats.
At the back, given the middle row has been adjusted for someone my height, there is just enough room for me to squeeze in. Width is enough for even two regular-sized adults to sit side by side. Knee room and legroom for the third row are adequate. But with the feet tucked below the middle row seats, you sit pointing outwards, and that makes it a bit uncomfortable. Adults will have to keep a leg in the aisle between the captain seats to get comfortable. Also, the seats are low and you sit knees up, something which will tire you in longer journeys. Another issue here is outside visibility. The windows are small and higher up, making you feel a bit cooped up. Overall, these seats can seat kids and it’s best if the adults stick to the captain seats.
As far as features are concerned, MG has given a fair bit of attention to the third-row passengers as well. They get cup holders, a USB charger and their very own AC vents with a fan speed controller. The placement of these vents, however, makes them a bit tricky to adjust. On the plus side, the third row does get three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests.
Boot Space
The Hector’s boot, at 587-litres, was plenty for the weekend luggage. Luckily, the third-row hasn’t eaten too much of that space when folded down. At 530-litres, you will still manage to keep all kinds of bags and suitcases with ease in the boot. With the third row up, you only get 155-litres, good for a couple of small bags and a small suitcase.
This time around, you also get the smart swipe feature. Just kick an imaginary ball out from underneath the rear bumper and the electric tailgate opens up. This function works 7 out of 10 times and is quite handy if your hands are full with heavy bags, and you cannot raise them even slightly to press a button. Or, you are just looking to show off.
