India's 2026 MG Hector Facelift Launches with a Petrol-Only Lineup for the Time Being
  • The 2026 MG Hector facelift, which starts at ₹11.99 lakh, features a new exterior and interior improvements.

  • Only gasoline-powered vehicles are available at launch; MG intends to launch diesel models the following year.

MG has made a major change to its mid-size SUV lineup with the official launch of the 2026 facelift of the well-liked Hector SUV in India. The reworked front grille, new alloy wheel options, updated color options like Celadon Blue, and minor adjustments to the bumpers and lighting system are just a few of the enhanced exterior design features of the remodeled Hector.

Upgrades to technology and comfort amenities, including a big portrait-style touchscreen with gesture controls, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof that improve the driving experience overall, have given the interior of the cabin a more upscale feel.

Competitive Costs for Gasoline-Powered Models

With the base five-seater model in the petrol-only range starting at ₹11.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the redesigned MG Hector is reasonably priced. The Hector Plus's higher trim levels, which come in six- and seven-seat configurations, are more expensive; the seven-seater starts at about ₹17.29 lakh (ex-showroom).

The updated Hector is more appealing in the congested SUV market since it is less expensive than other outgoing models.

Now Petrol, Soon Diesel

MG announced at launch that the 2026 Hector facelift will only come with a gasoline engine. This drivetrain consists of the well-known 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, which generates about 143 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. It is mated to a CVT automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.

Due to changing pollution regulations and a greater market demand for gasoline and automatic models in cities, MG has chosen to postpone the launch of diesel versions until sometime in 2026. The diesel variant is anticipated to appeal to consumers who value long-distance use and fuel economy when it arrives.

What This Signifies for Purchasers

The petrol facelift offers an appealing combination with updated style and feature updates at an affordable price range for those currently interested in the Hector. But those who are especially looking for diesel power will have to wait until next year, when diesel-powered Hector models will be introduced. Until then, MG maintains the Hector's status as a formidable competitor against competitors like the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Kia Seltos and Alcazar, and Hyundai Creta.

Also read:

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  3. Mahindra Scorpio-N Facelift expected to launch in early 2026, featuring enhanced technology, new styling, and retaining its tough DNA

Nikita

Content Intern

Nikita is a writer who finds stories in the small details most people overlook. With a deep love for observing the world and an ever-growing curiosity about how things work, she hopes to become a journalist someday. Beyond the world of words, Nikita is a passionate theatre enthusiast who believes every stage tells a story worth listening to. At work, she combines a love for storytelling and automobiles, turning car launches, updates, and trends into pieces that inform and inspire readers.