Cart 0
🔍 Second Refresh SPOTTED: 2026 MG Hector Facelift Readies 19-inch Alloys, New Grille & Rear Ventilated Seats
Despite receiving a major facelift in early 2023, JSW MG Motor India is already hard at work preparing a second mid-cycle refresh for its flagship SUV, the MG Hector. Spy shots of a camouflaged test mule have surfaced near the company’s facility in Gujarat, confirming that the 2026 model will receive significant aesthetic and functional upgrades to keep it fiercely competitive against rivals like the Tata Harrier and Mahindra XUV700.
This aggressive update strategy aims to reignite sales, which have slowed in the face of newer, heavily featured competitors. The refreshed Hector is expected to make its debut sometime in 2026.
🎨 Design Overhaul: Bigger Wheels & Bolder Looks
While the core silhouette and sheet metal of the Hector are likely to remain unchanged, MG is focusing on key visual elements to enhance its road presence.
| Component | Expected 2026 Facelift Change | Competitive Advantage |
| Front Grille | Completely Redesigned radiator grille (moving away from the current diamond-mesh pattern). | Provides a fresh, aggressive aesthetic, ensuring the 2026 model looks distinct. |
| Wheels | Introduction of larger 19-inch Dual-Tone Alloy Wheels (up from the current 18-inch). | Visually enhances the SUV’s stance, matching the aggressive wheel sizes offered by the Tata Harrier and Safari. |
| Bumpers | Reworked and reshaped Front and Rear Bumpers with refreshed skid plates. | Minor visual tweaks to give the exterior a sportier, more contemporary appeal. |
| Lighting | Graphics for the headlights and connected LED taillamps may be slightly tweaked. | Maintains the Hector’s signature split-headlamp design while modernizing the light signature. |
💻 Interior & Feature Updates: Focus on Comfort and Tech
The Hector has always been known as the “Internet Inside” car, and the 2026 refresh focuses on refining the user experience and adding crucial comfort features.
| Feature Upgrade | Detail Confirmed / Expected | Customer Benefit |
| Infotainment Screen | Retention of the massive 14-inch Portrait Touchscreen, but with faster processor and improved touch response. | Addresses current user feedback regarding minor lag and makes the primary control interface smoother. |
| Comfort | Introduction of Ventilated Rear Seats (in addition to existing front ventilation). | Segment-leading comfort feature, highly valued in the Indian climate, targeting chauffeur-driven owners. |
| Controls | Speculation about the addition of few physical buttons for climate control. | Improves ergonomics and reduces reliance on the touchscreen for critical functions while driving. |
| ADAS | Enhancement of the Level 2 ADAS Suite (expected to add more features to lower diesel trims). | Boosts safety parity with rivals like the XUV700, offering features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist. |
⚙️ Powertrain & The Diesel Auto Question
Mechanically, the 2026 Hector is expected to remain largely unchanged, focusing on reliability and proven performance. However, one key change is desperately sought after by customers.
| Engine Type | Specifications | Transmission | Key Update/Speculation |
| 1.5L Turbo Petrol | $141 \text{ hp} / 250 \text{ Nm}$ | 6-speed Manual, CVT Automatic | Expected to retain mild-hybrid options for fuel efficiency. |
| 2.0L Turbo Diesel | $168 \text{ hp} / 350 \text{ Nm}$ | 6-speed Manual | Strong Speculation for a Diesel Automatic: This remains the single biggest demand from customers and could be a game-changer if introduced. |
🎥 Video: Hector vs. Harrier – Why This Facelift is Critical
Watch a comparison of the current Hector against its main rival to understand the competitive gap the 2026 facelift aims to bridge:
[Search YouTube for: “2026 MG Hector Facelift Expected Changes vs Rivals” or “MG Hector vs Tata Harrier 2025 comparison”]
Unmatched Features and Connectivity
The Hyundai Exter is packed with an array of features that set it apart from its competitors. The micro SUV boasts a spacious interior and offers a boot space of 391 litres, providing ample room for both passengers and luggage. Additionally, the Exter comes equipped with a dual-channel dashcam, electric sunroof, and six airbags as standard, ensuring the safety and convenience of its occupants.
Hyundai has also focused on connectivity features, with the Exter offering an 8-inch infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. This enables seamless integration of smartphones, allowing users to access their favorite apps and stay connected on the go. The Exter also comes with connected car technology, enabling users to remotely control various functions of the vehicle through their smartphones.
Hyundai’s SUV Dominance in India
With the launch of the Exter, Hyundai has further strengthened its position as a leading SUV manufacturer in India. According to Unsoo Kim, the India MD and CEO of Hyundai, the
company is now the only manufacturer offering products in all six SUV sub-segments. This highlights Hyundai’s commitment to catering to diverse customer needs and preferences.
Tarun Garg, the COO of Hyundai Motor India, expects the Exter to contribute significantly to the company’s overall sales volume. He predicts that the entry-level SUV segment could witness monthly sales of 20,000-22,000 units with the introduction of the Exter. This indicates the immense potential of the micro SUV in the Indian market.
Investment and Future Prospects
Hyundai has invested a substantial amount of Rs 950 crore in the development of the Exter for the Indian market. This investment showcases the company’s confidence in the potential of the micro SUV segment and its commitment to providing customers with high-quality products.
The Exter’s launch is expected to drive Hyundai’s overall SUV portfolio sales even further. Garg mentioned that SUVs currently account for 54% of Hyundai’s total sales in India, a significant increase from 34% in 2019. This highlights the growing preference for SUVs among Indian consumers and the positive impact the Exter can have on Hyundai’s market position.
Competition and Market Dynamics
The Hyundai Exter faces direct competition from Tata Motors’ Punch, another popular offering in the entry-level SUV segment. Tata Punch has garnered significant attention in the market, with current monthly sales numbers at around 11,000 units. However, Hyundai aims to challenge Tata’s dominance with the Exter’s competitive pricing, attractive features, and Hyundai’s brand reputation.
The entry-level SUV segment has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for compact and affordable SUVs. With its stylish design, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Hyundai Exter is poised to capture a substantial market share and attract customers looking for a compact SUV that offers great value for money.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Exter’s entry into the Indian market has generated significant buzz, thanks to its competitive pricing, impressive features, and Hyundai’s strong brand presence. With its attractive design, powerful engine options, and advanced connectivity features, the Exter is set to redefine the entry-level SUV segment in India. Hyundai’s investment in the Exter highlights its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers and further strengthening its position as a leading SUV manufacturer. As the micro SUV segment continues to grow, the Hyundai Exter is poised to make a lasting impact and win the hearts of Indian SUV enthusiasts.
