Can the new Corporate variant of the Hyundai Alcazar take on its contenders?
MG Hector Plus
is based on the Hector and is a key competitor to the Alcazar. It comes with three engine options, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission.
The Hector Plus offers a range of premium features and stands out for its comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
Tata Safari
is a familiar name in India's automotive market, dating back to 1998. With its latest facelift, the Safari looks even more premium. The update brings a host of new technologies, including a 12.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a panoramic sunroof. As a seven-seater, it has a larger engine than the Alcazar, with more torque and power.
On the safety front, it's received a 5-star rating from Global NCAP. With its OMEGA architecture, it features seven airbags, emergency call assistance, and an advanced ESP system with 17 safety features.
The
Mahindra XUV700
is a strong alternative to the Alcazar, thanks to its range of advanced features. Inside, you'll find a large touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, driver drowsiness detection, and ADAS level 2 with features like automated emergency braking and lane departure warning.
The XUV700 offers two engine options: a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The suspension system and monocoque structure provide good control and stability, resulting in less body roll when cornering.
The
Kia Carens
and Hyundai Alcazar facelift have a lot in common, but the Carens really stands out for its affordability, offering a well-appointed cabin. Unlike the Alcazar, which has a more SUV-like silhouette, the Carens still looks like an MPV. Although it doesn't have the same premium features as the Alcazar, it makes up for it with a welcome iMT gearbox, providing the best of both worlds - the ease of an automatic and the thrill of a manual.
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Hindustan Times
05-08-2025
- Hindustan Times
MG introduces limited period discounts on Hector and Astor, prices start at ₹9.99 lakh
To celebrate six years of operations in the country, JSW MG Motor has launched special anniversary prices for some variants of the Hector and Astor SUVs. Limited-period price cuts, along with additional financial convenience like 100 per cent on-road funding and EMI holiday choices, are being offered by the company to draw in new customers during the festive period. The MG Hector Sharp Pro MT, one of the higher-end variants of the petrol lineup, is now available at an effective ex-showroom price of ₹ 19.59 lakh. MG Hector: Discounts Among the notable price cuts, the MG Hector Sharp Pro MT, one of the higher-end variants of the petrol lineup, is now available at an effective ex-showroom price of ₹19.59 lakh. Diesel and CVT variants continue to be priced higher. Across the Hector lineup—including the standard, 6-seater, and 7-seater Hector Plus models—several trims appear to benefit from anniversary price positioning. Also check these Cars Find more Cars MG Cyberster 77 kWh 77 kWh 580 km 580 km ₹ 75 Lakhs Compare View Offers MG Astor 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.48 Lakhs Compare View Offers UPCOMING MG Euniq 7 84 kWh 84 kWh 605 km 605 km ₹ 30 - 35 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched UPCOMING MG 5 Estate 61.1 kWh 61.1 kWh 400 km 400 km ₹ 50 - 60 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched MG Hector 1956 cc 1956 cc Multiple Multiple ₹ 14.25 Lakhs Compare View Offers MG Hector Plus 1956 cc 1956 cc Multiple Multiple ₹ 17.50 Lakhs Compare View Offers Also Read : MG Cyberster EV: Track Test Review Although the company has not specified how long these discounts will last, it has clarified that prices are valid for a limited time only and may vary based on variant and availability. MG Astor: Discounts Apart from the Hector, MG is also launching a lower starting price on the Astor, its sub-compact SUV offering. The base Astor Sprint trim now begins at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting quite a few rivals in the segment. This launch pricing seems to be a part of a bigger strategy to generate interest in the Astor lineup during the brand's anniversary phase. More specification Astor models, such as ADAS models, ventilated seats, and the i-SMART 2.0 connected car package, are more expensive and do not seem to be included in the special offer. JSW MG Motor India: Financial flexibility and discounts MG has also stated financing advantages, such as 100 per cent on-road price funding and the ability to take EMI holidays, at the discretion of associated financial institutions. These schemes are likely intended to lower the upfront ownership barrier during a time of celebration for the brand. Also watch: MG M9 EV first drive review: Luxury made sustainable JSW MG Motor India: Six year milestone in India Launched in India in 2019, MG has completed six years of operations, and both the Hector and Astor have become key models in its lineup. As part of its sixth anniversary, MG Motor seems to be using this pricing initiative to retain its competitiveness in an increasingly price-sensitive SUV market. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date:
News18
04-08-2025
- News18
MG Motor Completes 6 Years Of Business In India, Launches Limited-time Pricing On SUVs
Last Updated: After seeing the positive response, the brand has launched a special price range on MG Hector and MG Astor. The leading carmaker JSW MG Motor, has finally completed 6 years of business in the Indian market. During this period, the company has received an overwhelming response from the customers, especially for Hector and Astor. After seeing the positive response, the brand has launched a special price range on both models. As per the details shared by MG Motor, India's first internet car – Hector, can now be purchased at the anniversary price range of Rs 19.59 L (ex-showroom, pan-India). This is applicable to the Sharp Pro MT variant, which will remain the same for a limited period. When it comes to the Astor, the model is now available at the starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). All About MG Hector The MG Hector was introduced in 2019, and continues to dominate the market with its cutting-edge technology, bold design, massive size and performance. Over the years, the model has attracted a large number of customers, allowing them to expirence a rooted driving expirence on any terrain. MG Astor Talking about the Astor, it is considered a Blockbuster SUV, which offers over 50 Safety features, impressive driving expirence, premium interiors and a long list of trending features. The list includes panoramic sunroof, 14 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ventilated front row seats, wireless charger, auto-dimming IRVM, among others. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Time of India
Six years of MG Hector: The connected car trend starter
Launched on June 27, 2019, the MG Hector marked a significant entry into India's mid-size SUV segment, bringing with it several firsts in design, technology, and ownership experience. Priced between ₹12.18 lakh and ₹16.88 lakh (ex-showroom) at launch, the Hector positioned itself as India's first internet SUV. It was introduced not just as a product but as a technology platform backed by a suite of global partners and a strong consumer-focused value proposition. The Hector was based on a global platform but underwent extensive re-engineering to suit Indian road conditions and consumer expectations. The name 'Hector' was chosen to symbolise strength, trust, and dependability—traits drawn from the mythological Trojan warrior Prince Hector of Troy. These values were reflected in the SUV's design, features, and technology integration. The company collaborated with technology players like Microsoft, Adobe, SAP, Cisco, TomTom, Gaana, Unlimit, and Nuance to build a connected mobility ecosystem. Its proprietary iSMART platform was a core part of this effort. AI-powered Voice Assist system One of the standout features of the Hector was its AI-powered Voice Assist system developed specifically for Indian users. With support for over 100 commands and the ability to function under poor network conditions, the voice system was built to understand Indian accents and preferences. Activated by the phrase 'Hello MG', it allowed users to control functions such as window operation, sunroof, navigation, and air conditioning. The SUV also offered what was then India's largest HD touchscreen display at 10.4 inches, integrated with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone connectivity. Consumer response was swift and substantial. Within 23 days of pre-orders opening, the company received over 10,000 bookings. By the end of the first month, bookings had crossed the 21,000 mark, forcing the company to temporarily pause further orders. MG also backed the Hector with a five-year warranty with unlimited kilometres, five years of roadside assistance, and zero labour charges for the first five scheduled services—aiming to lower ownership anxiety for early adopters. Back then, the Hector was introduced in four variants with eleven combinations across three engine options: petrol, petrol-hybrid, and diesel. It was also the first in its segment to feature a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which offered additional torque support of up to 20 Nm and enhanced fuel efficiency. According to ARAI figures, the petrol hybrid MT delivered 15.81 km per litre, while the diesel version offered 17.41 km per litre. Safety was also a priority, with 25 features provided as standard. In July 2020, MG expanded the Hector family with the launch of the Hector Plus—a six-seater SUV with added comfort features and a panoramic sunroof. Priced at ₹13.48 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hector Plus was built at MG's manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat. It was positioned as a more family-oriented alternative with a focus on space and in-cabin tech. Rollout of the 50,000th Hector Production milestones followed quickly. In February 2021, MG celebrated the rollout of the 50,000th Hector, manufactured by an all-women crew at the company's Halol plant. This initiative highlighted MG's emphasis on diversity and inclusive growth in its manufacturing workforce, with women leading production, welding, painting, and quality testing. In January 2023, MG introduced the next-generation Hector with significant feature upgrades. These included Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Traffic Jam Assist and Intelligent Auto Turn Indicators. The SUV also featured a redesigned Argyle-inspired diamond mesh grille, a 14-inch vertical touchscreen infotainment system (the largest in the segment), a digital Bluetooth key with key-sharing capability, and an upgraded iSMART interface with over 75 connected features. Resale and ownership metrics have also played in Hector's favour. According to data from vehicle platform Droom, the Hector retains 70 to 75 per cent of its resale value, outperforming several competitors in the segment. This strong resale is complemented by low maintenance costs, estimated at around ₹500 per month on average. Fuel efficiency on the diesel variant has also been a key strength, with highway mileage reported at up to 21 km per litre. As it completes six years in the Indian market, the MG Hector has carved out a space for itself as a technology-forward SUV with an ownership experience aimed at long-term reliability and value. From being India's first internet car to adding new benchmarks in connected tech, it remains a noteworthy case study in how to localise and differentiate in an evolving auto landscape.
