Morris Garages has partially unveiled its upcoming compact SUV, the MG Astor last week. It will get the segment's first personal AI (artificial intelligence) assistant and Autonomous Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). We expect the brand to offer these features with the Hector after the launch of the Astor SUV in the Indian market.
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But why do we think so? Well, there are certain factors that we need to consider. First, the upcoming Astor will be positioned below Hector in MG's product lineup. So ideally, it is not appropriate that a product of a lower class be superior to its elder sibling. Second, Hector's Indonesian-spec version (Wuling Almaz) already comes with level-1 ADAS tech with features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, and lane departure warning, etc. Third, MG Hector's upcoming rival Mahindra XUV700 will also get Level-2 Driver Assistance Systems, so this move seems justified to stay in the competition. However, the brand is yet to share any words on this matter.
Speaking about artificial intelligence, the MG Hector already comes with an in-built AI with Natural Language Understanding (NLU) function. However, the Astor additionally features a small robot-type device placed on the top of the dashboard that even turns to the person interacting with it and displays emotions, making the overall experience more interactive and interesting.
Mechanically, the MG Hector is expected to remain unchanged. It will continue to be available with three powertrain options – 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol with a 48V hybrid system, and 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engines. While all these mills get a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, the petrol engine also comes with a choice of 7-speed DCT and CVT automatic transmissions.
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We believe these features could be restricted to the top-spec variants of the MG Hector and will definitely demand a significant premium over the SUV’s current price range of Rs 13.49 lakh to Rs 19.20 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It will continue to take on the likes of the Tata Harrier, Jeep Compass, Hyundai Tucson, Mahindra XUV500, and the higher-spec variants of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Skoda Kushaq.
