Mahindra’s flagship large SUV, the XUV700, saw strong sales at launch in 2021, making it a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment. It competes with the recently facelifted MG Hector Plus, another popular 7-seater SUV in the Indian Automobile market. The MG Hector Plus received a revised front fascia and updated interior during its launch on Jan 11th, 2023 at the Auto Expo 2023 in Delhi, which is expected to garner more interest from buyers. Both vehicles are available in 7-seater options, as well as 5- and 6-seater versions. A comparison of the Mahindra XUV700 VS MG Hector Plus will help us determine which one is the right SUV for you. Let’s have a closer look at the MG Hector Plus VS XUV700 in terms of engine, specifications features and price.
MG Hector Plus Vs Mahindra XUV700 – Engine and Driving
What are the engine specifications, performance capabilities and technical specifications of the MG Hector Plus VS XUV700?
The MG Hector Plus comes equipped with a 1.5 litre petrol engine producing 141 HP and 250 Nm of torque. It is paired to either a CVT, DCT or manual 6-speed transmission. Additionally, there is a 2.0 litre diesel, four cylinder on offer which generates 169 HP and 350 Nm of torque. Unfortunately, it only gets a 6-speed manual transmission without an automatic option. This means that ADAS technology systems are not available for the diesel variant.
The Mahindra XUV700 on the other hand gets a 2.0 litre Turbo mStallion petrol engine that generates 195 HP and 380 Nm or a 2.2 litre commonrail Turbo diesel mHawk power unit produces 153 HP and 360 Nm of torque. There are both manual and automatic transmissions on offer for the XUV700.
The Mahindra XUV700 offers more power for a thrilling driving experience, but the MG Hector Plus has smooth power delivery and a comfortable ride thanks to supple suspension settings. The XUV700 also has an all-wheel-drive option in its top variants, while the MG Hector Plus has a convenient CVT or DCT automatic transmission for city driving. The XUV700 tends to get a little loud in the high rev range which could hamper driver and passenger comfort.
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MG Hector Plus Vs XUV 700 – Dimensions and Features
The Mahindra XUV700 is wider than the MG Hector Plus, despite the latter being longer and taller. However, since the wheelbase is similar on both, the XUV700’s width allows for more usable space, particularly in terms of shoulder room for passengers. It definitely feels roomy in the XUV cabin. The XUV700’s third row is more spacious, while the MG Hector Plus has slightly more storage space due to its larger boot.
Both SUVs, MG Hector Plus VS XUV700, offer a wide range of upmarket and advanced features that provide exceptional comfort and convenience in their respective cabins. However, each large SUV has unique features that the other doesn’t offer. The MG Hector Plus boasts a hands-free tailgate and ventilated front seats with leather upholstery while the Mahindra XUV700 offers a digital instrument cluster and various drive modes in its diesel variants. Additionally, the XUV700’s sound system is a standout feature for those who want top-of-the-line in-car entertainment.
The Mahindra XUV700 excels in the safety department compared to its rivals, including the MG Hector Plus. While the Hector Plus has standard safety features such as front parking sensors, the XUV700 surpasses it with additional features such as an extra airbags, auto-hold function and a Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). The ADAS system in the XUV700 includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, high beam assist, forward-collision warning, lane keep assist, traffic signal recognition and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, the XUV700 has a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. The MG Hector Plus has a sturdy chassis, but the XUV700 offers more peace of mind with its advanced safety features.
MG Hector Plus Vs Mahindra XUV 700 – Specifications, Features, Dimensions and Price
The MG Hector Plus starts off at Rs.17.50 lakh for the Smart 1.5 Turbo Manual 7 Seater Petrol version and can go up to Rs.22.43 lakh for the top end variant. The Mahindra XUV700 is priced at Rs.13.45 lakh for the MX Petrol MT 5 STR variant going up to Rs.25.47 lakh for the AX Diesel AT AWD Luxury Pack 7 STR. Let’s compare the specifications, features and dimensions of these two best selling SUVs.
| MG Hector Plus | Mahindra XUV700 | |
| Variant | Smart 1.5 Turbo MT 7 STR | MX Petrol MT 5 STR |
| Engine | 1,451 cc, 4 cylinders, DOHC | 1,997 cc, 4 cylinders, DOHC |
| Type | Turbocharged 1.5 litre with Intercooler | 2.0 litre Turbocharged with Direct Ignition |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Max Power (bhp@rpm) | 141 bhp @ 5,000 rpm | 197 bhp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Max Torque (Nm@rpm) | 250 Nm @ 1,600 rpm | 380 Nm @ 1,750 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | 6 Speed Manual | Manual – 6 Speed |
| Emission Standard | BS6 | BS6 |
| Turbocharger | Yes | Yes |
| Regenerative Braking | No | Yes |
| Idle Start/Stop | No | Yes |
| Length (mm) | 4720 mm | 4695 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1835 mm | 1890 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 192 mm | – |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating | 7 Persons | 5 Persons |
| No. of seating rows | 3 | 2 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 litres | 60 litres |
| Boot space (litres) | 155 litres | – |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Struts | MacPherson Struts |
| Rear Suspension | Semi Independent Helical Spring | Multi-link Independent Suspension |
| Front Brake | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake | Disc | Disc |
| Steering | Electric Power Steering | Hydraulic Power Steering |
| Wheels | Alloy Wheels | Steel Wheels |
| Front Tyres | 215/55 R18 | 235/65 R17 |
| Rear Tyres | 215/55 R18 | 235/65 R17 |
| Overspeed Warning | Yes | Yes |
| NCAP rating | – | Global NCAP 5 stars |
| Airbags | 4 airbags | 2 airbags |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring System | Yes | No |
| ABS | Yes | Yes |
| EBD | Yes | Yes |
| BA | Yes | No |
| ESP | Yes | No |
| Hill Hold Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | No |
| Air Conditioner | Yes Manual | Yes Manual |
| Parking Assist | Reverse Camera | No |
| Parking Sensor | Front and Rear | Rear |
| Cruise Control | Yes | No |
| Keyless Start Button | Yes | No |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt and Telescopic | Tilt |
| 12 Volt Power Outlet | Yes | No |
| Seat Upholstery | Leather | Fabric |
| Driver’s seat adjustment | 6 ways electrically adjustable | 8 ways manually adjustable |
| Leather Wrapped Steering | Yes | No |
| Headlights | LED | Halogen |
| Tail Lights | LED | LED |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Halogen |
| Instrument Cluster | Analogue – Digital | Digital |
| Smart Connectivity | Android Auto, Apple Car Play | Android Auto |
| Battery Warranty | No | Not Applicable |
| Warranty (Years) | 5 Years | 3 Years |
| Warranty (km) | Unlimited | Unlimited |
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Pros & Cons of the Mahindra XUV700
It appears the Mahindra XUV700 is offering good value for money with its flagship 7-seater SUV. The top spec, diesel variant makes a great purchase with its impressive features, space, safety and performance.
Let’s have a look at some of the likable features versus not so good points of buying a Mahindra XUV700.
Positive Aspects
- Impressive road presence – The XUV700s large size ensures you get seen on the road and it has good visual appeal. The SUV has a commanding appearance.
- Ride and handling – good driving dynamics that can tackle any terrain
- Powerful engine options – despite its large size, the engines are powerful enough to get this large SUV moving.
- Comfortable and spacious cabin – compared to rivals such as the Hyundai Alcazar and Tata Safari.
Areas For Improvement
- Noisy diesel engine – the power unit tends to get loud when accelerating which may not be ideal for a refined driving experience.
- Stiff ride quality – The XUV700s suspension is on the firmer side which can get quite uncomfortable at slower speeds.
- Access to third row – The last row of seats can get difficult to access due to the lack of a sliding second row. Limited space makes it challenging for passengers to enter/exit the rear benches.
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Pros & Cons of the MG Hector Plus
The Hector Plus builds on all the features the Hector was known for in a longer and more spacious cabin. This large size SUV aims to attract buyers with its stylish exteriors and refined powertrain.
Here are some good things verus features that could be better on the MG Hector Plus.
Advantages
- Smooth powertrains – The MG Hector Plus does well in the NVH department with adequate power and low noise. Transmission is smooth and refined.
- Impressive exterior design – The SUV boasts a massive grille combined with striking body lines and lots of chrome. It has an imposing stance indeed.
- Good for long distance travel – The soft suspension and smooth engine is ideal for long distance runs.
- Spacious rear seats – the third row offers a lot of space and comfort for three full sized adults with plenty of leg and headroom.
Could Be Better
- Petrol power plant – Not the most dynamic engine on the market and may lack sufficient power during hard acceleration
- No diesel automatic – the diesel engine is not offered with an automatic transmission which may irk some drivers
- Ride comfort – Too much body roll due to the soft suspension setup. Results in a floaty, unstable ride. Not ideal for spirited driving.
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Conclusion
The MG Hector Plus is available in 12 variants, whereas the Mahindra XUV700 has a wider range of options with 23 variants. This gives buyers more options to choose from. Both SUVs are equipped with a range of features and powertrains, making them both powerful and convenient options. However, if you plan on mostly driving in urban areas, the Hector Plus offers better drivability. Additionally, it has the option of captain seats in the middle row which the XUV700 does not have. On the other hand, if safety is a top priority, the Mahindra XUV700 is the better choice, offering a higher level of safety features and rugged appeal.
Be sure to checkout the Carorbis Blog for more amazing head-to-head comparisons such as Kia Carens vs Hyundai Alcazar and Mahindra XUV700 vs Hyundai Alcazar
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Mg Hector Plus Worth Buying?
Ans. There are a lot of good points about the MG Hector Plus such as a host of features, comfortable cabin, excellent engine performance and a premium look and feel. However, the MG brand image is not something Indian car buyers look up to at the moment and the SUV suffers from poor handling.
Q2. Is Mg Hector Plus a Good Car?
Ans. At Rs. 17.50 lakh for the Smart 1.5 Turbo MT 7 STR, the MG Hector Plus is an expensive SUV but worth the money for the value it offers. With the recent facelift released on Jan 11, 2023, the Hector Plus gets a new facia and updated cabin with Level 2 ADAS function. Direct rivals to the Hector Plus include the Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari and Mahindra Scorpio.
Q3. Which Has Better Mileage, the Mahindra Xuv700 Vs Mg Hector Plus?
Ans. The petrol versions of both cars have a similar mileage of 12 kmpl but the diesel MG Hector Plus gets better fuel economy of 17 kmpl as compared the diesel Mahindra XUV700 at 12 kmpl.
Q4. What Safety Features Are Available on the Mg Hector Plus?
Ans. The MG Hector Plus does not have an NCAP rating yet, but it does come with Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, rear parking sensors, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Hold Control, ABS, EBD with brake assist, all 4-disc brakes, automatic speed sensing door locks, high speed alert and seat belt reminder system.
Q5. What Safety Features Can I Expect on the Base Model of the Mahindra Xuv700?
Ans. The base variant of the Mahindra XUV700 comes with a range of standard safety features, including ABS, EBD, adjustable headrests, seatbelt warning, rear parking sensors, dual airbags, speed sensing door locks and child seat anchor mounts (ISOFIX). Additionally, the XUV700 received a 5-star rating in the global N-CAP test, a testament to its high level of safety.
Q6. What is the on-road Cost of the Base Model of the Mg Hector Plus Based on the Average Ex-showroom Price?
Ans: The base model of the MG Hector Plus has an average on-road price of Rs. 17.50 Lakh for the Hector Plus Smart 1.5 Turbo MT 7 STR Petrol and Rs. 19.76 Lakh for the Hector Plus Smart 2.0 Turbo Diesel 7 STR Diesel. The on-road price includes the ex-showroom price, RTO registration, road tax, and insurance costs.
