MG Motor India’s top-selling Hector SUV might soon receive the ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) and AI (artificial intelligence) assistant. The upcoming MG Astor will be the brand’s first vehicle to feature AI technology and second to offer ADAS (after Gloster). The ADAS includes multiple autonomous driving features including adaptive cruise control, a 360 degree camera, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning.
The 2021 MG Hector might also receive the high beam assist and blind spot detection similar to the Astor. The AI assistant system is a small robot-like device integrated on the dashboard that supports voice commands and performs tasks. It gets activated by saying, “Hey Astor”. Designed by America’s Star Design, the personal AI system depicts human-like emotions and voices. It’s powered by i-Smart Hub.
No other changes are likely to be made to the vehicle. The 2021 MG Hector comes with the 143bhp, 1.5L turbo petrol, petrol-hybrid and 170bhp, 2.0L diesel engine options. All three motors can be had with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is reserved for non-hybrid turbo petrol unit.
Recently, the Hector received a mid-life update with slightly revised cosmetic changes. It gets new front grille with a revised finish, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, differently designed front and rear scuff plates and black appliqué running between the taillamps. The 2021 MG Hector comes with the dual-tone Black and lighter Champagne shade interior theme instead of the all-black cabin. On the feature front, the SUV gets wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats and an auto dimming inside rear view mirror.
The voice assistant system of the updated Hector can recognize up to 31 commands in Hingish. Features such as automatic climate control, a 360 degree camera, connected car technology, a 10.4-inch portrait oriented touchscreen, powered front seats, powered tailgate and a panoramic sunroof are reserved for the top-end trim.
