New 6-Seater MG Hector (Baojun 530) Unveiled
Chinese automaker, Baojun has introduced the updated version of the 530 SUV. As a reminder, the MG Hector SUV is also the re-engineered Baojun 530. Both the MG and the Baojun brands are owned by the SAIC Motor Company. The updated model receives subtle design changes and upgraded interior.
The Baojun 530 facelift for the Chinese market is 40mm longer than the pre-facelift model. It comes with restyled front and rear bumpers, newly styled alloy wheels and revised interior. Earlier, the SUV was available in 2 seating layouts – 5-seat and 7-seat. The updated model is now available in 6-seat layout as well. It comes with four individual captain seats for the first two rows and a bench-type seat for the third row.
In the Chinese market, the Baojun 530 is available with the same 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that also powers the MG Hector. This engine is capable of producing 140bhp of power and 250Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The MG Hector SUV is available only in a 5-seat configuration in our market. The company has already confirmed the 7-seat version of the SUV is in the making for the Indian market. Similar to the Chinese model, the Hector is likely to receive a six-seat configuration with captain seats for 1st and 2nd rows. The three-row MG Hector is likely to be launched in early 2020, most probably around Delhi Auto Expo 2020. The SUV will directly rival the Mahindra XUV500 and the upcoming Tata Harrier 7-seater.
The 7-seater MG Hector will be locally developed at the SAIC’s Halol based plant in Gujarat. The front and side profile of the Hector 7-seater will be similar to the regular model, though changes could be made at the rear end in the form of new bumper and muffler. The 7-seater MG Hector will be offered with 2 engine options – a 170bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 140bhp, 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol with 6 MT and 6-speed DCT.
