If you are looking for premium SUVs in India, the MG Hector and Mahindra XUV700 often stand out in this competitive market with their performance, space, and technology. However, before selecting either one of them, you need to know about their features, dimensions, engine, transmission, and safety ratings. This article provides a detailed comparison guide of the MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700 to help you make a better decision.
MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700: Dimensions
It is essential to take a look at the dimensions of the cars before you finalise any of them. This helps get you an idea regarding the stability, space, and comfort of the vehicle.
The table below shows the dimensions of both the MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700:
| Dimensions | MG Hector | Mahindra XUV700 |
| Length (mm) | 4655 mm | 4695 mm |
| Width (mm) | 1835 mm | 1890 mm |
| Height (mm) | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
| Boot Space (L) | 587 Litres | 240 Litres |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | — | 200 mm |
MG Hector comes with a boot space of 587 litres, providing enough room for your weekend grocery shopping or airport runs. Though the Mahindra XUV700 has a boot space of only 240 litres, its 200 mm ground clearance offers hassle-free off-road driving, even on flooded roads.
Hector is more of a family car that offers you space, easy parking even in congested areas, etc. On the other hand, the XUV700 is known for its versatility and all-road capabilities. Overall, XUV700 is for rugged use, while Hector is for city dwelling.
MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700: Engine & Transmission
Examining a vehicle’s engine specifications is necessary to understand its performance in real-world conditions. The table below explains the engine and transmission specifications of the MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700 to help you make informed decisions:
| Engine & Transmission | MG Hector (Petrol/Diesel) | Mahindra XUV700 (Petrol/Diesel) |
| Engine Options | 1.5 Turbocharged Intercooled, 1451 cc, 4 Cylinders Inline, 4 Valves/Cylinder, DOHC | 2.0 Turbo with Direct Injection (TGDi), 1997 cc, 4 Cylinders Inline, 4 Valves/Cylinder, DOHC, Direct fuel distribution |
| Transmission Options | Manual – 6 Gears | Manual – 6 Gears |
| Power (PS) | 141 bhp @ 5200 rpm | 197 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque (Nm) | 250 Nm @ 3000 rpm | 380 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm |
| Mileage (kmpl ARAI) | 12.34 kmpl | 13 kmpl |
Both the Mahindra XUV700 and MG Hector feature robust diesel engines. XUV700’s mHAWK 2.0L produces 197 bhp @ 5000 rpm and 380 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm, significantly outpowering Hector’s 1.5L turbo diesel at 141 bhp @ 5200 rpm and 250 Nm @ 3000 rpm. Both employ turbochargers and BS VI 2.0 compliance for efficiency.
XUV700 uses a 6-speed manual transmission and an automatic with FWD for smooth highway cruising and improved traction. On the other hand, Hector relies on a 6-speed manual with FWD, better for manual control in city traffic but less convenient in jams. ARAI mileage lists the XUV700 at 13 kmpl and the Hector at 12.34 kmpl.
Overall, XUV700 offers superior power, torque, auto transmission, and AWD, while Hector provides accessible manual diesel basics.
MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700: Features & Comfort
Both the MG Hector and Mahindra XUV700 come with various comfort and premium features that align with India’s climate and road conditions. Take a look at the table below to compare the features of both models:
| Feature | MG Hector | Mahindra XUV700 |
| Infotainment System | 14-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen |
| Music System | 4 speakers | 4 speakers |
| Climate Control | Yes | 2-zone |
| Ventilated Seats | Front | — |
| Adjustable Steering | Tilt | Tilt |
| Drive Modes | — | — |
| Instrument Cluster | 3.5″ Instrument Cluster | 7″ Analogue Instrument Cluster with Adjustable Cluster Brightness |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | — |
| Adjustable Seats | 8-way manually adjustable (seat: forward / back, backrest tilt: forward / back, headrest: up / down, seat height: up / down)6-way manually adjustable (seat: forward / back, backrest tilt: forward / back, headrest: up / down)4-way manually adjustable (backrest tilt: forward / back, headrest: up / down) | 8-way manually adjustable (seat: forward / back, backrest tilt: forward / back, headrest: up / down, seat height: up / down)6-way manually adjustable (seat: forward / back, backrest tilt: forward / back, headrest: up / down)2-way manually adjustable (headrest: up / down) |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| 60:40 Rear Split | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise Control | — | — |
Hector’s 14-inch screen enables seamless streaming for kids on drives, and the panoramic sunroof provides ample light in the cabin. XUV700 counters with its Sony speakers, offering crystal-clear sound.
Ventilated seats help combat heat, rear vents keep elders cool, and electric adjustments offer personalised fits. XUV700’s twin-cluster setup provides a premium feel. XUV700’s audio and modes deserve a 5-star, while Hector’s interface simplifies Android Auto.
Mahindra XUV700 offers premium features, while Hector’s massive screen suits media fans.
MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700: Safety Features
Considering the chaotic traffic on Indian roads, safety ratings are most crucial while buying a car. The table below represents the safety features of both the MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700:
| Feature | MG Hector | Mahindra XUV700 |
| GNCAP Rating | Not tested | 5-star |
| Airbags | 6 | 7 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | — |
| Auto Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rain-sensing Wipers | — | — |
| Hill Hold Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | — | Yes |
| Rear Sensors/Camera | With guidelines | With guidelines |
| ISOFIX | Yes | Yes |
| ADAS | — | Yes |
The 5-star Global NCAP rating for the Mahindra XUV700 refers to robust adult and child protection in frontal and side impacts, far beyond Hector’s outdated tests. Its ADAS suite averts collisions in fog or rain, a feature missing from Hector.
Seven airbags and hill descent control enhance off-road safety for both drivers and passengers. On the other hand, MG Hector’s 360-degree camera simplifies reversing in crowds, and ABS adds value at the top.
For families with kids, XUV700’s ISOFIX and ESC prevent skids on wet bends. XUV700’s proven NCAP and ADAS make it safer, while Hector is competitive but lacks the safety ratings.
MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700: Price Comparison
Last but not least, before purchasing a car, you must know its price range. So, the table below represents the price range of all the variants of the MG Hector and the Mahindra XUV700 to help finalise your decision:
| Variants | MG Hector (Ex-showroom Price) | Mahindra XUV700 (Ex-showroom Price) |
| Base Variants | ₹11.99 Lakh | ₹13.66 – 14.60 Lakh |
| Mid Variants | ₹13.99 – 14.99 Lakh | ₹15.92 – 17.95 Lakh |
| Upper Mid Variants | ₹16.29 – 16.79 Lakh | ₹18.14 – 20.12 Lakh |
| Top Variants | ₹18.09 – 18.99 Lakh | ₹20.45 – 23.71 Lakh |
MG Hector consistently offers better value for consumers on a tight budget by undercutting the Mahindra XUV700 across all variants. Base models start at ₹11.99 Lakh for Hector and ₹13.66–14.60 Lakh for XUV700, saving about ₹1.7–2.6 Lakh at the entry level.
Mid variants narrow to ₹13.99-14.99 Lakh (Hector) versus ₹15.92-17.95 Lakh (XUV700), with Hector’s tech-loaded trims winning by ₹2 Lakh. The top ends at ₹18.09-18.99 Lakh for Hector compared to ₹20.45-23.71 Lakh for the AWD/diesel luxury XUV700, which is ₹2.5 Lakh less overall. The upper mid sees ₹16.29-16.79 Lakh vs. ₹18.14-20.12 Lakh.
Hector offers comfort and premium features, while the XUV700 relies on power and safety to justify its higher prices. Considering everything, Hector wins on affordability; the XUV700 wins on premium specs.
Summary
Mahindra XUV700 emerges superior overall, thanks to 5-star safety, potent engines, and 7-seater flexibility vital for Indian families. However, Hector also shines in city boot space and screens, but falters in NCAP and torque. Therefore, you can prioritise XUV700 for highways and protection, and Hector for urban affordability.
FAQ about MG Hector vs Mahindra XUV700
Q. What are the starting ex-showroom prices for the Mahindra XUV700 and the MG Hector?
Mahindra XUV700 base variant starts at ₹13.66 Lakh (ex-showroom price in Delhi), which is slightly higher than MG Hector’s entry price of ₹11.99 Lakh. Both offer competitive access to premium SUV features.
Q. Is the Mahindra XUV700’s higher price justified over the MG Hector?
Yes, the XUV700’s premium stems from its 5-star Global NCAP rating, advanced ADAS, and 7-seater flexibility. It offers superior long-term safety and versatility compared to Hector’s feature-focused but untested build.
Q. Which car is more suitable for tight city parking and urban manoeuvres?
MG Hector excels with its lighter 1613 kg kerb weight, larger 587 L boot for groceries, and nimble handling in congested areas. However, the XUV700’s 360-degree camera helps offset its bulk.
Q. Does the MG Hector include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)?
Yes, top Hector variants feature Level 2 ADAS, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, enhancing highway safety, but they lack the comprehensive suite found in XUV700’s higher trims.
Q. What is the seating capacity difference between the two SUVs?
Mahindra XUV700 accommodates up to 7 passengers and offers flexible configurations, making it ideal for large families. On the other hand, the MG Hector sticks to 5 seats with more rear space per occupant but no third row.
