JSW MG Motor has launched yet another facelift for the Hector, bringing with it minor cosmetic changes and a few interior upgrades. Despite the additions, MG has cut the executive SUV’s prices sharply, especially for the Style base variant, which is now more affordable by over Rs 2 lakh. Consequently, the Hector’s starting price is now close to that of midsize SUVs like the Tata Sierra. But which offers more powertrain options, features and safety tech in its base variant: the Hector or Sierra? Keep reading to find out.

MG Hector facelift vs Tata Sierra: Price

Sierra base model more affordable by Rs 50,000

Evidently, the Hector is the pricier model in this comparison – by Rs 50,000. Also worth keeping in mind is that the prices mentioned for both SUVs are introductory and could be revised in the future.

MG Hector facelift vs Tata Sierra: Powertrain choices

Base-spec Hector misses out on a diesel engine

The new Sierra uses a relatively less powerful petrol engine, which is not turbocharged. Where it scores, though, is by offering a diesel option. Both models stick to a front-wheel-drive layout and come with a single 6-speed manual gearbox.

MG Hector facelift vs Tata Sierra: Exterior features

LED projector headlights and flush-type door handles only on Sierra

When it comes to exterior features, the Sierra’s base variant is more modern in a few key areas. It gets LED projector headlamps and flush-fitting door handles, while the MG Hector Style makes do with basic halogen lights and standard pull-type handles. Both SUVs come with LED daytime running lamps (DRLs), but neither offers front fog lamps on these variants. 

They ride on 17-inch steel wheels, though the Hector adds wheel covers for a slightly dressed-up look. At the back, the Sierra again feels more premium with LED tail-lights, which are connected by a light bar, while the Hector uses a mix of bulbs and LEDs.

MG Hector facelift vs Tata Sierra: Interior features

MG SUV stands out with recline functionality for rear seats

Inside, both the Hector Style and Sierra Smart+ keep things fairly basic on the feature front. Neither gets a touchscreen or even speakers, which underlines their entry-level positioning. The Sierra does pull ahead slightly with a larger 4-inch multi-information display, compared to the Hector’s 3.5-inch unit. It also gets push-button start, a feature missing on the Hector Style. Both SUVs offer powered adjustment for the ORVMs, a front armrest and rear AC vents. However, the Hector scores back with rear seat recline, which the Sierra does without.

MG Hector facelift vs Tata Sierra: Safety tech

Both SUVs are almost evenly matched here

On the safety front, the new Hector Style and Sierra Smart+ variants are closely matched. They come with 6 airbags as standard, along with ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Braking hardware is also identical, with all-wheel disc brakes offered on both SUVs. The main difference lies in the parking brake. The Hector uses a conventional manual handbrake, while the Sierra gets an electronic parking brake, which feels more modern and convenient.

Verdict

Being an executive SUV, the MG Hector has a noticeably larger footprint than the Tata Sierra, except for height, and this translates into a more spacious cabin. If interior space matters more than outright efficiency, the MG Hector Style makes a strong case despite its slightly higher price. While we are yet to review the updated Hector, the outgoing model, for reference, offered a good ride, something chauffeur-driven buyers will appreciate. Feature-wise, both SUVs have their own strengths inside and out, while safety equipment is largely identical across the two.

Where the Sierra clearly scores is powertrain choice, at least for now. MG is yet to announce prices for the diesel Hector lineup, and it remains to be seen if a diesel powertrain is offered right from the Hector's base model. If fuel efficiency is high on your list, the Tata Sierra Smart+ diesel and even its naturally aspirated petrol engine, which runs the fuel-efficiency-focused Atkinson cycle, should have the edge. That said, neither company has revealed official mileage figures yet.