MG Hector was the company's debut product in India back in 2019 and the vehicle managed to find many takers despite the several challenges staring the auto industry in the country at the time. Those challenges have only compounded in recent times with the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic and while social distancing is the need of the hour, MG is still backing family trips that don't leave anyone behind. The way out? Add a third row to the Hector and call it Hector Plus.

First things first - only the most discerning of eyes will be able to differentiate between the Hector and Hector Plus at just one glance. The new offering from MG looks very similar to its sibling, especially from the outside. But before we stand at a distance and play 'Spot the Difference', it is imperative to step in and admire the view.

Yes, there are three rows inside the Hector Plus and MG has done well to allow for it despite the proportions of the car being similar to Hector. The seats in all three rows are done up in tan leatherette upholstery with contrasting stitching and have decent levels of cushioning. Not only is it very pleasing to the senses but is actually quite comfortable to sit in, in at least the front and middle row. The middle row is like the throne actually with two captain seats - each with its own armrest. These seats recline and can be pushed forward or backward. And while these don't move in and out like in the Carnival, there's a decent level of leg space, knee room, and under-thigh support. Unless you opt for the hybrid variant which packs in a battery pack under the driver's seat, the feet would be nestled quite nicely even if the seat behind the driver is pulled up.

The most important element of space and comfort in the third row is, however, more about misses than hits. MG says this row is meant more for children and young adults but even they may not prefer being commanded to the back. Getting to this row itself is a task and once there, the legs are quite cramped - assuming the middle row seats are comfortably positioned for passengers there.

That said, the vents on either side with a dedicated fan speed control blast air with power to keep the row cool.

It is important to look at the third row, therefore, as a viable option that offers versatility and not as a space that may be used by passengers regularly and especially not on long journeys. It is better to have it and not use it if possible than to not have it at all.

MG does more than make up for third-row space issues with a cabin that benefits from a ginormous feel thanks to large windows and a massive panoramic sunroof. Natural light and airflow in in abundance and the car could give feels like a magic carpet, especially during long rides through winding forest and hill roads. Luggage space with all three rows up is limited at 155 liters but split and folded last-row seats open up 530 liters of space.

And while the Hector Plus may mostly be a chauffeur-driven vehicle, it does offer much to the front passengers as well. The biggest plus in the Hector Plus is the commanding view of the road with the electrically adjustable seats quite easy to place into position. The generous use of hard plastics are a bit of a let down though.