Maruti Suzuki has long been associated with fuel-efficient cars in India, particularly through its strong-hybrid and CNG offerings. However, a new plug-in hybrid SUV highlighted by MotorOctane is challenging that reputation with a claimed driving range of 1,110 kilometres on a full tank and battery charge. The vehicle in question is the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV, which combines a petrol engine with an electric powertrain.
MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV: What Makes It Different?
According to MotorOctane, the MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 101 bhp and 125 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 20.5 kWh battery, with the combined powertrain reportedly delivering 198 bhp and 237 Nm of torque.
The SUV is said to feature a dedicated hybrid transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. Its powertrain can operate in four modes: electric-only, series hybrid, parallel hybrid and engine-direct mode.
This setup allows the vehicle to rely on battery power for shorter journeys while using the petrol engine and electric motor together when additional range or performance is required.
Up to 115 km of Electric-Only Driving
One of the most notable claims is an electric-only driving range of up to 115 kilometres. For people whose daily commutes are relatively short, this could potentially reduce petrol consumption considerably if the battery is charged regularly.
MotorOctane also reports a claimed fuel efficiency of 25 km/l and a total driving range of approximately 1,100 kilometres. The publication mentions that a higher figure of 50 km/l was claimed during the vehicle’s launch, but says this number has not been confirmed through MG’s official channels.
These figures should therefore be treated cautiously. Real-world efficiency will depend on driving conditions, battery charge levels, traffic, speed and how frequently the vehicle is plugged in.
Features and Expected Positioning
The reported equipment list includes a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems, six airbags and a 360-degree camera.
The SUV is also reported to offer seven-seat accommodation, putting it in competition with larger family vehicles such as the Mahindra XUV 7XO and Tata Safari.
MotorOctane lists prices between ₹30.70 lakh and ₹33.28 lakh on-road in Mumbai, while a battery-as-a-service arrangement reportedly lowers the initial ex-showroom price.
Can It Beat Maruti on Mileage?
The answer depends on what is being measured. A plug-in hybrid can achieve impressive overall efficiency when it is charged frequently and many journeys are completed using electricity. Its petrol efficiency may be substantially different once the battery is depleted.
Maruti’s strong-hybrid SUVs, including the Victoris and Grand Vitara, have established ARAI-certified fuel-efficiency figures. Any direct comparison with the MG model requires verified specifications and consistent testing conditions.
At present, the reported claims surrounding the Hector Tomahawk PHEV require independent confirmation before it can confidently be described as India’s most fuel-efficient SUV.
Summary
The MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV is reported to combine a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 20.5 kWh battery, delivering a claimed 1,110 km total range and up to 115 km of electric-only driving. MotorOctane also cites 25 km/l efficiency and a feature-rich seven-seat cabin. However, the headline mileage claims and specifications require official confirmation before comparisons with Maruti’s established hybrid SUVs can be considered conclusive.
