MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV which was launched recently, takes on the well-established Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O). While both are three-row electrified models, their approach to hybrid technology is fundamentally different. Tomahawk is a plug-in hybrid with a sizeable battery, while Hycross uses Toyota’s self-charging strong-hybrid system.
MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV Vs Innova Hycross Hybrid
For this comparison, we have considered the top-spec seven-seat variants. Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence is priced at Rs 27.79 lakh, while Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) costs around Rs 31.84 lakh, ex-showroom. This gives MG a substantial price advantage of around Rs 4.05 lakh.
Dimensionally, Hycross has a slight advantage. At 4,755 mm, it is 10 mm longer than Tomahawk, while its 1,790 mm height is 20 mm greater. Toyota also has a 40 mm longer wheelbase at 2,850 mm. Boot capacity stands at 239 litres for Hycross compared to 192 litres for Tomahawk. Both ride on 18-inch wheels.
Features – Tomahawk Takes The Tech Lead
Tomahawk’s newer cabin brings several technology advantages. It gets a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen and 8.8-inch digital driver’s display, compared to Hycross’ 10.1-inch touchscreen and 7-inch MID. Both offer ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, connected-car technology and rear sunblinds.
MG also offers a 10-speaker Infinity audio system, 50W wireless charger, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, OTA updates, multi-app support, 256-colour ambient lighting and dual-zone climate control. Hycross counters with an 8-way powered driver’s seat and, importantly, powered Ottoman second-row seats, giving it an advantage for chauffeur-driven buyers.
Safety – Both Well Equipped
Both models get six airbags, ADAS, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist, TPMS, 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, electronic parking brake with Auto Hold and all-wheel disc brakes. Tomahawk additionally gets traction control and rain-sensing wipers. Hycross ZX (O), however, has the advantage of an established 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant protection. Tomahawk is yet to receive a Bharat NCAP rating.
PHEV Vs Strong Hybrid
The biggest difference lies underneath. Tomahawk combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor and 20.5 kWh battery, producing a combined 198 hp. Innova Hycross uses a 2.0-litre petrol-electric strong-hybrid system producing around 184 hp.
MG’s much larger battery can be externally charged, including through DC fast charging. This allows Tomahawk to rely much more heavily on electric propulsion than a conventional strong hybrid. It also supports V2L and V2V functionality. Tomahawk has a claimed 50 km/l efficiency figure and over 1,100 km combined range, while Hycross is rated at 22.16 km/l and offers a claimed range of around 800 km.
However, the efficiency figures should not be treated as a direct comparison. Tomahawk’s PHEV system derives a significant part of its efficiency advantage from energy stored through external charging, whereas Hycross replenishes its much smaller battery through the engine and regenerative braking without requiring plug-in charging. Once Tomahawk’s battery charge is depleted, its real-world petrol consumption will naturally differ from the headline 50 km/l figure.
Which One Offers More?
At around Rs 4.05 lakh less, Hector Tomahawk PHEV Essence makes a strong value proposition with its larger battery, plug-in capability, more powerful electrified powertrain and longer list of technology features. Innova Hycross Hybrid ZX (O) counters with more cabin space, larger boot, powered Ottoman seats, proven strong-hybrid technology and a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.
Therefore, rather than Tomahawk being an outright winner, the choice largely depends on whether buyers prioritise PHEV technology and features or Hycross’ space, second-row comfort and established hybrid credentials. Also, deliveries of MG Hector Tomahawk PHEV are scheduled to commence from November 2026.