MG Astor

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isnt it? We all think about a few key things: How much will it cost to buy? Is it safe for my family? What about monthly maintenance? Does it have the latest features? And importantly, how good is the company service? Well, if you are looking for a stylish, feature-packed, and safe SUV, then the new MG Astor is definitely a car you need to consider. Lets dive deep into what makes the MG Astor a strong contender in the competitive Indian SUV market.

Engine Specifications

The MG Astor offers two petrol engine options to suit different driving needs:

• 1.5-litre VTi-TECH Petrol Engine: This naturally aspirated engine delivers 110 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque. Its great for city driving and offers a smooth, refined experience.
• 1.3-litre Turbo Petrol Engine: If you love a bit more power, this turbocharged engine is for you. It produces a strong 140 PS of power and 220 Nm of torque, making highway overtakes effortless and driving more exciting.

Design Overview

• Exterior: The MG Astor stands out with its bold and sophisticated design. It features a striking Celestial Grille, Full LED Hawkeye headlamps, and sleek LED DRLs that give it a premium look. The alloys are stylish, and the overall silhouette is sporty and modern, making it a head-turner on Indian roads.
• Interior: Step inside the Astor and you are greeted by a plush and premium cabin. Soft-touch materials are used generously, giving a sense of luxury. The dashboard layout is clean and driver-focused. The dual-tone interior themes (depending on variant) add to the upscale feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all occupants.

Key Features

The MG Astor is packed with technology and convenience features:

• Large 10.1-inch HD Infotainment Screen
• i-SMART Connectivity with AI Assistant (Hello Astor)
• Panoramic Sunroof
• 360-Degree Surround View Camera
• Wireless Phone Charging
• Automatic Climate Control
• Digital Instrument Cluster
• Heated Outside Rear-view Mirrors (ORVMs)
• Rain-sensing Wipers
• Power Adjustable Drivers Seat

What is the Ground Clearance of MG Astor?

The MG Astor offers a ground clearance of 165 mm, which is adequate for navigating most Indian road conditions and speed breakers comfortably.

What is the Boot Space of MG Astor?

With a generous boot space of 448 litres, the MG Astor can easily accommodate your luggage for weekend getaways or daily shopping needs.

What are the Dimensions of MG Astor?

Here are the key dimensions of the MG Astor:

• Length: 4323 mm
• Width: 1809 mm
• Height: 1650 mm
• Wheelbase: 2585 mm

Powertrain Options

The MG Astor comes with a choice of transmission options:

• 1.5-litre VTi-TECH Petrol: Available with a 5-speed Manual Transmission or an 8-speed simulated CVT automatic.
• 1.3-litre Turbo Petrol: Paired exclusively with a 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic Transmission for a smooth and responsive drive.

Safety Features

MG has prioritized safety in the Astor, equipping it with a host of features:

• Up to 6 Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Hill Hold Control (HHC)
• Hill Descent Control (HDC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2: This suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and more, offering an extra layer of safety.

NCAP Rating Table

The MG ZS, which shares its platform with the Astor, has performed well in safety tests.

NCAP Body	Model Tested	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection	Remarks
Global NCAP (India)	MG ZS (for India)	5 Stars	4 Stars	Impressive safety performance for the Indian-spec model.
Bharat NCAP	MG Astor	Yet to be tested	Yet to be tested	Rating expected soon for the specific Indian model.

Rivals of MG Astor

The MG Astor competes in a very tough segment. Its main rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta
• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

The MG Astor offers a compelling package, but like any car, it has its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros

• Feature-Rich Cabin: Comes loaded with segment-leading features like ADAS Level 2, AI Assistant, and a large infotainment system.
• Premium Interior: High-quality materials and a well-designed cabin give it a luxurious feel, often found in higher segments.
• Smooth Engine Options: Both the 1.5L NA and 1.3L Turbo engines offer refined performance, with the turbo being particularly zesty.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing most bumps and undulations on Indian roads.
• Strong Safety Package: With up to 6 airbags and advanced ADAS features, safety is a major highlight.
• Bold Styling: The exterior design is eye-catching and distinctive.

Cons

• Fuel Efficiency: The turbo petrol engine, while powerful, might not be the most fuel-efficient in its class.
• No Diesel Option: Unlike some rivals, the Astor does not offer a diesel engine, which might be a deal-breaker for some long-distance drivers.
• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, the rear seat can feel a bit snug for three adults on longer journeys compared to some rivals.
• Resale Value (New Brand): As a relatively newer brand in India, long-term resale value might be a slight concern for some buyers compared to established players.
• Maintenance Network: While MG is expanding rapidly, its service network might not be as widespread as Maruti Suzuki or Hyundai in very remote areas.

Conclusion

The MG Astor truly stands out as a strong contender in the highly competitive compact SUV segment in India. It offers a blend of futuristic technology, premium comfort, and robust safety features that make it a compelling choice for modern Indian families. While it does have a few minor drawbacks like the lack of a diesel engine or potentially lower fuel efficiency on the turbo, its overall package of luxury, features, and safety more than makes up for it. If you are looking for an SUV that feels a segment above, packed with innovations and prioritizes your safety, the MG Astor is definitely worth a test drive. Its a car that promises a delightful ownership experience.