The MG Astor, launched by JSW MG Motor India, has quickly carved a niche for itself in the highly competitive compact SUV segment in India. Introduced in October 2021, this mid-size SUV blends modern design, advanced technology, and practical features, making it a compelling choice for urban drivers and families alike. Built on the ZS platform, the Astor reflects MG’s commitment to delivering vehicles that combine style, safety, and innovation at an accessible price point. With its bold celestial grille, premium interiors, and a suite of smart features like the AI assistant, the MG Astor stands out as a forward-thinking vehicle designed to cater to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.
The Astor is positioned as a premium yet affordable option in a segment dominated by heavyweights like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara. It brings a unique mix of aesthetics and functionality, boasting features such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), a panoramic sunroof, and a spacious cabin. As of March 22, 2025, the Astor has undergone updates, including the MY2025 refresh, which discontinued the turbo-petrol engine option, focusing solely on the naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine. This shift reflects MG’s strategy to streamline its offerings while maintaining affordability and fuel efficiency. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the MG Astor, alongside its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The MG Astor is powered by a single engine option in its MY2025 update—a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. Previously, it offered a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol variant, but that has been phased out to simplify the lineup and cater to buyers prioritizing efficiency over outright performance. Below is a detailed tabular breakdown of the technical specifications, sourced from reliable platforms like CarDekho, CarWale, and ZigWheels, ensuring accuracy as of March 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L VTi-Tech Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Displacement | 1498 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 4 |
| Max Power | 108.49 bhp @ 6000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 144 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Transmission Options | 5-Speed Manual / CVT (Automatic) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage (ARAI Claimed) | 15.43 kmpl (Manual), 14.85 kmpl (CVT) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 litres |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension (Rear) | Torsion Beam |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Disc |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm (unladen) |
| Boot Space | 488 litres |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4323 mm x 1809 mm x 1650 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1240-1300 kg (variant dependent) |
The 1.5-litre engine delivers smooth power delivery, suitable for city commuting and moderate highway cruising. While it lacks the punch of the discontinued turbo variant (138 bhp, 220 Nm), it compensates with decent fuel efficiency and a refined driving experience, aided by the choice of a 5-speed manual or a seamless CVT gearbox.
Variants
The MG Astor is available in a range of variants, each catering to different buyer preferences, from budget-conscious individuals to those seeking a feature-rich experience. The MY2025 update has streamlined the lineup, focusing on the naturally aspirated petrol engine with manual and CVT options. Below is a table summarizing the key variants as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and MG Motor India’s official website.
| Variant | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sprint | 5-Speed Manual | LED Headlamps, 10.1-inch Touchscreen, Dual Airbags, ABS, Manual AC |
| Shine | 5-Speed Manual | Adds Sunroof, Rear Parking Camera, Alloy Wheels, Cruise Control |
| Select | CVT | Panoramic Sunroof, Push-Button Start, Auto Climate Control, 6 Airbags |
| Sharp Pro | 5-Speed Manual | ADAS (Level 2), 360-Degree Camera, Leather Upholstery, Wireless Charging |
| Savvy Pro | CVT | Top-spec: Ventilated Seats, Digital Key, AI Assistant, Premium Sound System |
| Smart Blackstorm | 5-Speed Manual | Special Edition: Black Exterior, Red Accents, Unique Badging, Enhanced Styling |
The Sprint serves as the entry-level trim, offering essential features at an attractive price, while the Savvy Pro sits at the top, loaded with cutting-edge tech like ADAS and a digital key with Bluetooth functionality. The Smart Blackstorm, a limited-edition variant, adds a distinctive aesthetic appeal with its blacked-out design and red interior highlights.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the MG Astor varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices (as of March 2025) for key variants in major Indian metro cities, compiled from CarWale and CarDekho. Note that these are approximate figures and may vary slightly based on dealer discounts and additional costs.
| Variant | Delhi | Mumbai | Bangalore | Kolkata | Chennai |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sprint (Manual) | ₹11.31 Lakh | ₹11.67 Lakh | ₹12.21 Lakh | ₹11.52 Lakh | ₹11.85 Lakh |
| Shine (Manual) | ₹14.02 Lakh | ₹14.45 Lakh | ₹15.10 Lakh | ₹14.25 Lakh | ₹14.65 Lakh |
| Select (CVT) | ₹15.54 Lakh | ₹16.02 Lakh | ₹16.75 Lakh | ₹15.80 Lakh | ₹16.25 Lakh |
| Sharp Pro (Manual) | ₹17.57 Lakh | ₹18.10 Lakh | ₹18.92 Lakh | ₹17.85 Lakh | ₹18.35 Lakh |
| Savvy Pro (CVT) | ₹20.22 Lakh | ₹20.85 Lakh | ₹21.81 Lakh | ₹20.55 Lakh | ₹21.15 Lakh |
| Smart Blackstorm | ₹16.73 Lakh | ₹17.25 Lakh | ₹18.03 Lakh | ₹17.00 Lakh | ₹17.50 Lakh |
The pricing reflects the Astor’s positioning as a value-for-money SUV, with the base variant starting under ₹12 lakh in most cities and the top-spec Savvy Pro crossing ₹20 lakh, aligning it closely with premium competitors. Bangalore tends to have slightly higher prices due to elevated taxes, while Delhi offers the most competitive rates.
About the MG Astor
Design and Aesthetics
The MG Astor is a visual treat, blending contemporary design with a touch of sophistication. At the front, the Bold Celestial Grille—inspired by cosmic patterns—dominates the fascia, flanked by sleek full-LED hawkeye headlamps that enhance its aggressive stance. The side profile features a leopard jump shoulder line, adding a sporty flair, while the rear sports LED taillights and Astor lettering on the tailgate for a premium finish. Available in six colors—Aurora Silver, Glaze Red, Candy White, Starry Black, Havana Grey, and a White-Black dual-tone—the Astor caters to diverse tastes. The Smart Blackstorm edition, with its all-black exterior and red accents, appeals to buyers seeking a bold, distinctive look.
Inside, the Astor offers a dual-tone Sangria Red interior theme that exudes luxury, complemented by high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces. The cabin is spacious, with a wheelbase of 2580 mm ensuring ample legroom for five occupants. The 488-litre boot space is practical for family trips or weekend getaways, expandable by folding the rear seats. Features like the panoramic sunroof (available from the Select variant upwards) elevate the sense of openness, making it a standout in its class.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 108.49 bhp and 144 Nm of torque, striking a balance between efficiency and usability. While it may not match the outright performance of turbocharged rivals like the Kia Seltos or Skoda Kushaq, it offers a smooth and linear power delivery, ideal for city traffic and moderate highway drives. The 5-speed manual gearbox is precise, while the CVT automatic provides a relaxed, hassle-free experience, minimizing turbo lag concerns that plagued the discontinued 1.3-litre turbo variant.
The Astor’s ride quality is commendable, thanks to its MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear setup. It handles urban potholes and uneven roads with ease, though the softer suspension tuning may feel less composed at higher speeds compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Taigun. Three steering modes—Urban, Normal, and Dynamic—allow drivers to tailor the handling to their preferences, with the Dynamic mode offering sharper responses for spirited driving. Fuel efficiency stands at 15.43 kmpl (manual) and 14.85 kmpl (CVT) per ARAI claims, though real-world figures often hover around 12-13 kmpl in cities and 16-17 kmpl on highways, as reported by owners on CarWale.
Features and Technology
The MG Astor shines in the tech department, offering a suite of features that rival even higher-priced SUVs. The centerpiece is the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with a premium sound system in top variants. The AI assistant, akin to Amazon’s Alexa, responds to voice commands and adds a playful element with visual gestures, enhancing the cabin experience. The Savvy Pro variant introduces Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking—features typically found in more expensive vehicles.
Safety is a strong suit, with up to 49 standard safety features across variants, including six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold control, and a 360-degree camera (higher trims). The digital key with Bluetooth technology allows keyless access, while the asterisk button on the steering wheel connects to a call center for emergencies—a thoughtful touch for added peace of mind. However, the Astor has not yet been tested by Global NCAP, leaving its crash safety rating unverified as of March 2025.
Market Positioning and Updates
Since its launch, the MG Astor has positioned itself as a tech-laden, stylish alternative to mainstream compact SUVs. The MY2025 update, launched in February 2025, saw the discontinuation of the 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine (138 bhp, 220 Nm), a move that surprised some enthusiasts but aligns with MG’s focus on affordability and mass appeal. Priced from ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom), the Astor undercuts rivals like the Hyundai Creta (starting at ₹11.11 lakh) while offering comparable features. Periodic price hikes—up to ₹38,000 in early 2025—reflect rising input costs, yet the Astor remains competitively priced.
Sales figures indicate steady demand, with over 250 units sold in February 2025, a 38% month-on-month growth, per CarDekho. However, it trails segment leaders like the Creta and Seltos in monthly volumes, suggesting MG needs to bolster its brand presence and service network, especially in tier-3 cities where owners report inconsistent after-sales support.
Close Competitors
The MG Astor operates in a fiercely contested segment, facing off against established players with strong brand loyalty and diverse powertrain options. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals, focusing on design, performance, features, and pricing.
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta is the segment benchmark, known for its refined design, robust build, and extensive variant lineup. Priced from ₹11.11 lakh to ₹20.30 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers petrol (1.5L NA, 113 bhp; 1.5L turbo, 158 bhp) and diesel (1.5L, 114 bhp) engines, paired with manual, automatic, and DCT options. The Creta’s strengths include a plush interior, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, and a proven safety record (3-star Global NCAP). However, its base variants lack the tech depth of the Astor, and higher trims are pricier. The Astor counters with ADAS and a lower entry price, though it misses out on diesel or hybrid options, a gap the Creta fills adeptly.
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos, priced between ₹10.90 lakh and ₹20.37 lakh (ex-showroom), is a direct rival with a sporty design and versatile powertrains: 1.5L NA petrol (113 bhp), 1.5L turbo petrol (158 bhp), and 1.5L diesel (114 bhp). Its sharp styling, premium cabin, and features like a head-up display and ventilated seats appeal to younger buyers. The Seltos offers superior performance in its turbo guise and a 4-star Global NCAP rating, outpacing the Astor’s untested safety credentials. However, the Astor’s panoramic sunroof and AI assistant give it an edge in tech appeal, though its single-engine strategy limits its versatility compared to the Seltos.
Maruti Grand Vitara
The Maruti Grand Vitara, starting at ₹10.87 lakh (ex-showroom), brings hybrid technology to the table with its 1.5L mild-hybrid (91 bhp) and strong-hybrid (114 bhp combined) options, alongside a CNG variant. It excels in fuel efficiency (up to 27.97 kmpl for the strong hybrid) and boasts Maruti’s vast service network. Features like a 9-inch touchscreen and ventilated seats are competitive, but it lacks ADAS, a key differentiator for the Astor. The Grand Vitara’s softer design and lower power output may deter performance seekers, where the Astor’s urban-friendly ride and modern tech hold an advantage.
Skoda Kushaq
The Skoda Kushaq, priced from ₹11.99 lakh to ₹20.49 lakh (ex-showroom), emphasizes European engineering with its 1.0L TSI (113 bhp) and 1.5L TSI (148 bhp) petrol engines. Its taut handling, premium build, and 5-star Global NCAP rating make it a formidable rival. The Kushaq’s minimalist yet functional cabin contrasts with the Astor’s tech-heavy approach, and its higher base price positions it as a slightly premium offering. The Astor’s lower entry cost and feature-rich variants appeal to budget-conscious buyers, though the Kushaq’s superior dynamics cater to driving enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Taigun
The Volkswagen Taigun, a sibling to the Kushaq, shares its engines (1.0L TSI, 113 bhp; 1.5L TSI, 148 bhp) and 5-star NCAP rating, priced from ₹11.70 lakh to ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom). It offers a solid build, crisp handling, and a clean design, appealing to those prioritizing quality over flashiness. The Taigun’s feature set, including a 10-inch touchscreen and ventilated seats, is competitive, but it lacks the Astor’s ADAS and AI gimmicks. The Astor’s softer ride suits city use, while the Taigun’s firmer setup excels on highways, making them distinct in their appeal.
Final Thoughts!
The MG Astor is a compelling contender in the compact SUV segment, blending style, technology, and affordability into a package that challenges established players. Its 1.5-litre petrol engine may lack the punch of turbocharged rivals, but its smooth delivery, paired with a feature-packed cabin, makes it a practical choice for urban families and tech-savvy buyers. Variants like the Savvy Pro and Smart Blackstorm elevate its appeal with premium touches, while the sub-₹12 lakh starting price undercuts many competitors. However, the absence of diesel or hybrid options and an untested safety rating leave room for improvement.
Against rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun, the Astor holds its own with unique features like ADAS and a panoramic sunroof, though it trails in powertrain diversity and brand equity. For buyers seeking a modern, value-driven SUV with a focus on comfort and innovation, the MG Astor is a worthy option, backed by MG’s growing presence in India as of March 22, 2025.
