MG Astor mid-size SUV launched in India; Know all about features, prices and more

The 2021 MG Astor is the Chinese automaker's sixth model to hit the Indian market, and it is simply a petrol-powered version of the MG ZS EV.

MG Motor India has unveiled the new Astor small SUV in India, with prices beginning at Rs 9.78 lakh for the VTi-Tech manual trim and up to 16.78 million for the top-of-the-line Sharp trim. Prices are all ex-showroom. The Level 2 ADAS safety features will be optional on the VTi-Tech Sharp CVT and 220 Sharp AT versions. The 2021 MG Astor is the Chinese automaker's sixth model to hit the Indian market, and it is simply a petrol-powered version of the MG ZS EV.

It is also the brand's most cost-effective product to date. The new MG Astor is also the company's first vehicle to have an AI-based personal assistant as well as Level 2 autonomous technology with ADAS functions. The new MG Astor utilises a novel Car-as-a-Platform (CAAP) concept, in which MG intends to provide a variety of technology-driven services to its customers by using the Astor as a platform.

The SUV now has a dramatic celestial pattern grille, full LED Hawkeye projector headlights, boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights, and a redesigned bumper. It also receives new 17-inch machined alloy wheels inspired by turbines, heated ORVMs, and roof rails. The SUV has new LED taillamps and a redesigned back bumper with a chrome-accentuated twin exhaust design. Spiced Orange, Aurora Silver, Glaze Red, Candy White, and Starry Black will be the exterior colours available.

The Astor's cabin is similar to its electric sibling, the ZS EV, and comes with three interior theme options. A 10.1-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch instrument cluster, a multi-functional steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, auto temperature control, 360-degree camera view, air-purifier, electronic parking brake, and a panoramic sunroof are all included.

Over 80 internet functions are available on the new system, including Wikipedia, jokes, news, festival GIFS, navigation, online music streaming, in-car control, and crucial in-car alert. In terms of safety, the SUV is equipped with six airbags, ISOFIX mounts, TPMS, ESP, traction control, hill descent control, and four-wheel disc brakes.

The MG Astor SUV will be available with two engine choices. The first is the 1.4-litre, four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, which produces 138 bhp at 5600 rpm and 220 Nm at 3600 rpm and is paired with a six-speed automated transmission. The 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine is paired with either a manual or an eight-step CVT transmission. 

Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun, which are more equivalent, start at Rs 10.50 lakh. The Hyundai Creta begins at Rs 10.16 lakh, while the Kia Seltos starts at Rs 9.95 lakh. The Astor is also less expensive than the Renault Duster, which starts at Rs 9.86 lakh.