New MG Astor : The compact SUV segment has become predictable – same features, similar designs, and marketing speak about sportiness that most buyers don’t actually want. Then there’s the new MG Astor, which takes a refreshingly different approach.

Instead of chasing trends, MG has created something that feels genuinely innovative while remaining grounded in practicality. After extensive time with this tech-loaded SUV, I’m impressed by how it manages to stand out without trying too hard.

New MG Astor Exterior Design That Ages Well

The updated Astor’s design philosophy can be summed up as “refined evolution.” The celestial grille pattern now features deeper elements that create interesting shadow play throughout the day.

It’s the kind of detail you notice and appreciate over time rather than being hit over the head with aggressive styling.

The LED lighting signature has been completely reimagined. The DRLs form a distinctive pattern that’s visible from distance, while the projector headlamps deliver impressive illumination.

The fog lamp housing integrates seamlessly with the front bumper design, avoiding the tacked-on appearance that plagues some competitors.

Along the sides, the character lines flow naturally without being overdone. The 17-inch alloys feature an intricate pattern that photographs well and looks premium in person.

The floating roof effect, achieved through gloss black pillars, adds contemporary flair without compromising rear visibility. Even practical elements like door handles and mirrors show attention to detail in their execution.

Interior Where Tech Meets Comfort

Slide into the Astor’s cabin, and you’re greeted by that massive 14.1-inch touchscreen that commands attention. But unlike some rivals where big screens feel like showing off, this one actually enhances usability.

The portrait orientation makes scrolling through menus natural, while the high resolution ensures text remains crisp and maps display clearly.

The star feature remains Astor, the AI personal assistant. Skeptics might dismiss it as gimmicky, but spend time with it and you’ll find yourself using it regularly. “Hey Astor, I’m feeling hot” adjusts the climate control. “What’s the weather tomorrow?” provides detailed forecasts.

It even tells jokes when you’re stuck in traffic – surprisingly effective at lightening the mood.

Material quality throughout impresses for the price point. The leatherette seats feel durable and easy to clean, while soft-touch plastics cover most contact areas.

The ambient lighting system creates a premium atmosphere at night without being gaudy. Even the pedals get aluminum covers – a small touch that shows MG sweated the details.

Space Management Done Right

Despite compact external dimensions, the Astor delivers impressive interior room.

The front seats offer excellent support with side bolstering that keeps you in place without feeling restrictive. Height adjustment range accommodates various body types, while the powered driver’s seat adds convenience.

Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom that embarrasses some larger SUVs. The seat base is set at the right height, providing under-thigh support often missing in this segment.

Three adults fit without playing shoulder gymnastics, aided by the minimal transmission tunnel. Dedicated rear AC vents with individual controls ensure comfort regardless of seating position.

The 448-liter boot proves its worth in real-world use. The square shape maximizes usability, while the low loading height saves your back.

Clever storage solutions throughout include a cooled glovebox, large door pockets, and a wireless charging pad positioned where phones won’t slide around.

Powertrain Options That Deliver

Two engines serve different buyer priorities. The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated unit produces 110 hp, focusing on smoothness and efficiency.

Power delivery is linear and predictable, perfect for relaxed driving. The CVT gearbox paired with this engine deserves praise – MG’s programming minimizes drone while maintaining efficiency.

The turbocharged 1.3-liter option transforms the Astor’s character with 140 hp and strong mid-range punch. Turbo lag is minimal, with meaningful thrust arriving from just 1,600 rpm.

The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts intelligently, holding gears when needed yet shifting early for economy when cruising.

Both engines impress with refinement levels. Noise isolation is excellent, with engine sounds only intruding under hard acceleration.

Real-world fuel economy ranges from 14-16 kmpl for the turbo in mixed driving, while the naturally aspirated version achieves 16-18 kmpl with a lighter foot.

Ride and Handling Balance

The Astor’s suspension tuning prioritizes comfort without becoming floaty. Bad roads that would crash through firmer-riding rivals are absorbed with impressive composure.

Speed bumps and potholes barely register, making daily commutes less tiresome.

Handling remains predictable if not particularly engaging. Body roll is present but well-controlled, while the steering offers enough weight to inspire confidence.

The light steering at parking speeds transforms into something more substantial at highway velocities. It’s not a driver’s car, but that’s not what buyers in this segment typically want.

Safety Beyond the Basics

MG deserves credit for democratizing safety features. Six airbags across all variants sets a benchmark others should follow.

The Level 2 ADAS suite includes adaptive cruise control that actually works in Indian traffic conditions, maintaining distance intelligently without phantom braking.

The 360-degree camera system uses high-resolution sensors providing crystal-clear views.

Multiple display modes help in different scenarios, from tight parking spots to navigating narrow lanes. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert add confidence in situations where visibility is compromised.

Daily Living Highlights

Living with the Astor reveals thoughtful touches throughout. The air purifier isn’t just marketing – it genuinely improves cabin air quality in polluted cities.

The powered tailgate opens to the perfect height, avoiding ceiling scrapes in low garages.

Connected car features work reliably, from remote engine start to geo-fencing alerts.

The companion app responds quickly, letting you pre-cool the cabin or check fuel levels remotely. Even small conveniences like rain-sensing wipers and auto-dimming mirrors reduce daily driving stress.

Market Positioning

Against established rivals like Creta and Seltos, the Astor competes with technology and value.

While brand perception remains a work in progress, the product itself confidently matches any competitor. The comprehensive feature list at competitive prices makes a compelling argument.

New MG Astor The Verdict

The new MG Astor succeeds by being thoughtfully different. Rather than following the herd with sporty pretensions, it focuses on technology that enhances daily life.

The AI assistant could have been a gimmick but proves genuinely useful. Safety features could have been options but come standard.

For buyers wanting something beyond the usual compact SUV formula, the Astor delivers.

It combines space, comfort, technology, and safety in a package that makes sense for modern families. Sometimes the best choice is the one that dares to be different, and the Astor proves this convincingly.