MG Astor : The MG Astor has been turning heads since its debut, but the 2026 model brings fresh updates that make it a standout in India’s crowded compact SUV segment.
With sharper styling, advanced driver aids, and prices starting at just ₹9.65 lakh ex-showroom, it’s luring buyers who want premium feels without breaking the bank.
Fresh Facelift and Bold Road Presence
MG rolled out the Astor facelift late last year, hitting roads with a redesigned front grille that’s wider and more aggressive, flanked by sleek LED headlights and integrated DRLs.
The rear gets new taillights too, giving it a modern vibe that stands tall against rivals like the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos.
At 4323mm long, 1809mm wide, and 1650mm high, with a 2585mm wheelbase, it commands respect on city streets while slipping into tight parking spots effortlessly—ground clearance of 200mm handles our pothole-ridden roads just fine.
I remember spotting one zipping through Delhi traffic last week; the Blackstorm edition’s glossy accents made it pop amid the usual suspects. Boot space clocks in at 448 liters, plenty for weekend getaways, and the 48-liter tank means fewer pit stops.
Powertrains That Balance Punch and Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2026 Astor sticks to a reliable 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine churning out 110PS at 6000rpm and 144Nm at 4400rpm—smooth and refined for daily commutes.
Pair it with a 5-speed manual for ₹9.65 lakh (Sprint) or a CVT auto up to ₹15.16 lakh (Savvy Pro), and you’ve got options for every driver.
Claimed mileage hovers at 15.43kmpl for MT and 14.82kmpl for CVT, though real-world figures dip to 12-13kmpl in bumper-to-bumper chaos, which is par for the segment.
No turbo or hybrid yet for India, despite global ZS HEV teases, but the peppy pull from low revs makes overtakes on highways a breeze without drama. Owners rave about the refined vibes—no turbo lag headaches here.
Cabin Comfort Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
Step inside, and the Astor feels like a step up from its price tag. Dual 10.25-inch screens dominate the dash—one for instruments, one for infotainment—running MG’s i-Smart suite with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats in higher trims (Sharp Pro at ₹13.23 lakh) scream luxury, while powered driver’s seat and 360-degree camera make maneuvering a cinch.
Rear passengers get decent legroom thanks to that long wheelbase, with AC vents and USB ports keeping everyone happy.
The AI assistant handles voice commands like “play my playlist” flawlessly, even spotting traffic jams ahead via connected tech. One owner in Bangalore called it “luxurious without the fuss,” perfect for family runs.
Safety First, With ADAS Edge
MG doesn’t skimp on protection—the Astor packs six airbags standard, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold, and TPMS across the board.
Level-2 ADAS on select variants (Sharp and above) brings adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, and forward collision warning, tuned for our erratic roads—though it shines best on marked highways.
While Bharat NCAP ratings are pending, its platform sibling MG ZS scored five stars in ASEAN NCAP, hinting at strong crash performance. In real tests, the suspension soaks up bumps softly, and brakes haul it down confidently from 80kmph.
Pricing and Variants Breakdown
Entry-level Sprint MT at ₹9.65 lakh gets basics like a touchscreen and rear camera, ideal for budget buyers. Step to Shine (₹11.20 lakh) for alloys and cruise control, Select (₹12.26 lakh) adds sunroof, and Sharp Pro (₹13.23 lakh) unlocks ventilated seats and ADAS.
Top Savvy Pro CVT at ₹15.16 lakh piles on wireless charging and premium audio—on-road in Delhi, expect ₹10.9-17.5 lakh.
Recent GST tweaks slashed prices by up to ₹54k last September, with occasional discounts like ₹20-40k in February 2026 keeping it competitive. Blackstorm limited editions tack on style for ₹30-50k extra.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
In a ring dominated by Creta (₹11-20 lakh), Seltos, Taigun, and Kushaq, the Astor punches with superior tech at lower entry prices—ADAS comes cheaper here than most.
Creta offers hybrids, but Astor’s cabin feels more premium; Taigun drives sharper but skimps on features. Kushaq matches safety but lacks the Astor’s gadget wow-factor.
For urban families in Delhi or Mumbai, it’s a smart pick over pricier options, blending British flair with Chinese efficiency.
Real Owner Tales and Long-Term Buzz
Chat with Astor owners, and stories flow: one Hyderabad buyer with 3.5 years and smooth service across cities; a high-km turbo owner at 84,000km with zero major issues; minor TPMS glitches fixed at home.
Service costs rival Maruti’s, though book ahead. Fuel guzzlers complain in city sludge, but highway runners love the ease.
A Bengaluru test drive in peak traffic? Peppy engine, insulated cabin, soft ride—feels effortless at 80kmph. Downsides? No diesel, and some wish for more boot flexibility.
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Why the MG Astor Fits India’s 2026 Roads Perfectly
As compact SUVs evolve, the 2026 MG Astor nails the sweet spot: affordable luxury, tech smarts, and family-friendly vibes for under ₹20 lakh on-road.
Whether dodging autos in Delhi or cruising NH44, it delivers without the hype. If you’re eyeing a Creta alternative with extras, test drive one—those ADAS beeps might just seal the deal.