Experience the MG Astor: A Detailed Look at the Base Model
The MG Astor is a popular compact SUV, and even its base model offers a remarkable array of features. This article will provide a detailed overview of what you can expect from the entry-level Astor, covering its design, technology, performance, and safety.
Pricing and Performance
The MG Astor’s base model starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹9.98 lakhs. For on-road, the price is approximately ₹11.50 lakhs in Lucknow, without accessories.
The Astor offers two petrol engine choices:
- 1.5-liter Non-Turbo Petrol Engine: This engine produces 110 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque. It offers a mileage of around 18-19 kilometers per liter.
- 1.3-liter Turbo Petrol Engine: This more powerful option delivers 140 PS of power and 220 Nm of torque. Expect a mileage of approximately 15-16 kilometers per liter with this engine.
Striking Exterior Design
The MG Astor boasts an excellent SUV presence, even in its base trim.
- Front Profile: It features a distinctive 3D-type front grille with a large MG logo at the center. The base model does not include a 360-degree camera. For illumination, it comes with DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and projector LED headlights. Fog lamps are not available in the base model. The front bumper has a gloss black finish, a towing hook option, and a skid plate.
- Side View: The side profile reveals body-colored ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) which are dual-tone and include integrated turn indicators. The door handles are also body-colored. The car rides on 16-inch steel rims fitted with stylish wheel covers and 215/60 R16 radial tires. Black cladding runs along the lower edges. The A-pillar is body-colored, while the B-pillar has a matt black finish. The roof is plain, as a sunroof is not included in the base model. Dual wipers and washers are provided for clear visibility.
- Rear Design: The rear features updated taillights that incorporate indicators and reverse lights. A rear wiper and defogger are standard from the base model, along with a high-mount stop lamp and a shark fin antenna. For parking assistance, three reverse parking sensors are integrated into the bumper. The number plate light is yellow. The rear also includes a towing option, a dummy exhaust design, and a silver-finished skid plate.
Compact SUV Dimensions
The MG Astor is a compact SUV with practical dimensions for urban driving and highway comfort:
- Length: 4323 mm
- Width: 1809 mm
- Height: 1650 mm
- Wheelbase: 2585 mm
- Ground Clearance: 190 mm
Generous Boot Space
The Astor offers a substantial boot space of 488 liters, which is ample for luggage. The boot can be easily opened by pressing the MG logo. It includes a boot light for convenience. While a parcel tray is not present in the base model, storage space and a toolkit are provided. The rear seats offer a 60:40 split feature, allowing them to be folded to expand luggage capacity. A normal steel-rimmed spare tire is also included.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the MG Astor’s base model, and you’ll find a premium and feature-rich cabin.
- Doors and Seating: The door trims feature a dual-tone finish with a soft-touch material. All four power window controls are located on the door, along with a door opener, speakers, and a bottle holder. The seats are made of fabric. The driver’s seat offers both height adjustment and recline functions. The rear seats provide good legroom and thigh support. Both front and rear seats come with adjustable headrests. A rear armrest with two cup holders enhances comfort for rear passengers. Rear AC vents are also provided.
- Dashboard and Controls: The dashboard has a premium feel with soft-touch materials and gloss black accents. The instrument cluster is analog, featuring a speedometer and an RPM meter. A digital multi-information display (MID) in the center shows information like range, audio, trip details, service alerts, and low fuel warnings. This MID is controlled via buttons on the steering wheel.
- Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and features the MG logo. It includes controls for telephony, infotainment, and the MID. The steering wheel is adjustable for both tilt and telescopic positions.
- Infotainment: A touchscreen infotainment system is a standard feature in the base model, offering connectivity options like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, USB, and AUX. Below the touchscreen, you’ll find controls for home, volume, fan speed, defogger, and temperature.
- Convenience Features: The Astor base model includes a 12V charging outlet and two Type-A USB ports. Switches for traction control and hill descent control are also present. The car comes with a 5-speed manual transmission (automatic and CVT options are available in higher variants). A manual handbrake and a soft-touch armrest with storage space further enhance convenience. The spacious glovebox is perfect for documents.
- Lighting: White LED roof lights provide good interior illumination.
Advanced Safety Features
The MG Astor prioritizes safety, even in its base model, offering a comprehensive suite of features:
- Dual Airbags: Driver and co-driver airbags are standard.
- ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for improved braking control.
- Reverse Parking Sensors: To assist with parking.
- Speed Alert System: For safe driving.
- Seatbelt Warning: Alerts occupants to fasten seatbelts.
- Engine Immobilizer: Prevents unauthorized engine starting.
- Crash Sensor: Detects impacts.
- Traction Control: Helps maintain grip on slippery surfaces.
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System): Monitors tire pressure for safety.
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program): Enhances vehicle stability.
Color Options and Warranty
The MG Astor is available in a variety of attractive colors, including White, Red, Silver, Orange, and Black. Special editions like the Blackstorm Edition and 100-year Limited Edition are also offered.
The Astor comes with a 3-year unlimited kilometer warranty, which can be extended for an additional cost. The fuel tank capacity is 45 liters.
Overall, the MG Astor’s base model is packed with features that offer excellent value, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
