MG Astor Upgraded: Elevating affordable luxury with tech, safety, and style

In a segment that thrives on innovation and value, MG Motor has given the Astor 2025 a much-needed refresh. One of the notable updates to the Shine variant is the addition of a panoramic sunroof, a feature typically reserved for higher-end models. Offering this at a price below ₹12.5 lakh, MG makes the Astor a compelling choice for buyers looking for an affordable SUV with premium features. To further enhance the in-car experience, the Shine variant now also comes equipped with a six-speaker audio system, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience.

Refresh that redefines value

The Select variant also has certain key upgrades, with stronger emphasis on safety and comfort. It now comes equipped with six airbags as standard, ensuring better protection for passengers. The inclusion of premium ivory leatherette seats also elevates the cabin’s aesthetics, creating a more appealing space to spend time in. These updates align with MG’s ongoing focus on making safety and comfort more accessible at different price points within the lineup.

Beyond specific updates, the Astor 2025 continues to offer an impressive array of features across the board. Ventilated front seats, a wireless charger, and seamless smartphone integration with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay add to the convenience factor. The auto-dimming IRVM provides an extra layer of security, while MG’s latest i-SMART 2.0 system brings more than 80 connected features, including JIO Voice Recognition. This AI-powered voice assistant can handle tasks from checking the weather to providing live cricket score, adding to the SUV’s tech-laden experience.

Feature-packed for a smarter drive

MG Astor has been a pioneer in introducing AI-powered driving to this segment. It was the first SUV in India to feature a personal AI assistant, and with Level 2 ADAS, it continues to push the envelope in driver assistance technology. The ADAS suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking—features that are no longer luxuries but necessities for modern-day driving. With over 50 safety features onboard, the Astor is built to appeal to both tech-savvy buyers and families looking for peace of mind. As customer expectations evolve, the demand for ADAS is growing rapidly, making these advanced safety systems an increasingly important factor in the purchase decision.

Under the hood, the Astor retains its proven powertrain options. The 1.5L VTi-TECH petrol engine continues to be available with a five-speed manual transmission or a CVT, delivering a balance of efficiency and everyday usability.

For those who prefer a more spirited drive, the 1.3L Turbo petrol engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, provides a more engaging performance. The Astor has earned a reputation for its well-tuned ride quality, striking a fine balance between comfort and handling.

Balancing luxury and affordability

With this latest update, MG Motor India is aiming to make premium SUV features more accessible to a broader audience. By offering segment-first features like a panoramic sunroof at an aggressive price point, the Astor positions itself as a strong value-for-money proposition in the urban SUV space.

Despite stiff competition from Hyundai, Kia, and Volkswagen, MG has managed to carve out a niche by focussing on technology, safety, and premium comfort without pushing the price beyond reach. Whether this strategy translates to stronger sales remains to be seen, but it certainly makes the Astor an even more compelling option for buyers looking for a well-rounded SUV.

The MG Astor is priced between ₹9.99 lakh and ₹17.55 lakh depending on the variant.

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