It is no secret that MG Motors is working on the petrol derivative of the ZS EV for the Indian market. The new SUV is rumoured to be called the MG Astor in our country. The SUV has been spotted testing numerous times. Recently, the Astor was spotted in a parking lot.
The latest spy images reveal the MG Astor’s exterior as well as its interior. The SUV is based on the revised ZS petrol, which is already on sale in select international markets. The spotted model has new front grille and revised headlamps. The report also claims that the new Astor is equipped with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) similar to the MG Gloster.
We informed you earlier that the MG Astor could be the first model in its category to offer ADAS. It is likely to offer features such as an autonomous emergency braking system, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front collision warning and hands-free auto parking.
The spotted model has an all-black interior with contrasting silver trim. The central console is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system, which is angled towards the driver. The AC vent with silver surround is positioned above the infotainment system, while the round-shaped AC vents are placed on either side of the dashboard. Silver trim is also visible on the door panels, around the automatic gearbox unit and on the multi-functional steering wheel.
The SUV has all-black seats, while the gearbox and steering wheel are finished in black leather. Also visible is the central armrest and cup holders on the central console. The SUV’s cabin looks clean and clutter-free. In terms of features, the SUV is likely to get LED lighting system, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, smartphone connectivity, connected car tech, tyre pressuring monitoring system, automatic AC, sunroof, and others.
The MG Astor is expected to be offered in petrol version only. The SUV is expected to come in two engine options – a a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol and a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol. While the naturally-aspirated petrol engine will produce around 120bhp and 150Nm of torque, the turbocharged engine is capable of producing 163bhp of power and 230Nm of torque. Both manual and automatic gearbox options will be on offer.
The MG Astor was first showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo as the ZS petrol. Expected to be priced around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh, the MG Astor will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the Skoda Kushaq. The automaker is aiming to fully utilise its Halol-based manufacturing plant in Gujarat.
Source – Team-BHP
