Morris Garages India has added another weapon to their arsenal, and it’s called the Astor. Priced between Rs 9.78 lakh and Rs 16.78 lakh, the compact SUV lands in a segment dominated by the South Koreans. But, unlike them, the Astor is a petrol-only model. That said, there are two engines and three transmission options. Also, MG’s latest offering introduces some segment-first features, but more on that in a bit. First, the detailed price list:

You have to agree – that is an intriguing set of figures. And, the list isn’t overwhelming in terms of choices. MG says that bookings for the Astor will open on October 21, 2021, while deliveries of the first batch should commence sometime next month.

As mentioned above, there are two engine options –1.5-litre petrol and 1.35-litre turbo-petrol. The former pumps out 108bhp/144Nm, whereas the latter generates 138bhp/220Nm. As standard, the larger powerplant comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. However, there’s an option for a CVT as well. The turbocharged unit, on the other hand, comes coupled to a 6-speed torque converter. Unfortunately, there’s no manual gearbox on offer with the punchier mill.

As is the case, the list of creature comforts depends on which trim one settles for. The Astor follows the same mantra as other MG products – offering a plethora of features to strike a better value proposition. The list includes a panoramic sunroof, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster, heated front seats and i-Smart connected-car tech with 80+ features. Ticking the segment-first box are gizmos such as three steering modes, personal AI assistant and Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). The latter, which is an optional extra with range-topping CVT and AT variants, comprises 14 features, including adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist, automatic emergency braking, intelligent headlamp control and Blind Spot Detection.

MG has devised three upholstery options for the Astor – dual-tone Sangria Red, two-tone Iconic Ivory and Tuxedo Black. For the paint, there are five choices – Spiced Orange, Aurora Silver, Glaze Red, Candy White and Starry Black. The standard warranty is three years/unlimited km. Besides that, the SUV comes with three years of roadside assistance and three labour-free services. And yes, one can purchase extended warranty packages and customise their car with 180+ options.

Besides competing with the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos, the MG Astor will rival the Skoda Kushaq, Nissan Kicks and the Volkswagen Taigun. Out of the lot, which one is your pick?