While well-equipped, MG Astor somehow couldn’t get the attention of its target audience in the desired manner
MG Astor was launched in India in 2021, as one of the early entrants in the 4.2m – 4.5m SUV segment. While this segment now has close to two dozen offerings, the Astor at the time of its launch competed primarily with Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
As sales have not met expectations, it could be the right time to revisit the strategy for this segment. Although MG Astor is currently listed on the official website, Autocar India reports that it has been discontinued.
MG Astor discontinued
Right from the start, MG Astor was positioned as a well-equipped SUV, offering multiple segment-first features like Level-2 ADAS and a built-in AI personal assistant. It generated high initial interest, but struggled to capture significant market share. At that time, this space was dominated by highly popular options such as Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
These continue to lead the segment, and competition has become even tougher with newer 4.2m – 4.5m SUVs like Victoris, HyRyder, Grand Vitara, Sierra and Honda Elevate. MG Astor sales haven’t been satisfactory, as is evident in the sales.
Sales Recovered In Q3, But Volumes Remained Low
MG Astor recorded 1,715 units during January–September 2026, up 38.53% from 1,238 units in the corresponding period last year. However, this translated into a monthly average of just 191 units. Sales were concentrated in the third quarter, with July–September contributing 1,240 units. September volumes stood at 284 units, higher than the 90 units recorded a year earlier, but substantially below August’s 720 units.
Despite the recent improvement, Astor remained well behind prominent rivals. Hyundai Creta recorded 1,43,424 units during the same nine-month period, while Kia Seltos registered 99,655 units. Even lower-volume competitors such as Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun recorded 13,996, 9,945 and 9,559 units respectively.
Limited Engine Option
One of the key factors influencing Astor sales could be its limited powertrain options. It had a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine generating 110 hp and a 1.3-litre direct injection turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine producing 140 hp. Buyers had the option to go with the EV version (MG ZS EV), but EVs had relatively low demand at that time.
In February 2025, the turbo option offered with MG Astor was removed. This left the SUV with just a single engine option, offered with transmission choices of a 5-speed manual and a CVT. Newer SUVs in this segment offer a wider range of powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, CNG, hybrid and fully electric.
MG working on a replacement
Another reason to discontinue Astor could be that the platform may no longer support the critical upgrades needed to stay competitive in this segment. While MG has expanded its portfolio with new models like Hector Tomahawk EV, Hector Tomahawk PHEV and Majestor, the high-volume midsize SUV segment is not something to be ignored by a leading brand.
MG is working on an Astor replacement, which could be based on the modular SIGMA (SAIC Intelligent Global Modular Architecture) platform. Models like the MG One SUV sold overseas are already using this platform. It can support multiple powertrains including ICE, pure electric and hybrid. Interestingly, MG had showcased updated ZS HEV at the 2025 Auto Expo.
With a broader range of powertrain options, MG’s upcoming new SUV will have a better chance of cracking the tough midsize SUV space in India. This new platform will also support more advanced features and technologies. Launch of MG Astor replacement SUV is expected in 2027.
