The mid-size SUV segment is one of the most popular and lucrative segments in our market for a long time now. The Creta holds the undisputed title of the segment leader by quite some margin. Products like the Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, MG Hector are also becoming more and more popular with each passing month. Volkswagen and Skoda are all set to launch their Taigun and Kushaq respectively in this segment in the coming months. In a bid to join the party and expand its market share in our market, MG is also set to bring in the IC engine-powered version of its popular ZS EV. There are rumours that it will feature a ton of segment-first features. There have been videos of the ZS, likely to be named Astor on the internet which reveal quite a lot about the mid-size SUV. Let us discuss what this might entail.
Also read: Production-spec Skoda Kushaq Images – Likely Launch in June 2021 – Creta-Rival!
MG ZS Petrol (Astor) – Spy Video
The video is quite detailed and has captured the SUV from all angles. This reveals quite a bit of details despite of it being camouflaged. On the front, the LED headlamps look very sleek and the front bumper is also redesigned to give the Astor a sharper look as compared to its outgoing counterpart. The front grille may be something like on the updated Hector with chrome dots with a large MG logo at the centre. The sides are accentuated by the stylish alloy wheels and nicely designed window line giving the side a distinct character. The overall dimensions will most likely be similar to the ZS EV, which was facelifted earlier. The rear section of the Astor is clearly visible and hosts wraparound LED taillamps making the rear look wider than it actually is. The rear bumper also seems a bit sporty with some lighting elements to it which could be the brake light strip. The SUV seems to feature roof rails as well with an integrated roof spoiler.
Also read: Upcoming Cars and SUVs in 2021 – Rapid, Taigun, HBX, XUV700 and more!
MG ZS Petrol (Astor) – Expected Interiors, Features and Safety
Although the video doesn’t offer a glimpse inside the cabin, we expect a ton of modern and connectivity features from the British carmaker, which is also the strong suite of MG as seen of the Hector products so far. This might include a larger 10.25-inch Digital Touchscreen Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Digital Instrument Cluster, Panoramic Sunroof, MG’s own updated Connected Car Tech with Hinglish Commands among other features. The safety aspect will also be taken into account because MG takes it very seriously. We expect 6 Airbags, ABS with EBD and ESC, Hill-Start Assist, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and much more which can be borrowed from the bigger Hector. To compete against the likes of Hyundai Creta, MG will have to equip its Astor with a ton of features.
Also read: Main Components of a 4-stroke IC Engine – Pistons, Valves, Camshafts, Turbos and more!
MG ZS Petrol (Astor) – Expected Powertrains, Prices and Rivals
The MG Astor will be a petrol car only, which means that there could be two powertrain options on offer. There could be a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated unit that makes 106 hp and 141 Nm and a more powerful 1.3-litre turbo petrol making 125 hp and 230 Nm. These engines will most likely come mated to either a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Prices range can be expected in the range of Rs 10 lakh and Rs 17 lakh, ex-showroom. Traditional rivals will include Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos but the upcoming Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun can also appear as tough competitors given that they will price their products very competitively due to high localization.
Also read: Car Sales Report for May 2021 – Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Kia, Mahindra and more!
Image Source: Barodian Boy Jatin
