MG Motor Discontinues Astor Midsize SUV in India With Replacement Planned for 2027

MG Motor India has officially discontinued the Astor midsize SUV after lower-than-expected sales, with a replacement model currently in development for a 2027 launch. First introduced to the Indian market in 2021, the Astor initially competed against popular models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun.

Sales and Performance

During its run, the SUV struggled to capture a strong market share, averaging double or triple-digit monthly sales. Dealer sources reported a monthly average of 112 units between September 2025 and September 2026. Data for January through September 2026 showed total sales of 1,715 units, marking a 38.53 percent increase from 1,238 units during the same period in the previous year. September 2025 recorded 90 units, while September 2026 saw 284 units. In comparison, rival models posted much higher figures over the same nine-month period in 2026, with the Hyundai Creta reaching 1,43,424 units and the Kia Seltos registering 99,655 units. Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun recorded 13,996, 9,945, and 9,559 units respectively.

Factors Behind Discontinuation

Industry observers point to limited powertrain options as a major hurdle. The Astor launched with a 110 hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine and a 140 hp 1.3-litre direct-injection turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. The turbo variant was dropped in February 2025, leaving only the 1.5-litre engine paired with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission. Newer competitors offered petrol, diesel, CNG, and hybrid options. Additional factors included a relatively low-slung crossover design that made the vehicle look smaller than upright rivals, and an older platform that could not support vital technological upgrades.

Future Plans

MG is preparing a replacement vehicle likely built on the modular SIGMA platform, which supports pure-combustion, hybrid, and electric powertrains. The brand also expanded its wider portfolio with models like the Hector Tomahawk EV, Hector Tomahawk PHEV, and Majestor.

Context

The midsize SUV segment is one of the most fiercely contested and high-volume categories in the Indian automobile market, requiring constant updates and diverse engine choices to retain buyer interest.