The MG Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech (110 Hp) is a front-wheel-drive, five-seater compact SUV produced by the Chinese-owned British automaker MG Motor. Introduced in September 2021, this variant represents an entry-level offering within the broader Astor lineup, positioned below the higher-output turbocharged engine options. The Astor marked MG’s continued expansion into the competitive Indian market, aiming to provide a feature-rich and stylish SUV at a competitive price point. This specific 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and five-speed manual transmission combination was designed to appeal to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | Astor |
| Generation | Astor |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 VTi-Tech (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | BS 6 |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 144 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 106.21 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 91.41 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.33 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.61 UK qt |
| Coolant | 5.4 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 5.71 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 4.75 UK qt |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 12.68 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 10.56 UK gal |
| Length | 4323 mm |
| Length (in.) | 170.2 in. |
| Width | 1809 mm |
| Width (in.) | 71.22 in. |
| Height | 1650 mm |
| Height (in.) | 64.96 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2585 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 101.77 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The MG Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech utilizes a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine, internally designated as a VTi-Tech unit, employs a multi-point fuel injection system to deliver fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The engine’s 110 horsepower output at 6000 rpm and 144 Nm (106.21 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm are relatively modest, reflecting its focus on fuel economy rather than high performance. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, providing a straightforward and reliable gear-changing experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for everyday drivability and fuel efficiency, prioritizing smooth acceleration and comfortable cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech delivers a predictable and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for city driving and highway merging, but it won’t provide the brisk performance of the turbocharged variants. The five-speed manual transmission allows for driver engagement, but the relatively low horsepower and torque figures mean frequent downshifts are necessary when tackling inclines or overtaking. The suspension setup, featuring McPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, provides a decent balance between ride comfort and handling. Steering feel is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Compared to the Astor’s turbocharged options, the 1.5-liter engine is noticeably less responsive, but it offers a smoother and more linear power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 VTi-Tech trim of the MG Astor typically serves as the base model, offering a solid set of standard features. These generally include air conditioning, power windows, power-adjustable side mirrors, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and essential safety features like ABS and dual airbags. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, and the dashboard features a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras available for this trim often include alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rear parking camera, and additional safety features like electronic stability control. The overall interior ambiance is geared towards practicality and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The MG Astor utilizes a front-wheel-drive chassis with independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a reasonable compromise between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system employs a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering control. The Astor rides on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with 215/55 R17 tires, providing a good balance between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech was generally well-received in the Indian market as an affordable and feature-rich SUV. Critics praised its value for money, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, the engine’s lack of power was a common criticism, particularly when compared to the turbocharged alternatives. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.5-liter engine offered a competitive advantage over the more powerful variants. Compared to rivals like the Hyundai Venue and Tata Nexon, the Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech offered a compelling package, particularly for buyers prioritizing affordability and practicality. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the 1.5-liter engine and transmission.
Legacy
The MG Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech represents an important entry point for MG into the Indian SUV market. While not the most powerful or technologically advanced variant, it provided a crucial foundation for the Astor lineup, attracting a wider range of buyers. The 1.5-liter engine and five-speed manual transmission combination proved to be reliable and durable, and the Astor continues to be a popular choice in the used car market. As MG continues to expand its presence in the global automotive landscape, the Astor 1.5 VTi-Tech will be remembered as a key model in establishing the brand’s reputation for value and practicality.
