My uncle is in the market for a new car and being a Honda loyalist, the Elevate CVT was his first choice. A few days ago, he checked out MG Astor, and really loved it.
Even though he is keen to go for the MG, he is confused why this car doesn’t sell more.
Prasad Dongare, Nashik
Autocar India says:The MG Astor stands out for its premium cabin, solid build quality, and smooth, relaxed driving experience. MG has also recently updated the Astor with features like ventilated front seats and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, in addition to a panoramic sunroof, that give it an edge over the Honda Elevate in terms of equipment.
That said, there are a few reasons why it doesn’t sell in bigger numbers. While its 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a CVT is ideal for easy-going city driving, it’s not as responsive as the Elevate’s setup, which feels a bit more energetic. More importantly, many Astor owners report poor city fuel efficiency—often in single digits. Although the Elevate CVT is also not exceptionally frugal, it typically manages around 9kpl in urban conditions, which is slightly better.
Another factor to consider is resale. The Elevate, being a Honda, is likely to retain its value better over time, whereas the Astor’s resale is relatively weaker. So, if your uncle is leaning toward the Astor, it’s a solid choice for comfort and features—but he should factor in the fuel costs and potential resale value before deciding.