The MG Astor is a style-conscious midsize SUV in India’s highly competitive market. With its premium design, luxurious interior, and modern amenities, the Astor targets buyers seeking more than spartan utility from their car. However, aside from the design and technological pull, the long-term cost of ownership plays a decisive role in its worth.
In five years, fuel, servicing, and maintenance can contribute significantly to the cost of possession. Unlike some rivals, the Astor’s relatively low mileage figures raise questions about its efficiency, making a closer look at its running cost essential.
If you’re considering the MG Astor for your family, here’s a breakdown of what it may cost you to drive and maintain over five years. This analysis will give you a clear picture of its practicality beyond the showroom price. So, let’s begin!
MG Astor: Fuel Type and Mileage Overview
The MG Astor is equipped with a single 1.5-litre petrol engine, which can be mated with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed CVT auto transmission. The mileage figures tested by ARAI are as follows:
| Fuel Type | Transmission | ARAI Mileage |
| Petrol | Manual | 15.43 kmpl |
| Petrol | Automatic | 14.82 kmpl |
The mileage returns listed above indicate that the Astor is available with both manual and automatic gearbox options. Still, customers will have to compromise their comfort and features for comparatively low fuel efficiency.
Real World Mileage Used for Calculations
During solo runs, the MG Astor CVT vehicle registered some of the lowest mileage rates in its segment. Under city traffic conditions, it managed only 8.3 kmpl, while driving on highways, it was marginally more efficient at 10.48 kmpl. This resulted in a combined efficiency of approximately 9.39 kmpl, which is significantly lower than the tested efficiency of 14.82 kmpl.
Several factors contribute to this disparity. The Astor’s 1,349 kg kerb weight places it above most competitors, and the absence of efficiency features like auto engine start/stop or eco driving modes also hinders economy-saving measures. For the customer, this means a higher real-world fuel cost than most rivals.
Annual and 5-Year Fuel Cost Estimate
For this estimation, the yearly driving distance of 10,000 km has been used. The following table provides an estimated yearly and 5-year fuel cost based on mileage values for various fuel types.
| Variant | Mileage (kmpl) | Fuel Required (Annual) | Annual Fuel Cost | 5-Year Fuel Cost | Fuel Cost/km |
| Petrol + Manual | 15.43 kmpl | Approx. 648 L | ₹64,800 | ₹324,000 | ₹6.48/km |
| Petrol + Auto | 14.82 kmpl | Approx. 675 L | ₹67,500 | ₹337,500 | ₹6.75/km |
Note: Please note that fuel prices have been assumed at ₹100/litre (average petrol price). Realistic costs will be subject to fluctuations in fuel prices, traffic, driving habits, and car maintenance.
MG Astor: Service and Maintenance Costs Over 5 years
The maintenance cost for the MG Astor over a 5-year period has been estimated to be ₹21,027. It includes regular servicing of the engine oil, filter, top-up fluids, and inspection. Astor’s initial 10,000 km or 12-month service is free of labour costs; therefore, the first-time buy is cheaper. Owners need to pay for parts and labour after the second service.
On average, the SUV incurs ₹350 per month on service, which is very low in its segment. However, they vary depending on the engine variant offered (1.5L petrol or 1.3L turbo-petrol), transmission, driving conditions, and prevailing local labour rates in urban areas. Extra repairs, consumables, and GST slightly increase the final bills.
Estimated MG Astor Service Costs by Year
MG Astor service cost estimates are displayed in the table below:
| Year | Routine Service | Additional Cost | Total Cost |
| 1st | ₹0 | ₹1828 | ₹1828 |
| 2nd | ₹2300 | ₹2103 | ₹4403 |
| 3rd | ₹2300 | ₹1828 | ₹4128 |
| 4th | ₹2300 | ₹4240 | ₹6540 |
| 5th | ₹2300 | ₹1828 | ₹4128 |
Over five years, the Astor’s service cost totals ₹21,027, which places it slightly above some compact SUVs but still competitive considering its size, premium features, and advanced technology.
Insurance and Other Recurring Expenses for MG Astor
Insurance remains a significant recurring cost for MG Astor owners, with premiums varying based on the variant, coverage type, Insured Declared Value (IDV), and add-on covers such as zero depreciation. The comprehensive average premium for FY 2023-24 varied between ₹22,000 and ₹30,000 per year, with turbo-engine variants and CVT gearbox incurring a bit more.
Additionally, replacing tyres is a costly affair, as the Astor is equipped with R15–R17 tubeless tyres, depending on the model. Over a five-year ownership cycle, at least one replacement is expected, with affordable options like CEAT or MRF priced between ₹4,500 and ₹5,500 per tyre, while premium brands can cost up to ₹17,000 each.
With a complete replacement set, the tyre cost can vary from ₹25,000 to ₹64,000 within a five-year period. With MG’s extensive service network, open maintenance plans, and minimal insurance costs, the Astor maintains long-term ownership expenses reasonably predictable for urban-dwelling professionals and families.
Total Ownership Cost of MG Astor (5-Year Estimate)
The table below describes the detailed overview of the total ownership cost of the MG Astor over five years:
| TCO Calculation | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | Total |
| Insurance Cost | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Fuel Cost | ₹64,800 | ₹64,800 | ₹64,800 | ₹64,800 | ₹64,800 | ₹3,24,000 |
| Tyre Change | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹32,000 | ₹0 | ₹32,000 | ₹64,000 |
| Service Cost | ₹1,828 | ₹4,403 | ₹4,128 | ₹6,540 | ₹4,128 | ₹21,027 |
| Depreciation | ₹3,26,100 | ₹1,08,700 | ₹2,17,400 | ₹2,17,400 | ₹2,17,400 | ₹10,87,000 |
| TCO | ₹4,14,728 – ₹4,22,728 | ₹1,99,903 – ₹2,07,903 | ₹3,38,328 – ₹3,46,328 | ₹3,10,740 – ₹3,18,740 | ₹3,40,328 – ₹3,48,328 | ₹16,04,027 – ₹17,44,027 |
| TCO/KM | ₹414 – ₹422 | ₹199 – ₹207 | ₹338 – ₹346 | ₹310 – ₹318 | ₹340 – ₹348 | ₹1604 – ₹1744 |
Overall, the 5-year total cost of ownership (TCO) of the vehicle will range between ₹16.04 lakh and ₹17.44 lakh, which translates to a running cost of ₹30–₹35 per kilometre. The costs provide potential owners with a clear understanding of the car’s long-term maintenance and running costs.
How to Reduce Your MG Astor’s Running Cost?
The MG Astor is revered for its luxurious interiors, sophisticated design, and contemporary technology, but, like any midsize SUV, operating costs are a key factor in achieving ownership satisfaction. Although not particularly fuel-efficient, adopting a few careful habits can reduce expenses in the long term and make the Astor a more cost-effective proposition.
Adhere to the Service Schedule
Regular servicing is the beginning of minimising running costs. Regular oil changes, filter cleaning, and scheduled checks help maintain the Astor’s engine in optimal condition and prevent costly breakdowns.
The approximate official 5-year maintenance cost is around ₹21,027, which is not bad for its class. Strict compliance with the schedule not only ensures a trouble-free drive but also retains your SUV’s resale value. A documented service history can also boost purchaser confidence if you ever need to sell or upgrade.
Drive Smoothly
With a kerb weight of more than 1,300 kg, the Astor is expected to return lower real-world fuel efficiency (approximately 9–11 kmpl for CVT). However, smooth driving with gentle acceleration, smooth pickup without jerks, and maintaining a constant speed can save fuel.
These actions also save on tyres, suspension, and brake wear, thereby lowering overall repair and replacement costs.
Check Tyre Pressure Regularly
MG Astor is fitted with R15–R17 tubeless tyres, which are costly to replace. Proper inflation not only increases fuel efficiency by 2–3% but also the life of the tyres, averting uneven wear and tear. Regularly checking tire pressure saves money and ensures safety. This small practice reduces the likelihood of tyre blowouts and gives you more confidence on highways.
Choose Proper Insurance
Astor insurance premiums range between ₹22,000 and ₹30,000 per year. This also includes add-ons such as zero depreciation or roadside assistance, which can save you a significant amount of money on repair claims.
By paying the additional premium, you reduce your out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident or when a part needs to be replaced. It also safeguards your SUV’s financial worth from unexpected situations.
Keep a Check on the Battery
Failing to monitor the coolant, brake oil, or battery state can lead to significant problems, such as overheating or a brake failure, both of which are costly to repair. Routine checks and regular top-ups keep the SUV in optimal condition on the road and help prevent inconvenient breakdowns.
An operational electrical and cooling system guarantees dependability, particularly for extended use. In addition, routine checks prevent insidious wear that can go unnoticed until it is costly.
Summary
The MG Astor offers luxury features and urban usability, but requires meticulous upkeep to remain cost-effective. With an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 14.8 – 15.4 kmpl, and achieving 9–11 kmpl in real-world conditions, fuel is the most significant cost driver.
Five years later, the ownership cost of Astor (fuel, service, insurance, tyres, depreciation) amounts to between ₹16.04 lakh and ₹17.44 lakh, working out to an approximate ₹30 – ₹35 per km.
While its running expense is greater than that of some of its competitors, careful driving, sound servicing, and prudent cost management can transform the Astor into a better value in the long run for business and family buyers who seek technology-packed comfort.
FAQs About MG Astor Running Cost Breakdown
Q. What are the MG Astor variants?
The MG Astor is available in various trims, featuring a 1.5L petrol engine with manual and CVT transmissions, as well as a 1.3L turbo-petrol engine with an automatic transmission. It is priced between approximately ₹10 lakh and ₹17.56 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q. What is the actual mileage of the MG Astor?
While ARAI claims 14.82 – 15.43 kmpl, real-world figures for the CVT range from 9 to 11 kmpl, depending on the city or highway conditions. The manual variant performs slightly better, averaging 12 – 13 kmpl.
Q. How much is the MG Astor’s total maintenance cost?
Scheduled maintenance in five years comes to about ₹21,027. That is, along with oil, filters, and labour, but without major maintenance or tyre replacement.
Q. How much does it cost to fuel the Astor per year?
At 10,000 km a year and ₹100 per litre of petrol, annual fuel expenses vary from ₹64,800 (manual) to ₹67,500 (automatic). Real-world figures, however, may push yearly fuel costs beyond ₹1 lakh, especially for CVT owners mainly driving in city traffic.
Q. How do I reduce the running cost of the MG Astor?
Drive smoothly, maintain proper tyre pressure, adhere to scheduled servicing, and select suitable insurance add-ons. Consistent fluid checks and preventive maintenance can also reduce unexpected expenses.
