MG VS Hybrid Spotted in India: A Restyled Astor Previews Future Plans?

The MG VS HEV is a hybrid version of the Astor SUV with a facelifted design. The vehicle was spied in India for the first time, completely undisguised. This hints that the VS HEV or an Astor facelift with a similar design could make it to Indian shores.

MG VS HEV: Borrowing Cues from Abroad

The MG VS HEV is basically a restyled version of the Astor, which MG is currently selling in India. It bears a striking resemblance to the Astor sold in foreign markets, like Thailand and Indonesia. The biggest difference on the outside is up front, where it gets new headlights and an enclosed grille, unlike the open design of the Astor.

Inside, the spied shots don't show much, but they do show a restyled dashboard and a revised central tunnel housing a new gear lever in the VS HEV. This hints at a probably more modern, functional cabin layout for it, opposed to the current Astor. The Thai-spec model has a dual-screen setup, hinting further at the possible technological up-grades for our market.

Hybrid Powertrain: A Strong Contender in the Eco-Friendly Segment

The MG VS HEV draws power from a 1.5-litre petrol engine linked with an electric motor, making a combined output of 177 horsepower. The hybrid powertrain is the same as on the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Hybrid and the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Hybrid; it pitches the MG VS HEV directly against the established players. 

Glimpse into Future MG Astor?

Arrival of the VS HEV does raise a very interesting question: Is it a preview of a mid-life facelift for Astor in India? Though it should get substantial design changes in the next- generation Astor after a couple of years, MG might present a facelift inspired by the VS HEV to keep the current Astor competitive in the meantime.  

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Offers Big Savings on Popular Cars This April

MG Electric and Hybrid Ambition

This spotting has been in the context of the aggressive product launch strategy chalked out by MG for the Indian market. The brand is likely to launch as many as eight new vehicles between 2025 and 2028, with an enhanced focus on electric and hybrid models. MG is all set to launch the facelifted version of the Gloster SUV and the highly- 
anticipated ZS EV or the MG Cloud EV later this year in the Indian market. 

The spotting of the MG VS HEV in India is big news for MG and the Indian car market in general. It speaks to MG's commitment to offer good-looking, fuel-efficient vehicles and  most likely opens the door for a refreshed Astor or a new hybrid option as a whole. A lot  more is awaited as the details would unravel soon, but for now, MG fans and eco- conscious car buyers have a lot to look forward to.

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