No EV but it is the CNG vehicle era in India
No EV but it is the CNG vehicle era in India
India has seen a depreciation in the sales of Electric Vehicles while on the other hand, CNG cars have been gaining more and more popularity. The reason cannot be stated exactly, but as petrol and diesel prices are soaring, CNG cars are a boon. Major car manufacturers like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, and Toyota have recognized this trend and have introduced various CNG models. Let’s break down the car details that keep up with the game, highlighting their features, prices, and benefits:
Maruti Suzuki's Alto K10 is the most affordable CNG car in India, starting at Rs 5.74 lakh. It features a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 57hp and 82Nm of torque in CNG mode. The car is equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox, making it a budget-friendly choice for many. The compact design and efficient fuel consumption make it ideal for city driving.
The S-Presso CNG shares the same 1.0-litre petrol-CNG engine as the Alto K10, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Prices range from Rs 5.92 lakh to Rs 6.12 lakh, with options available in LXi and VXi variants. Known for its SUV-inspired design and high ground clearance, the S-Presso is perfect for both urban and semi-urban settings.
For those needing more space, the Maruti Suzuki Eeco CNG offers a 1.2-litre petrol engine that generates 81hp on petrol and 72hp on CNG. This versatile vehicle is available in a single variant, priced at Rs 6.58 lakh. Its spacious interior and robust build make it a popular choice for both family and commercial use.
Another hatchback option is the Celerio CNG, powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. It is available in the VXi variant and offers an impressive mileage of 34.43 km/kg, priced at Rs 6.74 lakh. The Celerio is appreciated for its easy handling, spacious cabin, and modern features, making it a convenient choice for city dwellers.
The WagonR comes with a choice of two petrol engines, but the CNG kit is paired with the 1.0-litre engine. This practical vehicle is available from Rs 6.45 lakh to Rs 6.89 lakh. Known for its tall-boy design, the WagonR provides ample headroom and comfort, making it a favourite among families.
Tata Motors uses dual-cylinder technology in the Tiago CNG, freeing up boot space typically occupied by a conventional CNG cylinder. The 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine produces 73hp and 103Nm of torque in CNG mode. Prices range from Rs 6.60 lakh to Rs 8.90 lakh, with both manual and AMT transmission options. The Tiago's robust build quality and feature-rich interior make it a competitive choice in the hatchback segment.
The Tata Punch CNG also features a twin-tank setup and is powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine. It is the most affordable CNG SUV in India, starting at Rs 7.23 lakh. With its high ground clearance, rugged design, and spacious cabin, the Punch is perfect for those looking for an entry-level SUV with low running costs.
The Altroz CNG, priced between Rs 7.60 lakh and Rs 10.65 lakh, shares its 1.2-litre engine with the Tiago and Punch. This model is available with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Altroz stands out with its stylish design, five-star safety rating, and premium features, making it an attractive option in the premium hatchback segment.
The Tigor CNG, priced between Rs 7.75 lakh and Rs 9.55 lakh, offers a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine with 73hp in CNG mode. It comes with both manual and AMT transmission options. Known for its spacious interior, large boot, and sleek design, the Tigor is a practical choice for families and professionals alike.
The Grand i10 Nios CNG combines a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with a CNG kit, producing 69hp and 95Nm of torque. Available with a 5-speed manual gearbox, it is priced from Rs 7.68 lakh to Rs 8.23 lakh. The Grand i10 Nios offers a refined driving experience, modern features, and a comfortable interior, making it a popular choice in the compact hatchback segment.
Competing with the Tata Tigor CNG, the Hyundai Aura CNG is powered by a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder engine generating 69hp and 92Nm. It is available in S and SX variants, priced at Rs 8.31 lakh and Rs 9.05 lakh respectively. The Aura combines sleek styling, a spacious cabin, and advanced features, appealing to both families and professionals.
The Exter CNG uses a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 69hp and 95Nm. It boasts a fuel efficiency of 27.10 km/kg and is available in S and SX variants, priced at Rs 8.43 lakh and Rs 9.16 lakh. With its compact SUV design, the Exter offers a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency, making it a versatile choice for urban driving.
The Toyota Glanza, based on the Maruti Baleno, features a 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder engine. Available in S and G variants, it is priced between Rs 8.65 lakh and Rs 9.68 lakh. The Glanza offers a premium hatchback experience with its spacious interior, advanced features, and reliable performance.
The Taisor CNG shares its 1.2-litre petrol engine with the Maruti Fronx. Priced at Rs 8.71 lakh, it offers a claimed fuel efficiency of 28.5 km/kg. The Urban Cruiser Taisor combines rugged SUV styling with the practicality and efficiency of a CNG vehicle, appealing to budget-conscious SUV buyers.
Based on the Maruti Ertiga, the Rumion CNG is available in an entry-level variant priced at Rs 11.39 lakh, offering a fuel efficiency of 26.11 km/kg. The Rumion provides the spaciousness and practicality of an MPV with the cost benefits of CNG, making it an ideal choice for large families and commercial use.
The Grand Vitara CNG is available in Delta and Zeta variants, starting at Rs 13.15 lakh. It features a 1.5-litre petrol engine and offers a premium CNG option for SUV enthusiasts. The Grand Vitara combines robust performance, advanced features, and stylish design, catering to those looking for a premium CNG SUV.
The Toyota Hyryder CNG, priced from Rs 13.71 lakh, is the most premium CNG SUV in India. It combines a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine with a 5-speed manual transmission, providing a fuel efficiency of 26.60 km/kg. The Hyryder offers a luxurious driving experience, advanced technology, and impressive efficiency, making it a top choice in the premium SUV segment.
Overall,The growing demand for CNG vehicles in India has led manufacturers to offer a wide range of models, catering to different needs and budgets. From affordable hatchbacks to premium SUVs, there are numerous options for consumers looking to reduce their running costs without compromising on performance. As the market continues to evolve, we can expect even more advancements and choices in the CNG vehicle segment. With the increasing availability of CNG fueling stations and the economic benefits of CNG, it's no surprise that more Indian consumers are turning to these environmentally friendly and cost-effective vehicles.
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