KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- CNG cars in India remain popular for cost-effectiveness.
- Hyundai introduces dual-cylinder "Hy-CNG Duo" technology.
- Tata Motors to launch Nexon iCNG, India's first CNG SUV.
- Maruti plans CNG variants for Swift and Dzire models.
Despite the advent of electric vehicles in India, people are still opting for CNG-powered cars. This is because CNG cars are both environment and budget-friendly alternatives to petrol and diesel-powered cars. In addition to this, CNG cars provide a better value for money that caters to value-conscious buyers in India. In India, most of the brands offer CNG variants of the existing models in their portfolio. A company-fitted CNG kit meets every quality standard and proves much safer than aftermarket kits. If you are planning to buy a CNG car this year, here is the list of upcoming CNG cars in India. Before moving ahead, don't forget to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group to stay updated on the latest automotive news.
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Hyundai Dual Cylinder Tech CNG
Hyundai has recently trademarked a dual-cylinder CNG tech in India named "Hy-CNG Duo" technology. This technology is similar to Tata's dual-cylinder CNG that we have already seen in some popular models such as the Tata Punch, Tiago and others.
For Hyundai, the new Hy-CNG Duo tech has replaced the previously offered CNG kit that used to have a big single-cylinder. There are various CNG-powered models in the brand's portfolio such as the Grand i10 Nios, Exter and Aura. All these models come powered by a 1.2-litre engine with a single-cylinder CNG kit.
The new trademarked CNG tech by Hyundai hints at the arrival of more CNG models by the brand. We can expect the CNG variants of popular offerings such as the Hyundai i20 and Venue with dual-cylinder tech.
Tata Nexon iCNG
Tata Motors has recently announced the launch of the CNG-powered Nexon. The upcoming SUV will feature Tata's iCNG tech and it will become the first SUV to be powered by CNG with a turbocharger. With the arrival of a CNG variant, Nexon's position will be strengthened in the SUV segment in India.
The upcoming CNG Nexon will get the same features and design as the standard Nexon available right now. Basically, except for a CNG powertain, there will be no big changes in the SUV. Though, we can expect some tweaks in the suspension of the SUV. There are chances of the introduction of an AMT gearbox with the Nexon iCNG as well. Once launched, the Nexon iCNG will become a straight rival for the Maruti Brezza CNG.
Maruti Swift S-CNG
Maruti Suzuki has recently launched the new Swift in India. The 2024 Swift comes with some major design and mechanical changes. Unlike the previous model, the company didn't launch any CNG version of the new Swift. However, the automaker is expected to launch a CNG model soon in India. The CNG model of Swift's outgoing model was a great success for the automaker.
For those who are unaware, the new Swift is powered by a Z12E engine that churns out 82 bhp of power and 111 Nm of torque. While the hatchback will generate lower power figures in the CNG mode.
However, the brand has not announced the launch date officially, we can expect the CNG variant of the new Swift by the upcoming festive season in India. It will be offered with a premium of around 50-60k than the petrol variants.
Maruti Suzuki D-zire S-CNG
After the debut of the new Swift hatchback, we can expect the debut of the new Maruti Dzire in India. As per reports, the new Dzire will also get a CNG option. The budget sedan will get the same 1.2-litre NA engine with a CNG setup.
In terms of design, the new Dzire will get similar updates to the new Swift which includes a new rear design language with a new boot design and new taillights. The upcoming Dzire is also expected to make its way to India by the upcoming festive season.
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Verdict
The popularity of CNG cars in India remains strong due to their environmental and budget-friendly advantages over petrol and diesel counterparts. Brands like Hyundai and Tata are innovating with dual-cylinder and iCNG technologies, anticipating increased demand. Maruti Suzuki's strategy to introduce CNG variants like the Swift and Dzire reflects market responsiveness and consumer preference.