CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) cars are gaining traction among private buyers in India due to their increasing features and less compromised performance. In 2023, we can expect several new CNG car models to enter the market, including offerings from well-known brands like Maruti, Tata, and Toyota. Let's examine these future CNG cars in more detail including their features and expected effects on the Indian auto industry.
1. Kia Sonet CNG
Kia, known for its stylish and feature-rich vehicles, is also considering a CNG option for the Sonet, its popular subcompact SUV. In April 2022, a test mule of the Sonet CNG was spotted, featuring a separate filler cap and a CNG sticker on the rear windshield. This indicates that Kia is actively working on a CNG variant of the Sonet which makes it a first for the Indian market. While specific details are limited, it's expected that the CNG version will offer slightly reduced performance compared to the regular turbo-petrol variants. The Sonet already boasts an impressive array of powertrains, including a manual-only 1.2-liter petrol unit, a 120PS 1-liter turbo-petrol with iMT and DCT automatic options, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with manual and torque converter automatic transmissions. With the introduction of the CNG option, Kia aims to provide a more eco-friendly choice in the subcompact SUV segment and cater to customers seeking reduced emissions without compromising style and features. The CNG variants are expected to be priced at a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over the corresponding non-CNG variants.
2. Kia Carens CNG
Kia Carens, the brand's versatile MPV, might also join the CNG lineup. Similar to the Sonet, a test mule of the Kia Carens was spotted with a CNG tank in the boot and a separate filling cap beside the fuel lid. The test model featured a 1.4-liter turbo-petrol engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox suggesting that the CNG option might be offered with the turbo-petrol powertrain. Kia currently offers the Carens in a price range of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 18 lakh. The CNG variants are expected to come at a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over the regular petrol versions. By releasing CNG variants of the Carens Kia hopes to promote environmentally friendly mobility solutions and give customers more options for their MPV needs. The CNG option is likely to appeal to families and businesses looking for a spacious and efficient MPV.
3. Hyundai Alcazar CNG
The Hyundai Alcazar, known for its versatility and style, may soon introduce a CNG variant to its lineup. Similar to other models in the CNG range, the Alcazar is expected to come with a dedicated CNG tank in the rear and a separate fuel cap designed for CNG refills. This forthcoming model is likely to feature a 2.0-liter petrol engine, offering a seamless driving experience with a CNG option. Expected to be paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, the Alcazar CNG could provide an efficient and eco-friendly driving choice.
With its existing pricing range of Rs 13 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, the Alcazar CNG is projected to be priced slightly higher, approximately Rs 1 lakh more than its petrol counterparts. Hyundai's intention to introduce the Alcazar CNG is consistent with its mission to offer mobility options that are more ecologically conscious, with this change, the company hopes to lessen its carbon footprint and satisfy the needs of families and individuals looking for a roomy, environmentally responsible SUV alternative.
4. Toyota Vitz CNG
Toyota, a renowned name in the automotive industry is exploring the possibility of introducing a CNG option for its popular hatchback, the Toyota Vitz. While specific details are limited, the presence of a test mule with a separate CNG filler cap suggests that Toyota is actively working on a CNG variant of the Vitz. The CNG version of the Vitz is expected to offer a more eco-friendly choice in the compact hatchback segment, making it a first for the Indian market. While it may deliver slightly reduced performance compared to the regular petrol variants, it aims to cater to customers seeking a greener alternative without compromising on style and features.
The Toyota Vitz already comes with a range of powertrains, including manual-only 1.2-liter petrol units, a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol engine with iMT and DCT automatic options, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with manual and torque converter automatic transmissions, with the introduction of the CNG option, Toyota hopes to provide more choices for environmentally-conscious consumers. The CNG variants of the Toyota Vitz are anticipated to be priced at a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over their non-CNG counterparts, expanding the availability of CNG options in the compact hatchback category and this move aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency in the Indian auto market, offering a more sustainable choice for a wider audience.
5. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder CNG
Toyota, a well-known carmaker recognized for its dedication to sustainability is about to release a compressed natural gas (CNG) version of its well-liked small SUV the Urban Cruiser. This creative action is a component of Toyota's endeavor to provide more environmentally friendly mobility options.
Similar to its Maruti-sourced counterparts, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder CNG is expected to incorporate a 1.5-liter petrol mild-hybrid powertrain. This engine, already utilized in the XL6, boasts a manual transmission that complements the CNG technology effectively. By integrating CNG into their offerings Toyota aims to provide a cost-effective alternative for consumers in the compact SUV market who are environmentally conscious.
While specific details about the CNG version are somewhat limited, it's anticipated that it may offer slightly reduced performance compared to the regular turbo-petrol variants. The Urban Cruiser already impresses with a range of powertrains, including a manual-only 1.5-liter petrol unit, a 120PS 1-liter turbo-petrol with iMT and DCT automatic options, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with manual and torque converter automatic transmissions. With the introduction of the CNG option, Toyota aims to present a greener choice in the compact SUV segment catering to customers who value reduced emissions while still enjoying style and features. The CNG variants are projected to have a price premium of approximately Rs 1 lakh over their non-CNG counterparts.
6. Hyundai Creta CNG
Hyundai, a well-known player in the automotive industry, is considering adding a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) variant to its popular compact SUV, the Creta and this move mirrors the brand's commitment to offering eco-friendly mobility solutions in line with the growing environmental consciousness. While specific details are currently limited, it's anticipated that the Hyundai Creta CNG might offer slightly reduced performance compared to its conventional petrol or diesel counterparts. However, this potential trade-off in power is offset by the significant environmental benefits that come with using CNG as a fuel source.
The Hyundai Creta has built a solid reputation for fusing comfort, a feature-rich cabin, and an attractive exterior. As the demand for eco-friendly cars continues to grow the introduction of the Hyundai Creta CNG is a strategic move to appeal to a broader audience because of this it is a desirable option for people and families who want to lessen their carbon footprint and protect the environment without sacrificing features or beauty.
While the pricing details for the CNG variants are yet to be confirmed, it's expected that they will come at a premium over the regular petrol or diesel models. This premium reflects the additional environmental benefits and technology integrated into the CNG version.
7. Maruti Solio CNG
The popular automaker Maruti is thinking of launching a compressed natural gas (CNG) version of its adaptable multipurpose vehicle the Solio and the discovery of a CNG test model for the Solio illustrates the brand's dedication to giving environmentally conscientious customers an economical and sustainable option. While specific performance and pricing details for the Maruti Solio CNG are yet to be unveiled, it is expected that this variant might offer slightly reduced performance compared to its traditional petrol or diesel counterparts. However, this trade-off in power is balanced by the substantial environmental benefits that come with CNG fuel. This action is in response to the increasing demand from consumers for more spacious, environmentally friendly MPVs that meet environmental standards. Solio's reputation for spaciousness and practicality combined with the eco-friendly CNG option is expected to appeal to families and businesses seeking a greener and efficient MPV.
All these upcoming CNG-equipped models are expected to make their debut in 2023, expanding the availability of CNG options beyond small cars. While CNG cars are often associated with compact and budget-friendly models, the introduction of CNG variants in these diverse and popular vehicles demonstrates that eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency are no longer confined to a specific vehicle segment. With a range of models from different manufacturers, Indian customers now have more choices for reducing their carbon footprint while enjoying the benefits of CNG technology and these CNG cars are a desirable choice for people and companies who care about the environment because they strive to offer economical and ecologically friendly transportation solutions to a wider audience.