The entry-level SUV segment in India has been revamped with the introduction of CNG powertrains across nearly all models. Hyundai has recently added CNG technology to its smallest SUV, the Exter. The Korean automaker launched the Exter Hy-CNG Duo earlier this week, priced from ₹8.50 lakh to ₹9.38 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a competitor in the CNG SUV market alongside the Tata Punch and Maruti Suzuki Fronx. Here’s a breakdown of how these three CNG SUVs compare in terms of mileage.
Hyundai Exter CNG: Engine and Mileage
Hyundai’s Exter now features dual-cylinder technology, a first for the brand’s CNG models, which previously used single cylinders. The SUV is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine across all variants, paired with either a manual or automatic gearbox. The CNG variant of the Exter uses a bi-fuel engine with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering 68 bhp and 95 Nm of peak torque—less than the 82 bhp and 113 Nm offered by the petrol-only versions.
Maruti Fronx CNG: Engine and Mileage
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx offers two engine options, with the CNG version equipped with a 1.2-litre petrol engine. This variant comes with a five-speed manual transmission, as the automatic is not available for the CNG model. The Fronx CNG produces 76 bhp and 98 Nm of torque, making it more powerful than the Exter. It boasts an ARAI-certified mileage of 28.51 km/kg, surpassing the Exter’s efficiency. The petrol-only Fronx provides 21.79 kmpl with the manual and 22.89 kmpl with the automatic transmission.
Tata Punch CNG: Engine and Mileage
The Tata Punch, currently a top seller in India, features a 1.2-litre petrol engine with both manual and automatic transmission options. It includes dual-cylinder technology, similar to that first seen in the Altroz hatchback. The Punch CNG, available only with a manual gearbox, delivers 72 bhp and 103 Nm of peak torque, outperforming the Exter CNG in power. However, it has the lowest mileage among the three, with an ARAI-certified figure of 26.9 km/kg. The petrol-only versions of the Punch achieve between 19 kmpl and 20 kmpl, depending on the transmission.
In summary, while the Hyundai Exter CNG and Maruti Fronx CNG offer better fuel efficiency compared to the Tata Punch CNG, each model brings different strengths to the table in the CNG SUV market.
