Most Fuel-Efficient CNG Cars On Sale In India!

Long gone is the time when cars running on compressed natural gas (CNG) were perceived as an option mostly for fleet operators. Today, cars across body styles and segments are available with a CNG option, bearing in mind the benefits of higher efficiency, lower emissions and lower running costs. Moreover, several carmakers now also offer a factory-fitted CNG kit on higher-spec trims, which means buyers can finally opt for a fully-loaded, CNG-powered car. In this list, we take a look at the cars and SUVs that have secured the highest fuel efficiency figures, as tested by Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

Please note that real-world efficiency figures are likely to be notably lower, as these figures have been obtained in controlled test conditions.

10. Maruti Suzuki Victoris CNG – 27.02 km per kg

Next on this list is the latest offering from Maruti Suzuki – the Victoris SUV. Positioned as the new flagship model for its Arena retail chain, the Victoris rivals the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra, and despite being the biggest CNG-powered car on this list, has an impressively high ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure of 27.02 km per kg. What’s also noteworthy is the Victoris has an underbody CNG tank, to help free up boot space.

Also Read: Most Affordable SUVs With Company-Fitted CNG Kits

9. Hyundai Exter – 27.1 km per kg

The only Hyundai model to feature on this list is the company’s most affordable SUV – the Exter. Just like its direct rival, the Tata Punch, the Exter CNG, too, has a dual-cylinder layout (dubbed HyCNG Duo) to maximise boot space. Its ARAI-certified efficiency figure is marginally higher than the Punch’s, at 27.1 km per kg.

8. Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG – 28.51 km per kg

Not only has Maruti’s attempt at transforming the Baleno into a crossover paid dividends, it has also led to the birth of one of India’s most fuel-efficient CNG models. The Fronx, which continues to witness strong demand across the country since its launch in 2023, is also available with a factory-fit CNG kit, just like the car it’s based on. When using CNG, the Fronx will return up to 28.51 km per kg, as per ARAI testing.

7. Maruti Suzuki Baleno / Toyota Glanza – 30.61 km per kg

A little further ahead of the wildly popular Fronx is the illustrious Baleno. Having established itself as the premium hatchback of choice over the years, the Baleno now offers real frugality with the CNG option. The bi-fuel model has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure of 30.61 km per kg, and for those who want the same efficiency with a different badge, they can opt for the Baleno’s twin, the Toyota Glanza, which is priced at a slight premium.

6. Maruti Suzuki S-Presso – 32.73 km per kg

It may not be a sales success like other Maruti Suzuki models, but one thing the S-Presso is, is incredibly efficient, especially when powered by CNG. Being one of the carmaker’s smallest (and lightest) cars, the S-Presso is anyway bound to be frugal, but when paired with CNG, the S-Presso has a certified fuel efficiency figure of 32.73 km per kg, which makes it an ideal choice for fleet operators.

Also Read: Best Chauffeur Driven Cars Under Rs 20 Lakh

5. Maruti Suzuki Swift – 32.85 km per kg

Over the years, the Maruti Suzuki Swift has evolved to blend fun with practicality, and the latest generation of the Swift takes this blend to a new level. Armed with the factory-fitted CNG kit, the Swift CNG delivers up to 32.85 km per kg, putting it in the list of the top five most fuel efficient CNG cars in India.

4. Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 – 33.40 km per kg

Long considered the entry point to car ownership in India, the Alto has always been a beacon of accessible, economical motoring. The Alto K10 continues that tradition, and when powered by CNG, it promises to be one of the most efficient cars on sale in India, with a certified economy of 33.40 km per kg.

3. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R – 33.47 km per kg

One of the most easily recognisable silhouettes on Indian roads is that of the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R. Tall, roomy and efficient are three strengths the Wagon R has typified for decades. The current-gen Wagon R, which is a big hit with fleet operators and ride-hailing apps, has a certified fuel efficiency figure of 33.47 km per kg.

2. Maruti Suzuki Dzire – 33.73 km per kg

In second place is India’s highest-selling sedan – the Maruti Suzuki Dzire. The latest-generation of Maruti’s most affordable three-box car is packing the highly efficient Z-series petrol engine, which, when sipping on CNG, can deliver a mileage of up to 33.73 km per kg, as per ARAI testing, a figure unmatched by even some notably smaller cars.

1. Maruti Suzuki Celerio – 34.43 km per kg

In first is, surprise surprise, another Maruti hatchback, but one that isn’t as in-demand as some of the other hatches on this list. The present-day Maruti Suzuki Celerio has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure of 34.43 km per kg, which makes it, by far and away, the most fuel-efficient CNG car on sale in India.