Maruti Suzuki Swift CNG Hatchback Launched In India At Rs 8.20 Lakh

Updated: Thursday, September 12, 2024, 15:25 [IST]

Maruti Suzuki has unveiled the prices for the new Swift CNG, four months after launching its petrol counterpart. The Swift CNG starts at Rs 8.20 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in three trims: VXi, VXi (O), and ZXi. This marks Maruti's fourteenth CNG-powered vehicle for the Indian market.

Variant	Price (ex-showroom)
VXi	Rs 8.20 lakh
VXi (O)	Rs 8.47 lakh
ZXi	Rs 9.20 lakh

Swift CNG Features and Specifications

The entry-level Swift CNG VXi comes equipped with six airbags, ESC, remote central locking, halogen projector headlamps, 14-inch steel wheels, and power windows. The mid-level VXi (O) variant adds a height-adjustable driver's seat, a 7-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and steering-mounted.

The top-tier ZXi variant introduces a CNG-powered option for the first time. It includes features like LED projector headlamps with DRLs, 15-inch alloy wheels, wireless charging, automatic climate control, and a rear washer wiper. Maruti introduced this high-spec variant due to consumer demand for a well-equipped hatchback with a factory-fitted CNG kit.

Engine and Performance

The new Swift CNG is powered by the Z12E petrol engine modified for CNG use. It delivers an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 32.85 km/kg, which is six percent more efficient than the previous model with the K-series engine. The engine produces 69.75 hp and 101.8 Nm of torque when running on CNG.

The Swift CNG retains a single large cylinder in the boot for its fuel storage, unlike newer models from Hyundai and Tata that use twin-cylinder setups. Emissions have also improved; Maruti claims CO2 levels are down by six percent compared to the older model.

Market Performance and Sales Targets

Maruti Suzuki has been leading in the Indian market with its range of CNG-powered vehicles. Last year, they sold approximately 4.77 lakh CNG cars in India. For April to August 2024 alone, they have already sold 2.21 lakh units of CNG cars and SUVs.

The company aims to sell six lakh CNG passenger cars and SUVs annually. In terms of regional sales performance, Gujarat will be the first state to receive deliveries of the new Swift CNG by this weekend, followed by other states including Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.

The previous generation of Swift saw about 15 percent of its sales coming from its CNG variants. With improved fuel economy and a broader price range, Maruti expects higher demand for the new Swift CNG model.

DriveSpark Thinks

The introduction of these variants aligns with Maruti's strategy to cater to increasing consumer demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles amid rising fuel prices.