Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG is India's Most Fuel-Saving Car

Rising Demand for Affordable, High-Mileage Vehicles in India

In India's competitive automotive market, a significant portion of buyers prioritize vehicles that offer both budget-friendly prices and impressive fuel efficiency. This trend has led to a surge in popularity for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered cars, known for their lower running costs compared to petrol or diesel counterparts. Reports indicate that specific models are consistently being recognized for their exceptional mileage, with one car, the Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG, standing out for its claimed 34.43 km/kg efficiency. This puts it at the forefront of fuel-efficient hatchbacks available to consumers.

CNG Car Landscape in India

The market for CNG vehicles in India has expanded considerably, with various manufacturers offering models that cater to the demand for economical transportation. Data from market surveys, sales figures, and user feedback provide a consistent picture of this evolving segment.

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• Key Players: Several manufacturers, including Maruti Suzuki, Tata, and Hyundai, offer prominent CNG models.

• Popular Models: Within the CNG segment, models like the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 CNG, Maruti Suzuki S-Presso CNG, Maruti Suzuki Wagon R CNG, and Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG are frequently cited for their affordability and fuel efficiency.

• Emerging Competitors: Newer models, such as the Hyundai Exter CNG, are also entering the market, blending SUV-inspired aesthetics with CNG powertrains.

Evidence of Fuel Efficiency and Affordability

Multiple sources corroborate the Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG's position as a leading fuel-efficient option.

• The Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG is reported to offer a claimed mileage of approximately 34.43 km/kg in CNG mode, positioning it as one of the most fuel-efficient hatchbacks available.

• Other strong contenders in terms of mileage include the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R CNG (around 34 km/kg) and the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 CNG (around 33.85 km/kg).

• In terms of affordability, the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 CNG is frequently mentioned as India's cheapest CNG car, with prices starting around ₹5.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Analysis of Top CNG Models

The following table provides a comparative overview of some of the most discussed and popular CNG models in India, based on the provided data:

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Factors Driving CNG Car Popularity

The growing preference for CNG cars in India can be attributed to several key factors that resonate with the needs of the average buyer.

• Economic Viability: CNG is generally less expensive than petrol or diesel, leading to lower running costs for daily commutes and long journeys. This directly translates to savings for vehicle owners.

• Environmental Considerations: While not always the primary driver, CNG vehicles typically produce lower emissions compared to their internal combustion engine counterparts, aligning with increasing environmental awareness.

• Government Initiatives: Policies and incentives aimed at promoting cleaner fuels and reducing reliance on fossil fuels can indirectly support the growth of the CNG vehicle market.

• Increasing Infrastructure: The expanding network of CNG refueling stations across the country makes owning and operating a CNG car more convenient than in the past.

Expert Commentary

Industry observers note that the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, particularly CNG models, is a well-established trend in India. The Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG's prominent mileage figures place it in a strong competitive position. However, the "cheapest" label is frequently associated with the Alto K10 CNG, suggesting different market positioning strategies for these similarly efficient models. The entry of new models like the Hyundai Exter CNG indicates a diversification of offerings within the CNG segment, catering to varied aesthetic preferences and feature requirements.

Conclusion and Implications

The data clearly indicates a strong market presence and consumer demand for fuel-efficient CNG vehicles in India. The Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG has established itself as a top performer in terms of mileage, closely followed by other established Maruti Suzuki models. The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 CNG continues to hold its ground as a leading contender for the most affordable CNG option. The ongoing expansion of the CNG market suggests that manufacturers will likely continue to invest in developing and refining their CNG offerings to meet consumer expectations for economy and efficiency. Further investigation could explore long-term maintenance costs and the evolving availability of CNG infrastructure in various regions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the total cost of ownership for these vehicles.

Read More: Top Fuel-Saving CNG Cars in India

Sources:

• Zeenews.india.com - Article discussing the Maruti Suzuki Celerio CNG's mileage and its place in the Indian market.

• 1Tak.com - A list of affordable CNG cars for 2025, detailing price, mileage, and features.

• CarDekho.com - A news article featuring a list of the top 10 cheapest CNG cars available in India.

• CarWale.com - A comprehensive listing of CNG cars in India, updated as of February 2026.

• CarBima.in - An article focusing on India's cheapest CNG cars and their mileage figures.

• IndiaCarNews.com - A compilation of top CNG cars in India for 2025, including prices, mileage, and specifications.

• AutomobilIndia.com - A detailed list of the top 10 CNG cars in India for 2025, with price and mileage information.