Maruti Suzuki Teases New CNG Cars: Swift, Brezza And Fronx?
The demand for CNG cars has been going up strongly due to the rising fuel costs. So, to bank on this growing demand, Maruti Suzuki is gearing up for the launch of not one, but three new CNG models. Recently, the company released a new teaser which gives us a hint about two of the three models coming out. It shows a Fronx and a Brezza driving through the desert with CNG stickers on the rear windshield. This gives us a hint that these models are just around the corner.
Maruti Suzuki’s current CNG portfolio already has an extensive range. Its cars include the Alto, S-Presso, Celerio, Wagon R, Dzire, Ertiga, Baleno, Brezza, Fronx, XL6, and Grand Vitara. Now, the company is gearing up to launch the CNG options for the Brezza and Fronx. Additionally, the company will soon be launching the CNG version of its most popular hatchback, Swift fourth generation, as well.
Brezza and Fronx CNG
The teaser video of the upcoming Brezza and Fronx CNG has been shared on the brand’s social media platforms. In this short clip, a Fronx crossover and a Brezza sub-compact SUV are seen drifting through the desert with a number of objects shaking. The main highlight of this teaser is that it clearly shows two CNG stickers on the rear windshield. This confirms that the two cars will soon be offered with company-fitted CNG kits.
In addition to this, according to reports, the company is going to offer two new things to set these vehicles apart. The first is that it could be offering both models an automatic transmission for CNG variants. Additionally, it could be offering these cars with twin-cylinder CNG technology to optimize boot space.
Dual Tank CNG Technology
As we all are aware, one of the major complaints about CNG cars has been the significant reduction in boot space. This happens due to the large CNG tanks taking up most of the space. However, to address this issue, Tata Motors introduced a clever solution with a dual-tank setup. This setup, called the iCNG technology, was initially seen in models like the Altroz. And it now comes available in the Tiago, Tigor, and Punch.
This setup uses two smaller 30-litre tanks instead of one large tank. Due to this, it frees up a lot of valuable boot space. Now speculations are that Maruti Suzuki is following Tata’s footsteps. Many experts believe that the company will be offering this new twin-cylinder technology with the upcoming Fronx, Brezza, and even the Swift CNG.
Does Maruti offer a similar setup?
Currently, Maruti uses a similar dual-tank system in its Super Carry LCV. In this pickup vehicle, two 35-litre tanks are arranged parallel to each other along the vehicle’s length. This means that the company is no stranger to twin-cylinder technology and can most likely offer it with the upcoming cars.
Maruti Suzuki Swift CNG
In addition to the Brezza and Fronx, Maruti Suzuki, as mentioned, will also be seen launching the CNG variant of the newly introduced fourth-generation Swift. Presently, the exact launch date for the Swift, in addition to the Fronx and Brezza, is currently unknown.
However, many buyers are waiting for the launches of these cars. The 2024 Swift CNG will feature Maruti’s all-new Z12E engine, a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine. This Swift CNG is expected to offer an impressive mileage of 32 km/kg, making it a highly efficient option for consumers.
The Swift CNG will likely be available with a 5-speed manual transmission, similar to its predecessors. Pricing is expected to see a marginal increase of around Rs 90,000 to 95,000 over the corresponding petrol variants. And once launched, it will be competing against models like the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Tata Tiago, both of which offer CNG options.