2026 Tata Punch CNG vs Nissan Magnite CNG: Best Pick?

Tata Punch facelift CNG and Nissan Magnite CNG dominate the CNG cars under 8 lakh segment, each targeting budget-savvy buyers craving SUV style and fuel savings. This point-by-point breakdown spotlights every key area—from power to pixels—so you can pick your winner in the Punch vs Magnite CNG battle. Let's dive straight in.​

Price and Variants Breakdown

Pricing sets the stage in Tata Punch vs Nissan Magnite, with both offering accessible entry points.

• Tata Punch CNG: Starts at Rs 6.69 lakh (Smart MT ex-showroom); top Accomplished CNG at Rs 9.99 lakh. Six variants total, including AMT from Pure+ (Rs 8.54 lakh).​
  
  
• Nissan Magnite CNG: Kicks off at Rs 6.34 lakh (Visia MT); AMT from Rs 6.89 lakh up to Rs 9.70 lakh (XV Premium Opt). Retrofit kit adds Rs 71,999 post-GST cut.​

Edge: Nissan wins affordability, especially early AMT access. However, Tata bundles more standard kit lower down.

Engine and Performance Specs

Power delivery matters for city crawls and highway merges in Punch vs Magnite CNG.

• Tata Punch CNG: 1.2L Revotron, 73.4 PS power, 103 Nm torque (CNG mode). 5-speed MT/AMT. 0-100 kmph ~15s; 26.99 km/kg ARAI mileage. Twin-cylinder setup frees boot space.​
• Nissan Magnite CNG: 1.0L NA, 72 PS power, 96 Nm torque. 5-speed MT/AMT. 24-30 km/kg ARAI (city-highway est.). Lighter kerb aids peppiness.​
  
  

Edge: Tata's torquier motor pulls stronger uphill. Meanwhile, Magnite's efficiency shines on open roads.

Dimensions and Practicality

Size and stance define daily usability in these compact SUVs.

Edge: Magnite stretches longer with superior clearance for rough patches. On the other hand, Punch packs more boot room post-CNG install.​

Design and Exteriors

Curb appeal hooks buyers in the 2026 facelift era.

• Tata Punch CNG: Boxy refresh with LED headlights, DRLs, new alloys, LED tail lamps. New shades like Cyantafic. Auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers on mid-trims.​
• Nissan Magnite CNG: Bold grille, split LEDs, floating roof. Dual-fuel lid integration—no hood pops for CNG. Sunroof from mid-variants.
  
  

Edge: Punch looks Punch.ev-modern; Magnite feels premium-urban with cleaner CNG access.

Interior Tech & Features

Both brands have loaded their cars to appeal to the tech-savvy Indian buyer.

Tata Punch Facelift 2026 The update has significantly upgraded the cabin experience.

• Infotainment: A crisp 10.25-inch Touchscreen takes center stage, supporting Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
• Driver Display: A Digital Instrument Cluster provides detailed info, including navigation prompts.
• Comfort: Features like a Voice-Assisted Electric Sunroof, Wireless Charger, and Ventilated Seats (in top trims) bring it close to the premium hatchback segment.

Nissan Magnite The Magnite is known for maximizing interior space.

• Space: It feels incredibly airy inside, with excellent shoulder room for rear passengers.
• Tech: It features an 8-inch touchscreen with Wireless connectivity and a 7-inch TFT Advanced Drive-Assist Display that feels like a video game console with its vibrant graphics.
• Convenience: The inclusion of an Air Purifier and Ambient Lighting adds to the feel-good factor.

Features Face-Off

Tech and convenience separate daily drivers.

Edge: Neck-and-neck, but Tata standardizes more safety across lineup.

Safety Arsenal

No compromises here—both prioritize protection.

• Tata Punch CNG: 5-star Global NCAP (adult/child). 6 airbags standard, ESP, hill-hold, ISOFIX, disc brakes all-round (higher trims).[user query]
• Nissan Magnite CNG: 6 airbags (top), ESP, traction control, hill-start. No official NCAP rating yet.
• Edge: Tata's proven crash-test badge seals family trust.

Mileage and Running Costs

Real-world savings fuel the CNG appeal.

• Tata Punch CNG: 22-25 km/kg observed; Rs 2-3/km cheaper vs petrol. Factory warranty: 3yr/1L km.​
• Nissan Magnite CNG: 23-27 km/kg real-world; same cost edge. Retrofit warranty matches, available in 13 states.​
  
  

Edge: Magnite squeezes extra km on highways. Service: Tata's vast network edges urban Nissan hubs.

Ownership Experience

Long-term perks matter for EMI planners.

• Tata Punch CNG: Strong resale (10-15% better), cheaper parts. Wider service net in Tier-2/3 cities.
• Nissan Magnite CNG: Lower kit price post-GST, AMT value. Expanding retrofit states.
  
  

Edge: Tata for resale and reach; Nissan for initial savings.

Quick Verdict by Buyer Type

• City Commute: Magnite CNG AMT—clearance + auto ease.
• Family Safety: Punch CNG—5-stars + space.
• Budget Max: Both shine under 8 lakh, but test drive seals it.

Punch vs Magnite CNG? Tata builds trust; Nissan delivers value. Which feature flips your switch? 

Author: Aakash Mehra

Automotive Journalist & Car Reviewer. Aakash Mehra is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 9 years of experience in car journalism and consumer-focused reviews. Having test-driven more than 550+ vehicles, he delivers detailed comparisons, expert insights, and unbiased advice to help readers confidently choose the right car.