Maruti Brezza CNG launch in India: What to expect

After launching the Baleno and XL6 in CNG variants, Maruti Suzuki is preparing to expand its CNG lineup to SUVs as well. In addition to the Grand Vitara, Maruti will also introduce CNG technology in the Brezza SUV. The latest generation of the compact SUV Brezza CNG will become the first in its class to offer a CNG version alongside the standard models powered by the regular petrol engine. A rival to the likes of Tata Nexon and Hyundai Venue among others, the new generation Brezza launched earlier this year with a starting price of Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

According to the leaked information received so far, Maruti Suzuki will offer the CNG powertrain in all currently available Brezza variants, which is a first among all CNG cars currently sold in India. This includes the LXi, VXi, ZXi and ZXi+ variants of the new generation Brezza. Maruti can also offer CNG with automatic transmission variants, a first of its kind.

As far as design is concerned, the Brezza CNG won't change anything drastically. The only major change will be in the trunk where the CNG kit will be located, reducing the SUV's luggage space. It will continue to be powered by the new 1.5-litre K-class petrol engine that produces around 100hp of peak power and 136Nm of peak torque. In CNG mode, performance output is expected to be slightly less than that. However, fuel efficiency is expected to improve relative to mileage in petrol mode. The Brezza CNG can return with around 30 km per kg efficiency.

Details about the CNG range will only be known when Maruti Suzuki officially launches the SUV in the coming days. You would expect a similarly sized CNG kit used in the Ertiga or XL6 with around 60 litres.

Expect the price of the CNG variants of the Maruti Brezza to start from just under Rs 9 lakh. It is expected to be the most affordable CNG SUV on the market when it launches. It is unlikely that it will have direct competitors in its class yet. However, it will not be the first SUV in India to get CNG versions. Toyota has already announced the launch of the CNG-powered Urban Cruiser HyRyer package, which will soon be joined by its technical cousin Maruti Grand Vitara SUV.

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