With fuel prices climbing and a growing focus on eco-friendly driving, CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) SUVs are becoming a smart choice for Indian buyers. They’re budget-friendly to run, kinder to the environment, and now come with factory-fitted CNG kits for better reliability. In 2025, the Indian market offers several affordable SUVs with CNG options, blending practicality, style, and savings. This article dives into the top five factory-fitted CNG SUVs that won’t break the bank, perfect for families, daily commuters, or anyone looking to cut fuel costs. We’ll explore their features, performance, and why they stand out, to help you decide which one fits your needs. Let’s get rolling-
Why Choose a Factory-Fitted CNG SUV?
CNG SUVs are a fantastic option for anyone wanting to save money on fuel while keeping things green. Unlike petrol or diesel, CNG costs less per kilometer, often saving you 30-40% on running costs. Factory-fitted kits are a big plus—they’re installed by the manufacturer, ensuring safety, durability, and seamless performance. These SUVs don’t skimp on space or style either, offering roomy interiors and modern looks for families or city drivers. Sure, CNG means slightly less power compared to petrol, but the trade-off is worth it for daily commutes or long drives. Plus, with CNG stations popping up across India, refueling is easier than ever. Choosing a factory-fitted CNG SUV means you get affordability, reliability, and a cleaner ride all in one package.
1. Hyundai Exter CNG
The Hyundai Exter CNG is a pocket-friendly gem, topping our list as the most affordable CNG SUV in India for 2025. Starting at around Rs. 8.43 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s a stylish micro-SUV that’s perfect for city driving and small families. Its modern design, decent features, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a crowd favorite.
Features and Design
The Exter CNG sports a bold, boxy look with sleek projector headlamps and a funky grille. Inside, you get a comfy cabin with an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and steering-mounted controls. Safety is solid with six airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. The CNG variants (S and SX) keep the essentials, though you might miss a sunroof on lower trims. It’s practical, with enough legroom and a decent boot despite the CNG tank.
Performance and Mileage
Powered by a 1.2-liter petrol-CNG engine, the Exter delivers 69 hp and 95 Nm in CNG mode, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It’s not a speed demon but handles city traffic and highways smoothly. The star is its mileage—27.1 km/kg, making it a wallet-friendly choice for daily commutes or weekend getaways.
Why It Stands Out
The Exter CNG shines for its low price, chic design, and Hyundai’s trusted reliability. It’s ideal for young buyers or small families who want a feature-packed SUV without spending big. The high mileage and safety features make it a practical, worry-free pick.
2. Tata Punch CNG
The Tata Punch CNG is a rugged, budget-friendly micro-SUV that’s hard to beat. Priced from Rs. 7.23 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s one of the cheapest CNG SUVs in India. Its tough build, unique tech, and decent space make it a hit for urban adventurers and cost-conscious buyers.
Features and Design
The Punch CNG looks bold with its high stance, sculpted hood, and projector headlamps. The cabin feels premium with a 7-inch touchscreen, semi-digital driver display, and push-button start. Tata’s twin-cylinder tech keeps the boot usable at 210 liters, a big win for CNG SUVs. Safety includes dual airbags, ABS, and a rearview camera, though top trims add more flair.
Performance and Mileage
A 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine powers the Punch, producing 73.5 hp and 103 Nm in CNG mode with a 5-speed manual. It’s peppy enough for city drives and handles light off-road bumps well. With a claimed 26.99 km/kg mileage, it’s a fuel-sipper, perfect for keeping costs low on long trips or daily runs.
Why It Stands Out
The Punch CNG stands out for its affordability, rugged charm, and Tata’s innovative twin-cylinder setup. It’s a great pick for those who want a tough, compact SUV with decent features and low running costs, all backed by Tata’s strong service network.
3. Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG, starting at Rs. 8.46 lakh (ex-showroom), is a stylish subcompact SUV with a coupe-like vibe. Known for its fuel efficiency and Maruti’s unbeatable service reach, it’s a top choice for buyers who want flair and savings.
Features and Design
The Fronx CNG has a sleek, sporty design with sharp LED headlamps and a sloping roofline. The interior is modern, offering a 7-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and automatic climate control. Safety features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and hill-hold assist. The CNG tank eats into boot space, but the cabin remains roomy for five.
Performance and Mileage
Equipped with a 1.2-liter petrol-CNG engine, the Fronx produces 76.4 hp and 98.5 Nm in CNG mode, mated to a 5-speed manual. It’s smooth for city and highway driving, though not built for speed. Its 28.51 km/kg mileage is among the best, making it a champ for long-distance commuters.
Why It Stands Out
The Fronx CNG combines trendy looks, top-notch mileage, and Maruti’s reliability. It’s perfect for young drivers or families who want a stylish SUV with low fuel costs and easy maintenance, thanks to Maruti’s vast service network.
4. Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG
The Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG, priced from Rs. 9.29 lakh (ex-showroom), is a bestseller in the subcompact SUV segment. Its spacious cabin, feature-rich trims, and trusted brand name make it a go-to for families and urban drivers alike.
Features and Design
The Brezza CNG boasts a muscular look with bold chrome accents and LED headlamps. Inside, you get a 7-inch touchscreen, cruise control, and a sunroof on higher trims. Safety is decent with six airbags, ABS, and a rearview camera. The CNG variants (LXi, VXi, ZXi) offer flexibility, though boot space takes a hit due to the tank.
Performance and Mileage
Powered by a 1.5-liter K15C engine, the Brezza delivers 88 hp and 121.5 Nm in CNG mode with a 5-speed manual. It’s smooth and handles well, even with a slight power drop. The 25.51 km/kg mileage is solid, making it great for city commutes and occasional road trips.
Why It Stands Out
The Brezza CNG is a practical choice with its roomy interior, strong features, and Maruti’s service backup. It’s ideal for families wanting a reliable, feature-packed SUV that keeps fuel bills in check.
5. Tata Nexon CNG
The Tata Nexon CNG, starting at Rs. 8.90 lakh (ex-showroom), is a bold, powerful option in the compact SUV space. With a unique turbo-CNG engine and premium features, it’s perfect for those who want style and efficiency without compromise.
Features and Design
The Nexon CNG looks sharp with its sleek LED headlamps and rugged stance. The cabin is upscale, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, and a digital cluster. Safety is top-notch with six airbags, ESC, and a 360-degree camera. The twin-cylinder tech ensures decent boot space, making it practical for trips.
Performance and Mileage
The Nexon’s 1.2-liter turbo-CNG engine is a game-changer, pumping out 100 hp and 170 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual. It’s the most powerful CNG SUV here, offering zippy performance. The 24 km/kg mileage is slightly lower but still economical for a turbocharged setup.
Why It Stands Out
The Nexon CNG excels with its turbo power, premium features, and robust safety. It’s ideal for buyers who want a fun-to-drive SUV with great looks, modern tech, and reasonable running costs.
Things to Consider Before Buying a CNG SUV
Before picking a CNG SUV, think about your needs. CNG stations are common in cities but may be sparse in rural areas, so check availability. Boot space often shrinks due to the CNG tank, which might be an issue for frequent travelers. Maintenance is generally low, but CNG kits need periodic checks. Also, CNG SUVs have less power than petrol or diesel versions, so if you love speed, you might notice the difference. Compare mileage, features, and service networks to find the best fit. Test drives are a must to ensure the SUV feels right for you.
The Future of CNG SUVs in India
CNG SUVs are gaining traction as fuel prices rise and environmental concerns grow. Automakers like Maruti, Tata, and Hyundai are expanding their CNG lineups, with rumors of automatic CNG options and more models in 2025. Government incentives, like reduced taxes for CNG vehicles, could make them even more appealing. As EV infrastructure develops slowly, CNG remains a practical, eco-friendly choice for now. Expect more stylish, feature-packed CNG SUVs to hit the market, giving buyers plenty of options.
Conclusion
The top five affordable factory-fitted CNG SUVs in India—Hyundai Exter, Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Tata Nexon—offer a blend of savings, style, and reliability. Whether you’re a city commuter, a small family, or an adventure seeker, there’s a CNG SUV for you. With excellent mileage, modern features, and trusted brands, these vehicles make fuel-efficient driving accessible without sacrificing comfort. Pick one that matches your budget and lifestyle, and enjoy the ride while keeping your wallet and the planet happy.
