Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara CNG —A Complete Overview

Introduction

Hello everyone.. My name is Mintu Kumar, and I am passionate about the automobile world. I love exploring the latest car models, technologies, and innovations that shape the future of mobility. My main focus is on Maruti Suzuki, one of India’s most trusted and popular automobile brands. Through my blogs, I aim to share detailed insights, reviews, and updates about Maruti Suzuki cars to help readers make informed choices.

Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara is one of India’s popular compact/mid-sized SUVs that offers multiple powertrains (petrol, mild/strong hybrid) and a feature-rich package. In response to rising fuel costs and growing demand for more economical, cleaner fuels, Maruti Suzuki reintroduced the Grand Vitara with a factory-fitted CNG option (branded as S-CNG). The CNG version seeks to balance fuel economy, ownership cost, and utility while retaining many of the comforts and features of the standard Grand Vitara.

In this article, we look at what the Grand Vitara CNG is, how it performs, its key specs and features, what it offers well, what compromises it makes, who it is well suited for, and how it stacks up against alternatives.

What is the Grand Vitara CNG (S-CNG)?

“CNG” refers to Compressed Natural Gas — a cleaner, cheaper fuel alternative to petrol/diesel in countries like India. When Maruti Suzuki launched the Grand Vitara S-CNG, it meant that the SUV is factory-fitted with a bi-fuel (petrol + CNG) setup. This allows the vehicle to run on either petrol or CNG, switching between them as needed. The system is designed and integrated by the OEM, which tends to be safer, more reliable, and better regulated compared to aftermarket CNG kits.

The Grand Vitara S-CNG is offered in Delta and Zeta trims. The 2025 version (after a refresh) includes upgraded safety and convenience features. The ex-showroom pricing in Delhi for the updated CNG variants is in the range of ₹ 13.48 lakh for the Delta trim and ₹ 15.62 lakh for the Zeta trim.

Key Specifications

Here are the important technical details for the Grand Vitara CNG version:

Spec	Details
Engine	1.5-litre K-series (Dual Jet, Dual VVT) petrol engine adapted for bi-fuel.
Power (CNG mode)	~ 87–89 horsepower (≈ 88 bhp) and 121.5 Nm torque.
Transmission	5-speed manual only for CNG versions.
Fuel Efficiency (CNG)	Claimed 26.6 km/kg under CNG mode.
Variants Available	Delta MT and Zeta MT.
Safety Features	Six airbags standard in CNG trims (2025 update) plus ESP, Hill Hold Assist, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX seat anchors, front and rear disc brakes.
Features / Kit	Depending on trim: 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, rear view camera, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats (in Zeta), PM2.5 filter/air purifier, tyre pressure monitoring, auto-AC, keyless entry & push start, etc.
Price Price Add-on	CNG variants cost approx ₹ 95,000 more than equivalent petrol trims.

What’s New in the 2025 Update for the Grand Vitara CNG

The 2025 refresh brought some important upgrades to the CNG variant:

• Standardization of six airbags across the CNG trims. Older versions had fewer safety units.
• Addition of tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and PM2.5 filter / display for better cabin air quality.
  
• Zeta trim gets ventilated front seats, wireless charger dock, rear door sunshades.
  
• Other conveniences like improved infotainment and connected features.
  

These updates make the CNG variant more appealing by bringing features closer to those found in non-CNG (petrol/hybrid) Grand Vitara trims.

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Advantages of the Grand Vitara CNG

Here are the strong points — what the Grand Vitara CNG does well, and where it offers real value.

1. Very Good Fuel Economy in CNG Mode
   The claimed 26.6 km per kg (CNG) is among the better numbers for SUVs in its segment. If you drive a lot — especially in city or for mixed commuting — this can lead to substantial fuel savings over time.
   
2. Lower Running Cost
   CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol per unit of km in many Indian states. Though the performance is lower in CNG mode compared to petrol, for many buyers this trade-off is acceptable given the savings. Less cost per refill, and over months/years, this can help offset the higher upfront cost of the CNG variant.
   
3. Safety & Peace of Mind Upgraded
   With six airbags standard, ESP, EBD, multiple disc brakes, ISOFIX, etc., the safety package is solid. For those who often carry family or travel in traffic, this is a big plus. The 2025 update brings more safety features which reduce compromises.
   
4. Good Feature Set
   The CNG version doesn’t feel spartan. With features like ventilated front seats (in the higher trim), wireless charger, rear sunshades, connected car tech, etc., Maruti Suzuki ensures that many modern comforts are retained. That makes the ownership more pleasant.
   
5. Flexible Dual-Fuel Capability
   Because it’s a bi-fuel setup, you get the flexibility of running on petrol when CNG isn’t available, or for highway/faster driving where petrol mode tends to give better performance. This flexibility mitigates one of the main drawbacks of CNG cars, i.e Maruti Suzuki which is infrastructure limitation.
   
6. Value for Money
   For the cost (₹ 13.48–15.62 lakh ex-showroom for the updated trims in Delhi), the Grand Vitara CNG gives a lot of what a regular SUV in this space offers, while bringing in fuel savings, safety, and convenience. Maruti’s vast service network and brand reputation also add to resale / long term ownership value.
   
7. SUVly Practicality
   As an SUV, it has decent road presence, ground clearance, driving position, interior space etc., which many buyers prefer over hatchbacks or smaller sedans. For some, the lifestyle or utility benefits (higher seating, more space) matter a lot.
   

Disadvantages & Trade-Offs: What You Should Know

While the Grand Vitara CNG is strong, there are some compromises. Knowing these will help you decide whether it matches your priorities.

1. Reduced Power & Performance in CNG Mode
   Running on CNG reduces output: ~ 87-89 hp and 121.5 Nm vs the petrol variant’s ~ 103 hp and more torque.That means slower acceleration, less punch on overtakes, especially when the car is fully loaded or climbing. If you prefer brisk driving, the Maruti Suzuki CNG mode may feel underwhelming compared to petrol/hybrid variants.
   
2. Boot Space Compromise
   The CNG tank is substantial and occupies some of the luggage area. The use of a single large CNG tank (versus more compact or dual smaller tanks) means more boot space reduction. If you frequently do long trips or carry lots of luggage, this might matter.
   
3. Manual Transmission Only
   CNG variants are offered only with a 5-speed manual transmission. For buyers who want automatic (especially in city traffic), this is a limitation. Gear shifting and clutch work can make driving less convenient in heavy traffic.
   
4. Higher Upfront Cost Over Petrol
   The CNG versions cost roughly ₹ 95,000 more than the equivalent petrol variants. Payback in terms of fuel savings will depend on your mileage, fuel/ gas prices, and usage patterns. For low usage, it might take several years to recoup the extra cost.

5. CNG Infrastructure Limitations
   Though many cities in India have decent CNG stations, some areas (especially rural or highways) still don’t. On long highway drives, CNG refilling may be inconvenient, and you may switch to petrol which is more expensive per km. Also, availability and condition of CNG pumps vary, which can affect performance or reliability.
   
6. Lower Fuel Efficiency in Some Real-World Conditions
   While the claimed efficiency is good, real-world numbers often drop due to driving style, traffic, climate (air conditioning), load, etc. Owner reports suggest lower mileage than claimed under some conditions. So expect realistic numbers lower than certified ones.
   
7. No Sunroof on Zeta CNG
   One specific omission: the panoramic sunroof is not offered on Zeta trim in the CNG version. This may matter for buyers who expect premium features.
   

Who Is the Grand Vitara CNG Best Suited For?

Based on the strengths and limitations, here’s the profile of a buyer who will get the best value from the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara CNG:

• Someone with high or moderate monthly running in city / suburban usage, so that fuel savings from Maruti Suzuki CNG accumulate and offset the extra cost.
  
• Users who have easy access to Maruti Suzuki CNG fuel stations near their home or daily routes — so refueling is convenient.
  
• Buyers who prioritize safety, ride comfort, features and utility more than outright torque or performance. If you don’t need rapid acceleration but want an SUV that can do everything reasonably.
  
• Budget-minded buyers who want lower ownership cost over time and are okay with manual gearing.
  
• Families who value comfort, space, and practicality, and do occasional highway drives but can rely on petrol mode when required.
  

It might be less ideal if: Maruti Suzuki

• You often drive long highway stretches where CNG stops are rare.
  
• You want an automatic transmission or convenience of zero clutch in traffic.
  
• Performance is a higher priority than fuel cost.
  
• You place high value on boot space or carry large loads frequently.
  

Running Cost & Ownership Math

Let’s roughly estimate how the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara CNG might perform cost-wise compared to petrol.

Factor	CNG Mode	Petrol Mode / Standard Petrol SUV
Fuel cost per unit (CNG vs Petrol)	CNG is significantly cheaper per kg vs petrol per litre. Depending on city, CNG may cost ~ 40-60% of petrol equivalent per km.	Petrol more expensive per km; higher running cost.
Fuel economy	~ 26.6 km/kg claimed. Real-world maybe lower, e.g. 20-25 km/kg depending on load, traffic, etc.	Around ~ 21-22 kmpl or so for petrol manual Grand Vitara (as per ARAI).
Maintenance / service	Factory-fitted CNG usually integrates well, parts better managed, but CNG specific parts (filters, injectors) need servicing. Slightly higher complexity.	Petrol only maintenance, more straightforward.
Resale / depreciation	Maruti’s brand helps, and CNG variants remain attractive where fuel cost matters. However, resale value may be affected by perceived risk (CNG tank health, availability of service, etc.).	Petrol resale is more tried & tested.
Upfront Cost	~ ₹ 95,000 premium over petrol version for same trim. Higher insurance or parts cost possible.	Lower upfront, less complexity. Which is Maruti Suzuki

Over, say, 3-5 years and driving a large number of km monthly, the CNG cost savings can add up to a good amount, possibly recovering the premium. But if usage is low, the extra cost may take long to pay off.

Comparison with Rivals

To see whether the Grand Vitara CNG is a strong choice, it helps to compare it with rivals:

• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder CNG – When it arrives / if already available, the Hyryder’s CNG will compete on many of the same parameters: efficiency, features, drivability. Buyers will compare safety / features / resale.
  
• Other premium SUVs with CNG options – As of 2025, there are fewer premium SUV-CNGs. Grand Vitara is among the relatively few factory- Maruti Suzuki CNG offerings in the compact SUV segment with six airbags standard. That gives it a differentiation.
  
• Petrol / Hybrid variants of Grand Vitara – For someone willing to spend slightly more, hybrid (strong or mild) trims may offer better performance, smoother feeling, possibly lower fuel consumption in mixed/hybrid or highway conditions without relying only on CNG infrastructure. But hybrids cost more.
  
• Other CNG-capable hatchbacks / crossovers – Smaller cars will have less space and fewer features, but may offer better mileage. If your usage is mostly city and you don’t need SUV size, those may be more economical.
  

Verdict

The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara S-CNG can be summed up as a strong middle ground: an SUV that gives you better fuel economy, decent safety, feature-packed trims, and utility while maintaining flexibility via dual-fuel capability. It is especially compelling for buyers who want lower cost of ownership, who do a decent number of city/suburban kilometres, and have access to CNG infrastructure.

It’s less ideal if performance or automatic transmission is a priority, or you frequently do long highway trips where Maruti Suzuki CNG stops are rare. Also, consider boot space trade-offs if you often travel with a lot of luggage.

If I were buying such a car, I’d ask:

• What is the CNG station density and fuel quality in my area / along my frequent routes?
  
• What is the likely resale value and demand in my city for Maruti Suzuki CNG SUVs vs petrol/hybrids?
  
• How often do I drive in traffic vs open roads?
  
• Whether the extra cost upfront and lower performance in Maruti Suzuki CNG is worth the fuel savings for my driving pattern.
  

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