Maruti All Set To Launch Baleno’s CNG Version, With Dzire Specifications! Price Can Be Rs 1 Lakh Extra

The CNG version of the Maruti Baleno will be sold through the brand’s Nexa dealerships.

Maruti, which is the largest manufacturer of factory-fitted CNG cars, could introduce CNG options for more Nexa models in future.

Betting Big On CNG

It has also been exploring the idea of expanding its CNG lineup due to the exorbitant rise in fuel prices in recent months.

It has decided to do away with diesel engines in its cars and is now promoting CNG to consumers who want better fuel efficiency.

CNG also offers reduced operating costs, given that the cost of running a vehicle on it is roughly a third of petrol and diesel vehicles.

With the Baleno, it is unclear which variants will come equipped with a factory-fitted CNG kit.

CNG For Top Variants?

So far, the carmaker has offered CNG in mid-spec variants of all models.

For the Baleno, CNG option is likely to be offered with mid-spec as well as top-spec variants.

It is perhaps following the lead of Tata Motors which started offering CNG options on top variants as well.

The new Baleno gets a significant number of updates in terms of styling as well as features.

Powertrain, Transmission

It is powered by a 1.2-litre K12N Dual-jet naturally aspirated petrol motor producing 89 bhp and 113 Nm of peak torque.

It is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT.

The CNG variant will have slightly lesser engine output, probably the same as the new Dzire CNG.

While the facelift Baleno comes with five-speed manual transmission as standard and automatic gearbox as optional, the CNG variant may lose out on the AMT version.

Cabin Features

Top-spec variants of Baleno CNG are will likely get a long list of features like:

• 9-inch free-standing touchscreen infotainment display
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
• Flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel
• 360-degree camera
• Head-Up Display Unit

Safety

Coming to safety, the new Baleno offers:

• Six airbags
• ESP (electronic stability control)
• Hill-hold assist
• ISOFIX seat mounts
• ABS with EBD
• Speed alert system

Competition, Price, Launch

The Baleno CNG will go head to head against the Tata Altroz CNG which is set to debut later this year.

The cost is expected to be Rs 70,000-90,000 more than its petrol counterparts.

It is likely to arrive by mid-2022.