Petrolheads Eyeing Frugality Rejoice! Maruti Brezza CNG Bookings Open

UPDATE: Maruti Suzuki has launched the Brezza CNG, with prices starting from Rs 9.14 lakh. 

• Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG bookings open. 
• Could be the first CNG model to get an automatic option.
• To get a 1.5-litre petrol engine developing 88PS in CNG mode.
• Likely to command a premium of Rs 1 lakh over the petrol-only model. 

Some Maruti Suzuki dealers have started accepting bookings for the CNG variants of the Brezza. Those interested can reserve the sub-four-metre CNG SUV for a token amount of Rs 25,000. The Brezza CNG is expected to come in all four trims — LXI, VXI, ZXI and ZXI+ — the subcompact SUV is already offered in. This could change at launch, which is expected to be imminent. 

The bigger news, however, could be the fact that the Brezza CNG is likely to be offered with a six-speed torque converter gearbox, which will be sold alongside a five-speed MT. If that turns out to be the case, the Brezza will be the first CNG-powered car to get an auto ‘box. These transmissions will be paired to the carmaker’s 1.5-litre petrol engine, which will put out 88PS and 121.5Nm in CNG mode. 

Apart from the CNG powertrain’s addition, the Brezza should remain as is. The SUV comes loaded with features such as a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heads-up display, wireless phone charger and cruise control. Safety is taken care of by up to six airbags, electronic stability control and parking sensors. 

The CNG variants of the Brezza are expected to carry a premium of around a lakh rupees over the petrol-only models, that range between Rs 8.19 lakh and Rs 14.04 lakh (ex-showroom). It currently locks horns with the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300 and Nissan Magnite.