Maruti Suzuki Alto S-CNG Gets A BS6 Badge And Returns A Claimed 31.59km/kg

• CNG options will be available in the LXi and LXi (O) trim levels.
• The LXi (O) CNG now costs Rs 4.36 lakh.
• Prices are up by just over Rs 27,000 for each variant.
• Maruti has already sold 1 lakh BS6 Alto hatchbacks in India.

Maruti Suzuki has launched BS6-compliant S-CNG variants of the popular Alto hatchback in India. The LXi and LXi (O) CNG variants are priced at Rs 4.33 lakh and Rs 4.36 lakh respectively  -- a hike of Rs 27,000 over the BS4 variants. BS6 updates were first introduced in the Alto in April 2019 when it received a facelift. 

The S-CNG variants feature co-dependent electronic control units (ECUs) and automatic fuel changeover switches to make the dual-fuel cars easy to operate. Power figures in CNG mode are expected to be 41PS and 69Nm. When running on petrol, the engine will churn out 48PS and 69Nm. Power and torque figures could change after the BS6 update. 

*All prices are ex-showroom Delhi

The mid-spec LXi and LXi (O) variants get full wheel covers, front power windows, and air conditioning. However, on the safety front, the LXi gets only a standard driver’s side airbag. The LXi (O) variant is only Rs 3,600 pricier but adds a passenger-side airbag. 

Explaining how the BS6 CNG model will help India become less dependent on oil reserves, Maruti said, “The launch of Maruti Suzuki’s S-CNG vehicle range is aligned to and complements the Government of India’s vision of reducing oil import and enhancing the share of natural gas in the energy basket of the country from 6.2 per cent now to 15 per cent by 2030.” 

Maruti Suzuki was narrowly beaten in the race to BS6 by Hyundai, which launched the Aura CNG on January 21. The CNG variants will continue to provide an affordable and reliable alternative to Indians looking to reduce their car’s running costs.