Maruti Baleno CNG 2026 model front view with 30.61 km/kg mileage and price details in India

Maruti Baleno CNG: Shocking 30.61 km/kg Mileage!

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Maruti Baleno CNG: Shocking Mileage & Smart Price!

The Maruti Baleno CNG has emerged as one of the most practical and fuel-efficient premium hatchbacks in India. At a time when petrol prices frequently cross ₹100 per litre in many cities, factory-fitted CNG cars are witnessing record demand. Through its premium Nexa dealership chain, Maruti Suzuki has positioned the Baleno CNG as a premium yet economical alternative for urban and semi-urban buyers.

We cover:

  • Latest price in India (2026 update)

  • Detailed engine specs and performance

  • Real-world mileage analysis

  • Features and technology breakdown

  • Safety and build quality

  • Ownership cost calculation

  • Comparison with rivals

  • Long-term reliability insights

  • Who should buy it (and who should avoid it)

  • Final expert verdict

If you’re planning to buy a premium hatchback under ₹10 lakh with low running cost, this guide will help you make a confident decision.

1. Maruti Baleno CNG Price in India (2026)

The Maruti Baleno CNG is available in two main variants:

  • Delta CNG – ₹8.30 lakh (ex-showroom)

  • Zeta CNG – ₹9.25 lakh (ex-showroom)

(Prices may vary depending on state taxes and RTO charges.)

On-road prices typically range between ₹9.5 lakh to ₹10.8 lakh depending on the city.

Variant-Wise Difference

Feature Delta CNG Zeta CNG
Touchscreen 7-inch 7-inch
Alloy Wheels No Yes
Rear Wiper/Washer No Yes
Auto Climate Control No Yes
Push Button Start No Yes

The Zeta CNG variant offers a more premium feel, while Delta CNG focuses on value pricing.

2. Engine, Performance & Driving Dynamics

The Maruti Baleno CNG uses the trusted 1.2-litre K-Series DualJet petrol engine, optimized for CNG compatibility.

Technical Specifications

  • Engine: 1197cc, 4-cylinder petrol

  • Power (CNG mode): 77.5 PS

  • Torque (CNG mode): 98.5 Nm

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual

  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive

In petrol mode, the engine produces higher output, but in CNG mode, power is slightly reduced for efficiency and durability.

Real-World Performance Review

  • Smooth acceleration for city use

  • Light clutch makes traffic driving easy

  • Minimal vibrations even in CNG mode

  • Stable up to 100–110 km/h

The Maruti Baleno CNG is not built for aggressive performance. Instead, it prioritizes smoothness, refinement, and fuel savings.

3. Mileage: Why Baleno CNG Is So Popular

Mileage is the biggest highlight of the Maruti Baleno CNG.

  • ARAI Claimed Mileage: 30.61 km/kg

This makes it one of the highest mileage premium hatchbacks in India.

Real-World Mileage Test Data

  • City: 24–27 km/kg

  • Highway: 27–30 km/kg

  • Combined: 26–28 km/kg

With CNG prices averaging ₹70–₹80 per kg in most states, the running cost can drop to approximately ₹2.5 per kilometre  significantly lower than petrol.

4. Running Cost Comparison: Petrol vs CNG

Let’s calculate real savings.

Assumptions:

  • Monthly driving: 1,200 km

  • Petrol price: ₹105/litre

  • CNG price: ₹75/kg

Petrol Version

Mileage: 20 km/l
Monthly fuel expense: ₹6,300 approx

CNG Version

Mileage: 27 km/kg
Monthly fuel expense: ₹3,300 approx

Monthly Savings

₹3,000 approx
Annual savings: ₹36,000
5-year savings: ₹1.8 lakh+

The price premium of ₹90,000 can easily be recovered in 2–3 years.

5. Exterior Design & Road Presence

The Maruti Baleno CNG retains the stylish look of the petrol version.

Exterior Highlights

  • LED projector headlamps

  • LED DRLs

  • Chrome-accented grille

  • Sculpted body lines

  • 16-inch alloy wheels (Zeta)

It looks modern, premium, and urban-friendly  unlike older CNG cars that felt basic.

6. Interior Quality & Comfort

Inside the cabin, the Baleno CNG maintains a premium feel.

Cabin Features

  • Dual-tone black & blue dashboard

  • Premium fabric upholstery

  • 7-inch SmartPlay Pro infotainment

  • Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

  • Steering-mounted controls

  • Rear AC vents

  • 60:40 split seats

The only compromise is reduced boot space due to the CNG cylinder.

7. Boot Space & Practicality

The CNG tank occupies a significant portion of the boot.

  • Tank Capacity: 55-litre water equivalent

  • Boot space reduced compared to petrol model

For daily city usage, it’s manageable. However, long family trips may require careful luggage planning.

8. Safety Features & Build Quality

Safety has improved in the new-generation Baleno.

Standard Safety Kit

  • Dual airbags

  • ABS with EBD

  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

  • Hill Hold Assist

  • Rear parking sensors

  • ISOFIX mounts

The HEARTECT platform enhances structural strength compared to previous generations.

9. Maruti Baleno CNG vs Rivals

Main competitors include:

  • Tata Altroz CNG

  • Toyota Glanza CNG

  • Hyundai i20 (petrol)

Comparison Overview

Parameter Baleno CNG Altroz CNG Glanza CNG
Mileage 30.61 km/kg ~26 km/kg ~30 km/kg
Engine 1.2L 1.2L 1.2L
Boot Space Limited Better (twin cylinder) Limited
Network Extensive Growing Toyota network

The Tata Altroz CNG offers better luggage practicality due to its twin-cylinder setup. However, Baleno CNG offers superior claimed mileage and Maruti’s wider service reach.

10. Service Network & Maintenance

One major advantage of choosing the Maruti Baleno CNG is Maruti Suzuki massive service network across India.

  • 4,000+ service centers

  • Low spare parts cost

  • Strong resale value

Maintenance cost is similar to petrol version, with minor additional inspection for CNG components.

11. Long-Term Reliability

Factory-fitted CNG systems are safer and more reliable than aftermarket kits.

Benefits:

  • Better engine tuning

  • Warranty intact

  • Integrated safety systems

  • Proper weight balance

Maruti has years of CNG experience with models like WagonR and Celerio, which strengthens buyer confidence.

12. Pros & Cons Summary

Pros

  • Excellent 30.61 km/kg mileage

  • Lower fuel cost

  • Premium hatchback feel

  • Smooth city drive

  • Strong resale value

Cons

  • Reduced boot space

  • Manual transmission only

  • Slight power drop in CNG mode

13. Who Should Buy the Maruti Baleno CNG?

Ideal for:

  • Office commuters

  • High monthly running users

  • Ride-share drivers

  • Budget-conscious families

  • First-time premium hatch buyers

Not ideal for:

  • Buyers needing large boot space

  • Enthusiastic drivers seeking performance

  • Automatic transmission seekers

14. Future of CNG Cars in India

With stricter emission norms and rising petrol prices, CNG vehicles are expected to grow steadily. While EVs are gaining traction, CNG remains a practical middle-ground solution due to:

  • Lower upfront cost than EVs

  • No charging anxiety

  • Widespread fuel availability in urban India

The Maruti Baleno CNG fits perfectly into this transition phase.

Final Expert Verdict: Is Maruti Baleno CNG Worth Buying in 2026?

The Maruti Baleno CNG delivers exactly what Indian buyers need right now — premium styling, trusted brand value, and massive fuel savings.

While boot space compromise and lack of automatic gearbox may bother some buyers, the overall package remains extremely strong under ₹10 lakh.

If your priority is long-term savings without sacrificing comfort and features, the Maruti Baleno CNG is one of the smartest hatchback choices in India today.

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