The Maruti Suzuki Celerio is among India’s most fuel-efficient hatchbacks, valued for its small size, roomy interiors, and low running costs. Equipped with a 1.0-litre petrol engine, the Celerio comes in both petrol and CNG fuel variants to suit various driving requirements.
The petrol variant is available in both manual and AMT (automatic) transmission, while the CNG variant is available only in manual transmission. This pairing makes the Celerio an ideal vehicle for daily city commutes and occasional highway driving.
In this comparison, we’ll focus on one of the most crucial buying factors: mileage. We’ll review the official ARAI-certified figures, compare them with real-world performance, and see which variant offers the best balance between performance and cost savings.
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Maruti Celerio ARAI Mileage Figures
Official ARAI-certified mileage for the Celerio across all engine and transmission options is:
| Engine & Transmission | ARAI Mileage (km/l) |
| Petrol – Manual | 25.24 km/l |
| Petrol – Automatic | 26.68 km/l |
| CNG – Manual | 34.43 km/kg |
Maruti Celerio Real-World Mileage vs ARAI Mileage
While ARAI returns are obtained under theoretical test conditions, real-world driving conditions yield mixed results. Under city driving, the petrol manual achieves approximately 23 km/l, while the AMT petrol achieves 19–20 km/l. Under highway driving, the petrol manual is capable of achieving 26 km/l, while the AMT is capable of delivering approximately 20 km/l.
The CNG version achieves approximately 32 km/kg in urban riding and comes very close to its advertised 34 km/kg highway mileage.
A few aspects that affect the variance between ARAI and real-world mileage are:
- Driving Style: Rapid acceleration and hard braking come at the expense of fuel efficiency. Smooth, progressive inputs to the accelerator and brake pedal can be made to yield more efficiency.
- Traffic Conditions: Traffic conditions are not conducive to fuel-efficient driving for CNG and petrol vehicles. Excessive idling time during traffic conditions causes the engine to consume more fuel for a shorter distance covered.
- Load & AC Use: More passengers and frequent AC usage lower mileage. Unnecessary loading on the engine consumes extra power and thus fuel.
- Maintenance: Keeping the tyre pressure at optimal levels, maintaining clean air filters, and servicing the car timely helps ensure maximum mileage. A properly serviced vehicle helps you get closer to the ARAI fuel figures.
The fuel economy of the Celerio ranks among the top in its class for most customers, and the CNG option is in high demand due to its low operating expenses.
Maruti Celerio Fuel Efficiency Comparison: Petrol vs CNG
When it comes to fuel economy, the Maruti Celerio, available in both petrol and CNG variants, is suitable for two categories of drivers. The petrol variant is a balanced blend of performance and frugality, catering to both city driving and weekend getaways.
The CNG variant, however, is for those seeking to minimize running expenses as much as possible, particularly on a day-to-day, high-mileage basis.
In actual usage conditions, the two would differ more clearly in urban driving, with constant stops, low speeds, and short runs making a significant difference to mileage.
Maruti Celerio City Fuel Efficiency Comparison
In city traffic conditions, the petrol Celerio excels in terms of mileage but inevitably suffers due to the repeated braking and acceleration associated with city driving. The AMT variant offers convenience at the cost of being marginally less fuel-efficient than the manual variant, due to the nature of power delivery.
Meanwhile, the CNG variant is better suited for daily commutes in city traffic due to its lower running cost per kilometre.
The primary reasons behind the variation are:
- Fuel Flexibility: CNG excels in low-speed driving, providing uniform mileage to those who are forever stuck in congested traffic or take short runs. It is therefore highly beneficial to ride-hailing services and urban driving commuters.
- Engine Management: The Celerio CNG calibration is biased towards economy by maintaining lower revs in crawling traffic conditions to minimise wasteful fuel consumption. This optimises the driving range between refills without trading smoothness.
- Stop-Start Efficiency: Petrol cars consume more fuel due to repeated acceleration during stop-and-go traffic. In this regard, CNG variants tend to perform better. This is also strongly observed in congested traffic during peak hours in urban areas.
- Fuel Consumption While Idling: While driving through protracted red lights or at traffic jams, CNG burns less fuel compared to petrol, which is one of the benefits of city driving. Such minor savings, accumulated over time, eventually result in a tremendous cost advantage.
- Thermal Stability: CNG engines maintain more stable temperatures during stop-and-go travel, contributing to improved long-term efficiency. This also lowers wear on some engine components during extended city driving.
Maruti Celerio Highway Fuel Efficiency Comparison
The petrol Celerio showcases its virtues on the highway with spirited performance and its ability to maintain high mileage at constant cruise speeds. The manual trim generally outperforms the AMT in terms of efficiency due to direct control over gear changes.
Meanwhile, the CNG model remains at a reasonable price per kilometre but occasionally becomes somewhat unresponsive during fast overtaking manoeuvres or steep hill climbs.
Highway mileage criteria are as follows:
- Constant-Speed Performance: Petrol variants are designed for constant higher speeds, although CNG still offers the lower fuel cost for long-distance users. CNG is thus a low-cost option for economically viable intercity commuting.
- Passenger & Luggage Load: Additional weight and consistent use of AC decrease efficiency in both, albeit a bit more for the CNG model. Planning lighter loads for travel will help maximise fuel consumption.
- Driving Discipline: Maintaining a constant speed and avoiding sudden acceleration or braking boosts efficiency for both models. This also enhances comfort for long drives.
- Road Gradient & Altitude: Petrol versions perform better on hilly roads or gradient slopes due to their increased power. However, CNG variants will need to downshift to keep the pace. This can add marginally to travel time on upward roads.
- Refuelling Convenience: Petrol remains the most convenient fuel for refuelling anywhere, while CNG customers need to preplan because the availability of filling stations along highways is low. For frequent highway users, preplanning CNG refills is obligatory.
Maruti Celerio Fuel Cost Comparison: Petrol vs CNG
Understanding fuel costs is essential when deciding between the petrol and CNG variants of the Maruti Celerio. Let’s compare the running expenses based on a typical monthly driving of 1500 km and a few other aspects to help you gauge which option fits your budget better.
| Aspect | Petrol | CNG |
| Monthly Running Distance | 1500 km | 1500 km |
| Monthly Fuel Use | ~60 litres | ~45 kg |
| Avg. Monthly Fuel Cost* | ₹5,040 | ₹2,250 |
| Avg. Yearly Fuel Cost | ₹60,480 | ₹27,000 |
| 5-Year Fuel Cost | ₹3,02,400 | ₹1,35,000 |
Note: Fuel expense is approximated based on the average petrol price of ₹84/litre and the CNG price of ₹50/kg. Prices vary by location.
With almost half the running cost, the CNG version is the more economical choice for frequent, long-distance drivers. However, the petrol variant still offers more flexibility, quicker refuelling, and better performance in varied driving conditions.
Maruti Celerio Mileage vs Competitors
Comparing the Maruti Celerio’s mileage with that of some of its closest rivals provides insight into its fuel efficiency. Here’s a look at official mileage figures for petrol and CNG variants (wherever applicable):
| Model | Petrol Mileage (km/l) | CNG Mileage (km/kg) |
| Maruti Suzuki Celerio | 25.24 km/l | 34.43 km/kg |
| Maruti Suzuki WagonR | 24.35 km/l | 34.05 km/kg |
| Maruti Suzuki S-Presso | 24.76 km/l | 32.73 km/kg |
| Tata Tiago | 19.01 km/l | NA |
The Celerio stands out with the highest fuel efficiency in its class for both petrol and CNG trims. Its lightweight design, next-gen K10C engine, and optimised gearing contribute to remarkable savings without compromising on daily usability.
Summary
The Celerio CNG is perfect for long-distance daily commuters on a tight budget. It boasts segment-best CNG mileage, lower running expenses, and still retains necessary features and a smooth ride. Meanwhile, the petrol version is perfect for the convenience buyer with slightly better performance and enhanced refuelling options.
Your decision between petrol and CNG will depend on your daily commute length, availability of CNG filling stations, and driving style. Both variants uphold Maruti Suzuki’s hallmark qualities—low maintenance costs, dependable reliability, and substantial resale value—making the Celerio a smart and economical hatchback choice.
FAQs About Maruti Celerio Mileage Comparison
Q. Is Celerio India’s most fuel-efficient car?
Yes, as per official ARAI records, the Celerio is one of the most fuel-efficient cars available in India currently in petrol and CNG versions. Its lightweight platform and technology-backed powertrain set it apart from others in its class.
Q. Does CNG affect the performance of the Celerio?
Partially, yes. CNG mode is all about efficiency, and hence, the acceleration is lower compared to petrol. It’s still more than sufficient for day-to-day commutes, though. But for routine highway overtakes, petrol mode provides a quicker response.
Q. How do I maximise mileage in my Celerio?
Sustain even speeds, keep tyre pressure at optimal levels, and ensure the car is serviced regularly. Minimising overloading is also beneficial. Using proper quality fuel and avoiding hard acceleration and braking might further improve efficiency.
Q. Does the CNG kit in the Celerio reduce boot space?
Yes. The CNG fuel tank is installed inside the boot; hence, storage space is less compared to the petrol model. Additional small luggage or roof racks might be essential for extended trips.
Q. Is the mileage for Celerio’s urban driving and intercity driving different?
Yes, it depends on driving conditions. City driving that involves constant braking and idling is slightly less efficient. On the highway, where the vehicle can cruise at steady speeds, the mileage is better and thus more fuel-efficient.
