As India continues to move towards a future focused on cleaner and more sustainable mobility, factory-fitted compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles have become increasingly popular. CNG cars provide a more environmentally friendly alternative to petrol and diesel cars, offering lower operating costs, reduced carbon emissions, and a significant decrease in fuel consumption. Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki, two of India’s leading automobile manufacturers and Maruti_Suzuki, have entered the CNG hatchback market with their respective offerings — the Tata Altroz iCNG and the Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG. These two models cater to a similar audience looking for eco-friendly solutions without compromising on style, comfort, or features.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the details of the Altroz CNG vs Baleno CNG, examining the dimensions, engine performance, features, safety, and pricing to help you make an informed decision on which car suits your needs best.
Tata Altroz iCNG vs Maruti Baleno S-CNG: Dimensions
When comparing the dimensions of the Tata Altroz iCNG and Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG, the two cars are relatively close in size, with some subtle but significant differences.
| Parameter | Tata Altroz iCNG | Maruti Baleno S-CNG |
| Length (mm) | 3990 | 3990 |
| Width (mm) | 1755 | 1745 |
| Height (mm) | 1523 | 1500 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2501 | 2520 |
| Boot Space (L) | 210 | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 165 | 170 |
Both cars have identical lengths (3990 mm), making them comparable in terms of overall size. However, the Altroz iCNG is slightly wider (by 10 mm) and taller (by 23 mm) compared to the Baleno S-CNG. The Altroz’s wider stance contributes to a more stable ride, particularly at higher speeds.
The Maruti Baleno S-CNG, on the other hand, boasts a slightly longer wheelbase (2520 mm, compared to the Altroz’s 2501 mm), which may provide it with better cabin space and stability on longer drives. The Baleno also has a marginally higher ground clearance (170 mm vs. 165 mm), making it better suited for tackling rough or bumpy roads.
The standout feature of the Tata Altroz iCNG lies in its innovative twin-cylinder layout. This design allows the Altroz to retain a boot space of 210 litres, which is significantly better than the Baleno S-CNG, whose boot space remains undisclosed and is generally considered to be much smaller due to the conventional single-cylinder CNG system. This makes the Altroz iCNG a more practical choice for buyers who need more luggage space.
While both vehicles offer similar exterior dimensions, the Tata Altroz iCNG offers a more efficient use of space, especially in terms of boot capacity. The Altroz’s twin-cylinder CNG system ensures that it stands out in this category for practicality.
Tata Altroz iCNG vs Maruti Baleno S-CNG: Engine & Transmission
In terms of powertrain, both cars use 1.2-litre engines, but with different configurations and performance characteristics.
| Parameter | Tata Altroz iCNG | Maruti Baleno S-CNG |
| Engine | 1.2L Revotron, 3 cyl | 1.2L K-Series Dual Jet, 4 cyl |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual | 5-speed Manual |
| Power | 73.5 PS | 77.4 PS |
| Torque (Nm) | 103 Nm | 98.5 Nm |
| Mileage (km/kg) | 26.2 | 30.61 |
The Tata Altroz iCNG uses a 1.2L Revotron engine with 3 cylinders that delivers 73.5 PS of power and 103 Nm of torque. This engine provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, particularly suited for urban commuting. Despite being slightly less powerful than the Baleno S-CNG, the Altroz iCNG’s engine is still refined and offers solid performance.
On the other hand, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG is powered by the more advanced 1.2L K-Series Dual Jet engine with four cylinders, which generates 77.4 PS of power and 98.5 Nm of torque. Although the Baleno has a slight edge in power, the difference in everyday driving is negligible, and both vehicles offer a comfortable driving experience.
Where the Baleno S-CNG truly shines is in its superior fuel efficiency. With a mileage of 30.61 km/kg, it outperforms the Altroz iCNG (26.2 km/kg) by a significant margin, making it the more fuel-efficient option for buyers prioritizing cost savings in the long run.
Section Summary: The Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG has a more powerful engine and better fuel efficiency, making it the winner in this category for performance and economy.
Tata Altroz iCNG vs Maruti Baleno S-CNG: Features and Comfort
The Altroz CNG vs Baleno CNG comparison becomes interesting when considering the array of features and comfort each car offers. While both cars are well-equipped with modern amenities, the Altroz iCNG boasts more premium features.
| Feature | Tata Altroz iCNG | Maruti Baleno S-CNG |
| Infotainment System | 7-inch Touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay | 7-inch Touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay |
| Music System | 8 speakers (Harman) | 6 speakers |
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic |
| Ventilated Seats | No | No |
| Adjustable Steering | Tilt | Tilt + Telescopic |
| Drive Modes | No | No |
| Instrument Cluster | 7-inch TFT Display | TFT Colour MID |
| Sunroof | Electric | No |
| Adjustable Seats | Manual (Height Adjustable) | Manual (Height Adjustable) |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| 60:40 Rear Seat Split | No | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | No |
The Tata Altroz iCNG comes with several high-end features such as an electric sunroof, an 8-speaker Harman audio system, cruise control, and rear AC vents, giving it a more premium feel. The Altroz also stands out for its innovative twin-cylinder CNG system and the direct start feature that allows the car to begin driving in CNG mode from the get-go.
In contrast, the Maruti Baleno S-CNG offers a simpler but still well-equipped package, with a 7-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, and SmartPlay Pro infotainment system. However, it lacks some of the luxury touches found in the Altroz, such as the electric sunroof and cruise control.
Section Summary: The Tata Altroz iCNG wins this round for offering more premium features and a better overall experience in terms of comfort and convenience.
Tata Altroz iCNG vs Maruti Baleno S-CNG: Safety Features
When it comes to safety, the Tata Altroz iCNG has the upper hand with its proven track record.
| Feature | Tata Altroz iCNG | Maruti Baleno S-CNG |
| GNCAP Safety Rating | 5 Stars | Not Tested |
| Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC | No | No |
| Traction Control | No | No |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | Yes |
| Rain-sensing Wipers | Yes (Top Variant) | Yes |
| Hill Hold Assist | No | Yes |
| Rear Parking Camera | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts | Yes | Yes |
| ADAS | No | No |
The Altroz iCNG is known for its safety, having earned a prestigious 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. It is built on Tata’s ALFA architecture and includes advanced safety features like dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and cornering fog lamps. Additionally, it includes a segment-first Auto Park Lock feature, enhancing security.
While the Maruti Baleno S-CNG does not yet have an NCAP rating, it is equipped with six airbags in higher variants, along with features like hill-hold assist, which aids in preventing rollback on inclines.
Section Summary: The Tata Altroz iCNG is the clear winner in this category, with its higher safety rating and more comprehensive safety features.
Tata Altroz iCNG vs Maruti Baleno S-CNG: Prices & Variants
In terms of pricing, Tata offers a more flexible range of variants for the Altroz iCNG, which may appeal to a wider audience.
| Variant | Tata Altroz iCNG | Maruti Baleno S-CNG |
| Base Variant | ₹7.55 lakh | ₹8.35 lakh |
| Mid Variant | ₹8.40 – ₹9.52 lakh | Not Applicable |
| Upper-Mid Variant | ₹9.99 lakh | Not Applicable |
| Top Variant | ₹10.55 lakh | ₹9.28 lakh |
The Altroz iCNG is available in six different variants, providing buyers with a broader selection and more price flexibility compared to the Baleno S-CNG, which is only offered in two trims. The base variant of the Altroz iCNG is priced lower than even the most affordable Baleno S-CNG trim by ₹80,000, making it a more budget-friendly option at the entry level. However, the top variant of the Baleno S-CNG is slightly cheaper by ₹73,000 compared to the top Altroz iCNG trim.
Section Summary: The Tata Altroz iCNG offers a greater range of options at different price points, while the Baleno S-CNG is a more affordable option at the higher end.
Summary
In the Altroz CNG vs Baleno CNG comparison, both cars bring a unique set of strengths to the table.
The Tata Altroz iCNG excels in terms of build quality, safety features, and a more feature-rich cabin, offering a superior experience for buyers looking for a premium and practical hatchback. Its 5-star GNCAP safety rating, innovative twin-cylinder CNG system, and comfort-focused features such as an electric sunroof and cruise control make it a compelling option for families.
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG, on the other hand, stands out for its superior fuel efficiency, delivering an impressive mileage of 30.61 km/kg. Its slightly more powerful engine and affordable pricing make it an excellent option for buyers prioritizing economy and performance.
Ultimately, your choice between the Tata Altroz iCNG and Maruti Suzuki Baleno S-CNG will depend on what you value most — whether it’s the Altroz’s superior safety, features, and practicality, or the Baleno’s unmatched fuel efficiency and value for money.
FAQs
Q: Which has better mileage between the Altroz iCNG and the Baleno S-CNG?
The Maruti Baleno S-CNG offers the best-in-segment mileage at 30.61 km/kg, outperforming the Altroz iCNG in terms of fuel efficiency. It’s a great option for buyers prioritizing the daily commuting economy.
Q: Which is safer, the Altroz iCNG or Baleno S-CNG?
The Altroz iCNG is safer, with a 5-star Global NCAP rating, making it one of the safest hatchbacks in its class. It also features a solid ALFA architecture that enhances passenger protection during impacts.
Q: Which car has better boot space in the Altroz CNG vs the Baleno CNG?
The Altroz iCNG offers 210 litres of boot space thanks to its innovative twin-cylinder layout, which frees up more room for luggage. The Baleno S-CNG, on the other hand, sacrifices a significant portion of its boot space to accommodate its single large cylinder.
Q: Which car offers more variants in the CNG lineup?
Tata Motors offers the Altroz iCNG in six variants, providing more flexibility across price and feature levels. In contrast, the Baleno S-CNG is available in just two trims, limiting customisation for different buyer preferences.
Q: Which is the more premium car in Altroz CNG vs Baleno CNG?
The Altroz iCNG feels more upmarket with features like an electric sunroof, 8-speaker Harman audio system, and cruise control. It delivers a richer cabin experience that positions it as the more feature-loaded and premium option between the two.
