New Delhi: Major domestic automotive companies are increasingly shifting their focus away from petrol and diesel models to concentrate more on CNG variants. The demand for CNG variants is also on the rise. It is not just the companies; the government, too, appears to be encouraging the purchase of CNG variants as a means to improve air quality and reduce pollution levels.
key highlights
⚙️Key features
- Separate CNG fuel system alongside petrol
- TIGDI (Turbocharged Intercooled GDI) engine
- Dual-cylinder CNG tank — no boot space loss
- Select variants may have an underbody tank
- Initially available with a manual gearbox only
🌿Why CNG? (industry context)
- Auto companies shifting from petrol/diesel
- CNG demand rising among consumers
- Govt encouraging CNG for cleaner air
- Reduces pollution significantly
- Currently popular in the diesel avatar of XUV 3XO
Did you know that the automotive giant Mahindra is also planning to launch a CNG variant of its XUV 3XO model? This variant is expected to receive a strong reception in the market. Currently, customers are predominantly seen purchasing this vehicle in its diesel avatar. Read on to find out more details regarding this vehicle.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG Variant: A Unique Offering
It is anticipated that the CNG version of the Mahindra XUV 3XO will make a splash in the market, initially available exclusively with a manual transmission. Its features are also expected to be quite impressive. Mahindra intends to incorporate a separate fuel system alongside the existing 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. The company is launching this model with a distinct fuel injection system—specifically, a Turbocharged Intercooled Gasoline Direct Injection setup.
The vehicle is poised to establish a strong presence among customers. Its engine is designed to deliver 130 PS of power and 230 Nm of torque. Additionally, the transmission options include both a 6-speed Manual (6MT) and a 6-speed Automatic (6AT). Integrating CNG with an MPFi (Multi-Point Fuel Injection) engine proves to be a relatively simpler process; the CNG is mixed with air *before* entering the combustion chamber.
The CNG Tank Setup
The Mahindra XUV 3XO will feature a specialised CNG tank setup. This design ensures that there is absolutely no compromise on boot space. Instead of a single large tank—as is common in many CNG cars—this model is expected to utilise a dual-cylinder configuration. Furthermore, select variants may also feature an underbody CNG tank setup.
Pricing of the XUV 3XO CNG
Mahindra is likely to launch the XUV 3XO CNG variant early next year. The pricing of this vehicle is expected to be competitive and comparable to that of its direct rivals in the segment. For instance, the Tata Nexon CNG will be available at a starting price of ₹9.15 lakh. The vehicle will feature a 1.2-litre turbocharged Revotron engine.
In CNG mode, it delivers 100 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Brezza CNG, equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, appears to be making quite a splash in the market. The CNG option is available across the LXi, VXi, and ZXi trims of the Brezza. Its prices range from ₹9.17 lakh to ₹11.46 lakh.