Tata Punch CNG vs Maruti Fronx CNG : The ever-increasing popularity of compact SUVs fully justifies their practicality and beauty in India. In view of the rising costs of fuel, many have considered CNG-powered vehicles for the sake of enhanced mileage and running costs. The Tata Punch CNG and Maruti Fronx CNG are two interesting players in this space. Both offer CNG efficiency with essentially similar features, but which is a better performer and offers more value for money?
The Tata Punch CNG fires a 1.2 three-cylinder engine that produces about 72.41 bhp. This engine has a 5-speed manual transmission and returns a fuel efficiency of about 26.99 km/kg. The Maruti Fronx CNG engine is a 1.2 four-cylinder producing about 89 bhp. It, too, has a 5-speed manual and claims a mileage of about 28.51 km/kg.
Design-wise, it’s a typical robust compact SUV from this segment, which, together with its well-proven higher ground clearance, is a blessing for some urban soft-roading. On the other hand, the Maruti Fronx CNG, with its modern and elegant design, offers a slightly car-like feel along with that SUV-ish elevated seating position.
Both are built to carry five passengers in comfort. The Tata Punch CNG has 210 liters of boot space, quite generous for the segment, while the Maruti Fronx CNG has 308 liters of boot space, which is big enough for anything but huge luggage.
Both SUVs offer the basic features of a touchscreen infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, safety features like dual airbags, and ABS with EBD. Still, the Maruti Fronx CNG feels more premium due to its better-quality interiors and extra features on higher variants.
The Tata Punch CNG has a starting price of ₹7.30 lakh (ex-showroom) and is, therefore, a more reasonable alternative. Maruti Fronx CNG comes up at ₹8.53 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it firmly in the premium category.
If one is after a cheaper and more rugged yet spacious compact SUV, the Tata Punch CNG would be a worth-considering option. It is well suited to city driving and the odd long trip thrown in. However, if one considers a more powerful engine along with higher boot space and the desired few premium features, the Maruti Fronx CNG could be a more suited option.