Maruti Suzuki launches automatic S-CNG Swift, Dzire and Baleno; prices start at ₹7.92 lakh

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has launched automatic S-CNG versions of the Swift, Dzire and Baleno, expanding its factory-fitted CNG portfolio as demand for the technology gains momentum. The new models are priced from ₹7.92 lakh for the Swift, ₹8.32 lakh for the Baleno and ₹8.53 lakh for the Dzire, ex-showroom.

The three models combine Maruti Suzuki’s S-CNG technology with a five-speed automated manual transmission (AMT). The Dzire S-CNG AMT delivers a claimed fuel efficiency of 36.47 km/kg, which the automaker describes as the country’s most fuel-efficient sedan. The Swift and Baleno return 35.34 km/kg and 34.47 km/kg, respectively.

S-CNG sales rise 58% in Q1

The product expansion comes against a sharp increase in demand for Maruti Suzuki’s S-CNG vehicles. The company said S-CNG sales rose 58% year-on-year during the first quarter of the current year, while July sales reached a record 83,000 units.

“With modern Indian cities experiencing rapid growth, new-age customers are looking for the convenience of an automatic car without compromising on fuel-efficiency and performance in traffic conditions,” said Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India. He said the new automatic S-CNG models under the company’s Auto Green Mission are aimed at customers seeking automatic driving convenience alongside fuel efficiency.

Banerjee added that the company has been witnessing “unprecedented demand” for S-CNG vehicles, with changing customer expectations around environmentally friendly mobility driving their acceptance across segments.

1.2-litre engine gets five-speed AMT

The Swift, Dzire and Baleno S-CNG AMT are powered by Maruti Suzuki’s 1,197cc Z12E engine, featuring Dual Variable Valve Timing and Idle Start Stop (ISS) technology. The engine produces 82.93 PS and 112.4 Nm in petrol mode, while CNG mode delivers 69.75 PS and 101.8 Nm.

The five-speed Auto Gear Shift transmission enables clutchless driving while also allowing manual gear changes. The setup is designed for city and heavy-traffic conditions.

Factory-fitted CNG technology

Maruti Suzuki’s S-CNG system uses an Intelligent Injection System and incorporates stainless-steel pipes and joints, integrated wire harnesses and a microswitch that prevents the vehicle from starting during CNG refuelling. ISS technology is designed to help save fuel in heavy traffic.

“During the first quarter of this year, we experienced a 58% increase in sales over the same quarter last year for our S-CNG vehicles. In July, we recorded the highest-ever S-CNG vehicle sales in a month at 83,000 units,” Banerjee said, adding that the automatic S-CNG range is expected to contribute to the growing share of cleaner-fuel vehicles in India.