Maruti Suzuki has quietly brought back its Grand Vitara S‑CNG variant after briefly discontinuing it earlier this year. This move comes just over two months after the company revealed a refreshed version of the standard Grand Vitara, signaling that Maruti continues to prioritize eco‑conscious choices for customers
Dual Variants: Delta & Zeta
The revamped CNG version is available in two trims—Delta and Zeta—priced at ₹13.48 lakh and ₹15.62 lakh respectively (ex‑showroom). The Delta CNG offers excellent value, while the Zeta adds a few extra amenities for buyers willing to stretch their budget. Compared to the earlier Grand Vitara CNG, the updated Delta costs ₹23,000 more, and the Zeta sees an increase of ₹41,000, reflecting Maruti’s efforts to bump up both features and safety .
Under the Hood: Reliable Dual‑Jet 1.5L Engine
At the heart of this model is Maruti’s trusted 1.5-liter K‑Series Dual‑Jet, Dual‑VVT petrol engine adapted for CNG. On CNG, it delivers about 88 hp and 121 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 5‑speed manual transmission and front‑wheel drive. These figures align with those of the earlier CNG version, emphasizing Maruti’s focus on efficiency over outright power.
Mileage That Turns Heads
What stands out most about the Grand Vitara S‑CNG is its claimed CNG fuel economy—an efficient 26.6 km per kg. For budget-conscious families and mileage-focused drivers, that means saving big at the pump while tackling daily commutes or highway runs comfortably.
Safety Upgrades: Six Airbags and More
Maruti has significantly enhanced the safety suite across both CNG trims. Standard features now include:
- Six airbags
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Hill‑Hold Assist
- ABS with Electronic Brake‑Force Distribution (EBD)
- Front and rear disc brakes
- ISOFIX anchors for child seats
In an era where safety is becoming non-negotiable, these additions make the Grand Vitara S‑CNG a standout offering in the compact SUV segment.
What’s Unchanged?
True to its eco-friendly design, the new CNG variant sticks to essentials with front-wheel drive only, no automatic transmission, and no AWD—similar to its predecessor. While other Grand Vitara trims offer AWD and automatic options, the S‑CNG continues to emphasize value and efficiency for the buyer who’s comfortable with a manual gearbox.
Practical Specs & Performance
A detailed look at the Delta CNG reveals a well-rounded package:
- Engine: 1.462 cc, inline‑4
- Power/Torque: 87 bhp @5,500 rpm, 121.5 Nm @4,200 rpm
- Transmission: 5‑speed manual, FWD
- Fuel tank capacity: roughly 45 liters (including CNG)
- Estimated CNG range: ~950 km
- Boot space: 373 liters
No other sub‑4 m compact SUVs currently offer factory-fitted CNG, making this model a unique proposition in its class .
Broader Context: Amid Growth and Evolution
Launched in 2022, the Grand Vitara quickly rose to become one of Maruti’s flagship mid-size SUVs. It cracked 300,000 units sold in 32 months, underscoring its popularity on Indian roads. Its appeal comes from its practicality, modern styling, hybrid powertrains, and a feature-packed cabin.
The brand’s broader hybrid lineup—from mild to strong hybrids—addresses different customer needs. The reintroduction of the CNG trim aligns with Maruti’s strategy to diversify powertrains, alongside efforts to reduce emissions and fuel costs.
A Green Light for Sustainability
Maruti’s S‑CNG rollout further emphasizes green mobility. With a factory‑fitted kit, it promises better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and less hassle than aftermarket conversions. This launch reinforces Maruti’s commitment to sustainable mobility, giving buyers a more affordable and greener alternative within its popular SUV lineup.
Who Should Consider the Grand Vitara S‑CNG?
- Long-distance commuters looking for serious CNG mileage—double the range compared to petrol variants.
- Families needing room, safety, and efficiency with good cabin comfort and decent boot space.
- Budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind manual gearboxes and appreciate cost savings at the pump.
How It Stacks Up Against Petrol/Hybrid Versions
Compared to its petrol and hybrid siblings, the S‑CNG variant doesn’t match them in outright performance or AWD/automatic convenience. But consider:
- Petrol manual costs ~₹11.42 lakh (base Sigma Smart Hybrid)
- Hybrid petrol starts around ₹13–20 lakh
- S‑CNG Delta at ₹13.48 lakh sits strategically between them, offering the lowest running cost.
So if fuel savings matter most and you’re okay with manual driving dynamics, the CNG version becomes hard to beat.
The Road Ahead
With its relaunch, the Grand Vitara S‑CNG offers buyers an eco‑friendly, safety-rich, and cost-effective compact SUV. While lacking AWD and automatic transmission might deter some, the package remains compelling for mileage-savvy users.
Maruti’s decision to fortify the S‑CNG with five-star features and robust performance makes it a solid mid-size SUV contender—gaining an edge in a crowded segment. As fuel prices fluctuate and the push for greener vehicles intensifies, this model could find favor among the urban commuter and large-family cohorts alike.
Final Word
Maruti Suzuki’s decision to reintroduce the Grand Vitara S‑CNG with added safety, proven engine technology, and a great mileage promise gives eco-conscious SUV buyers genuine value. It’s a refined choice: efficient, affordable, spacious, and clad with modern safety—ready to challenge both petrol and hybrid versions in its segment.