CNG cars have become a popular choice among Indian buyers looking to reduce their daily fuel expenses. They offer an economical alternative to petrol-powered vehicles, making them attractive for office commutes, family trips, and regular city driving. However, one common concern has always been limited boot space, as the CNG cylinder can occupy a significant portion of the luggage compartment.

Automakers are now addressing this challenge with innovative cylinder arrangements, including dual-cylinder technology and underbody CNG tanks. These designs help preserve valuable luggage space without giving up the benefits of CNG fuel.

If you are planning to buy a CNG car but do not want to compromise on practicality, here are four options worth considering.

1. Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG

The Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG stands out for combining an SUV design with a factory-fitted dual-cylinder CNG system. This arrangement allows luggage to be stored in the space above the cylinders, making the boot more practical than a conventional CNG layout.

The vehicle offers a reported 270 litres of boot space, compared with 364 litres in the petrol version.

Key specifications include:

• Engine: 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine adapted for CNG operation.

• Power and torque in CNG mode: Reported 111 hp and 200 Nm.

• Transmission: Six-speed manual gearbox.

• Claimed fuel efficiency: 24.7 km/kg.

• Reported ex-showroom price: ₹9.99 lakh to ₹12.27 lakh.

The dual-cylinder arrangement makes the XUV 3XO CNG worth considering for buyers who want an SUV with useful luggage capacity. However, its actual practicality will depend on the variant and the amount of luggage being carried.

2. Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG is another option for buyers who want an SUV that balances fuel economy and everyday practicality.

Its CNG tank is positioned beneath the vehicle's body, helping preserve the luggage compartment. The model is reported to offer 328 litres of boot space, making it a practical choice for everyday shopping and family travel.

Its key specifications include:

• Engine: 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

• Power and torque in CNG mode: Approximately 88 hp and 121.5 Nm.

• Transmission: Manual gearbox.

• Claimed fuel efficiency: 26.9 km/kg.

The Brezza S-CNG could appeal to buyers who prioritise a spacious luggage area and economical running costs. Its claimed mileage is also competitive among the models covered here.

Before making a purchase, check the latest variant-wise specifications and boot-capacity figures with an authorised dealership.

3. Tata Nexon iCNG

The Tata Nexon iCNG offers another approach to solving the traditional boot-space problem in CNG vehicles. Its dual-cylinder technology is designed to improve luggage accommodation while retaining the convenience of factory-fitted CNG.

The reported boot capacity is 321 litres, providing useful room for everyday luggage and shorter family trips.

Here are its key specifications:

• Engine: 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

• Power and torque in CNG mode: Reported 100 hp and 170 Nm.

• Transmission: Six-speed manual gearbox.

• Claimed fuel efficiency: 24 km/kg.

• Reported ex-showroom price: Approximately ₹8.35 lakh to ₹13.42 lakh.

The Nexon iCNG may suit buyers looking for a compact SUV with a combination of practicality, turbocharged performance, and lower running costs.

Its dual-cylinder setup is particularly useful for people who regularly carry bags, groceries, or other household items.

4. Maruti Suzuki Victoris S-CNG

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris S-CNG offers a different solution by placing its CNG tank underneath the vehicle. This arrangement helps retain a usable luggage compartment while providing the advantages of CNG-powered driving.

The CNG version is reported to offer 320 litres of boot space, compared with 439 litres in the petrol version.

Its key specifications include:

• Engine: 1.5-litre engine.

• Power and torque in CNG mode: Approximately 87 hp and 121.5 Nm.

• Transmission: Five-speed manual gearbox.

• Claimed fuel efficiency: 27.02 km/kg.

• Reported ex-showroom price: ₹11.55 lakh to ₹14.82 lakh.

With its underbody tank arrangement and competitive claimed fuel efficiency, the Victoris S-CNG could be an option for families looking for a practical vehicle for regular commuting and occasional road trips.

Which CNG Car Should You Consider?

Your ideal choice depends on how you plan to use the vehicle.

• For a compact SUV with dual-cylinder technology, consider the Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG.

• For a family SUV with a focus on luggage space and fuel economy, consider the Maruti Suzuki Brezza S-CNG.

• For buyers interested in turbocharged performance and a dual-cylinder setup, the Tata Nexon iCNG is worth evaluating.

• For a larger family vehicle with an underbody CNG tank, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris S-CNG deserves consideration.

The Bottom Line

CNG cars no longer have to mean sacrificing all your luggage space. Dual-cylinder systems and underbody tank designs are helping manufacturers make these vehicles more practical for Indian families.

However, the boot capacities, mileage figures, and prices mentioned above should be verified against current manufacturer specifications, as they can vary by variant and model year. Also compare rear-seat comfort, safety features, service costs, and local CNG availability before deciding which vehicle offers the best value for your needs.