With increasing fuel costs and a newfound emphasis on sustainability, CNG-fueled cars are increasingly appealing to Indian automobile buyers. Two heavyweights in this category—Maruti Suzuki Swift CNG and Tata Altroz CNG—are now directly competing in the premium hatchback market. Both are value-for-money, efficient, and practical, but are intended for slightly different classes of users. Here’s an in-depth comparison to assist you in making a decision on which one is best for you.
DESIGN AND ROAD PRESENCE
Tata Altroz CNG is distinctive with its aggressive and bold design language, typical of Tata’s IMPACT 2.0 design approach. It has a wider footprint, 16-inch alloys, aggressive character lines, and a premium front fascia, giving it a more premium look.
Maruti Swift CNG, meanwhile, continues its sporty, youthful look with a sleek and curved design. Though less striking than the Altroz, the Swift nonetheless has a strong brand and continues to attract young drivers.
INTERIOR AND SPACE
Altroz CNG wows with a layered, dual-tone dashboard and improved space utilisation. Thanks to Tata’s twin-cylinder tech, the vehicle maintains 210 litres of usable boot volume—a significant advantage for CNG buyers who tend to sacrifice luggage room.
Swift CNG is recognisable inside, with simple ergonomics and hard plastics. But its single-cylinder tank takes a serious toll on boot space, leaving no room for practicality on long drives or family outings.
PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY
Altroz CNG is driven by a 1.2L, 3-cylinder Revotron engine that churns out 74hp and 103Nm, along with a 5-speed manual transmission. The performance is sufficient for daily driving and provides a smooth ride with Tata’s well-tuned suspension system.
Swift CNG has a 1.2L, 3-cylinder K-series motor that produces 70hp and 95Nm in CNG trim. It’s marginally less powerful than the Altroz but is smoother and more agile on its feet. The Swift is also more fuel-efficient at 27.87 km/kg versus the Altroz’s 25.10 km/kg, making it a better bet for the wallet over time.
FEATURES AND EQUIPMENT
The Tata Altroz CNG is outfitted with advanced features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, rear aircon vents, projector headlamps, and a digital instrument cluster. Certain models feature additional amenities like a sunroof, rear parking camera, cruise control, and wireless charging, making it feel more premium in total. The cabin design focuses on roominess and comfort, particularly for rear passengers.
The Maruti Swift CNG is focused on sporty design and ease of use. It comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity, LED headlamps, wireless charging, steering-mounted controls, and climate control. The top variants have additional features in terms of safety, like multiple airbags and electronic stability control. The cabin of the Swift is small and easy to handle, which makes it perfect for city driving.
Both the hatchbacks boast useful and technologically advanced cabins, with the Altroz somewhat tipped toward being more feature-burdened and premium-feeling, versus the Swift favoring efficiency, security, and everyday usability.
SAFETY
Tata Altroz has received a 5-star Global NCAP rating in its petrol form, and the CNG variant is also blessed with the same level of structural solidity. Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and corner stability control also add to its safety features.
Maruti Swift, despite the presence of six airbags in its top trim, gets only a 2-star Global NCAP rating in its base form. While safety has been upgraded in recent Maruti updates, it still lags behind Tata’s build quality.
PRICING (Ex-showroom)
- Tata Altroz CNG: ₹7.60 lakh starting price
- Maruti Swift CNG: ₹8.20 lakh starting price
While more expensive than the Altroz, it’s worth the premium due to the increased features, room, and safety.
VERDICT: WHICH ONE TO BUY?
Select the Maruti Swift CNG if:
- Fuel efficiency and more refined driving dynamics are your top concerns.
- You want a small car with a sportier personality for urban driving.
- Budget is a priority, and boot space is not a critical consideration.
Select the Tata Altroz CNG if:
- You require additional interior room and usable boot capacity.
- Safety, features, and a premium feel are your primary concerns.
- You want a more balanced ride for highway and city use.
Both hatchbacks have carved a niche in the CNG market, but the final choice boils down to your driving needs and priorities. While the Swift appeals with its fuel savings and peppy drive, the Altroz delivers a stronger all-round package.
Vibhuti Saini