Maruti Suzuki Dzire Petrol vs CNG: Which Variant is More Cost-Effective?

Maruti Suzuki Dzire Petrol vs CNG

For years, Indian drivers have loved the Maruti Suzuki Dzire for its stylish design, roomy interior, and fuel efficiency. But with fuel prices soaring and eco-awareness growing, more buyers are weighing petrol models against CNG versions. This article breaks down the maintenance costs between Dzire’s petrol and compressed natural gas models.

Understanding the Basics: Difference Between CNG and Petrol Variants

Before discussing the specifics, it’s essential to understand what distinguishes the petrol and CNG versions of the Maruti Dzire.

Engine Specifications: Both Dzire variants have a similar engine design but utilise different fuel types.
Fuel Efficiency: Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating cost-effectiveness.
Environmental Impact: CNG is often viewed as a greener alternative to petrol, which adds another layer to the decision-making process.

Engine Specifications

The Maruti Dzire is equipped with a Z12E engine, boasting an engine capacity of 1197 cc. Here’s a closer look at the performance metrics for both variants:

Petrol Variant

Maximum Power: 60 kW (81.58 PS) @ 5700 rpm
Maximum Torque:7 Nm @ 4300 rpm

CNG Variant

Maximum Power: 51.3 kW (69.75 PS) @ 5700 rpm
Maximum Torque: 101.8 Nm @ 2900 rpm

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a key metric for cost-effectiveness.

Petrol Efficiency: The petrol variants of the Maruti Dzire offer a commendable fuel efficiency of 24.79 km/l to 25.71 km/l, which makes it viable for daily commutes and long drives.
CNG Efficiency: On the flip side, the CNG variant ensures impeccable fuel efficiency, rated at 33.73 km/kg. This means that for every kilogram of CNG, drivers can expect to travel a considerably longer distance relative to that with petrol.

Maintenance Costs

Weighing maintenance costs:

Petrol maintenance: More frequent servicing is required. Complex engines result in pricier parts and labour over time.
CNG maintenance: Initial investment may be higher, but simpler engines have lower long-term costs and require fewer repairs.

Environmental Impact

Driving a vehicle with a lower environmental impact is becoming increasingly important today.

Emission Standards: Both variants adhere to the BS VI emission standards, which means they are designed to produce fewer pollutants. However, CNG is considered a cleaner fuel than petrol because it emits lower levels of harmful gases.
Sustainability: Choosing the CNG variant benefits your wallet and the environment. CNG vehicles’ reduced carbon footprint makes them a more sustainable option for eco-conscious consumers.

Driving Experience

While cost is a significant consideration, the overall driving experience should not be overlooked.

Petrol Driving Experience: The petrol variant is known for its smooth acceleration and responsive handling. It provides a balanced driving experience, making it suitable for city and highway driving.
CNG Driving Experience: While efficient, the CNG variant may have slightly lower power output than petrol, which is particularly noticeable during high-speed acceleration. However, everyday city driving offers a comfortable and reliable experience.

Availability and Infrastructure

Another key factor determining the choice between petrol and CNG is the availability and infrastructure of the fuel.

Availability of Petrol: A dense network of petrol stations exists even in remote corners of the earth, making refuelling convenient and hassle-free.
Availability of CNG: Although CNG is a cheaper, cleaner fuel, it might not be available in certain areas. Long-distance travellers would have difficulty finding CNG stations; availability means petrol is a more viable option.

Resale Value

Resale value can also influence your decision between petrol and CNG variants.

Petrol Resale Value: Generally, petrol vehicles have a broader market appeal, translating into higher resale values.
CNG Resale Value: While the demand for CNG vehicles is growing, it may not match the resale value of petrol cars, especially in regions with limited CNG infrastructure.

Maruti Dzire: A Trusted Choice

The Maruti Dzire received a commendable reputation in the Indian automobile market thanks to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall value for money. The Dzire earns an edge due to its low maintenance and efficient service network. With ample space inside, easy-to-use features, and modern tech integration, it would be an ideal fit for families and working professionals. There are numerous variants of the Dzire for buyers to consider, depending on their budget and style of driving.

Conclusion

The CNG version of the Maruti Dzire stands tall in terms of cost-effectiveness. Its better fuel economy, lower running cost, and lesser environmental harm make it one of the best options for budget-conscious consumers. But, even if the entire driving experience and broader resale value would be better served by the petrol version, for you, there is still the scope of pursuing the petrol variant. It is a matter of personal priorities and choices between Maruti Dzire petrol and CNG. Weighing long-term savings, environment, and overall driving experience will help guide one to an informed choice that best suits his or her lifestyle and needs.