KIA prepares to launch a seven-seater car with a compressed natural gas engine to compete with Maruti

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to release an updated version of its popular hatchback model. The updated Maruti Baleno is expected to appear early next month. Test models have appeared on the streets multiple times before the official launch, suggesting some changes to the car.

The updated Baleno is expected to be released in the first week of September, specifically on September 5th. Although not very significant changes are expected in the design and interior of the car, a major change concerning the transmission is possible. According to reports, Maruti may do something that only Tata has managed so far.

There is a possibility that the updated Maruti Suzuki Baleno will offer an automatic gearbox combined with CNG. If this happens, Maruti Suzuki will become the second manufacturer to offer this option, alongside Tata. Below is an overview of what new features might appear in this model.

The updated Baleno will feature a redesigned front fascia, equipped with an updated bumper and grille design. Maruti may install a connected LED strip or a chrome structure that divides the grille into two parts. The overall design of the car will remain the same, without any changes.

The new car may also be fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, and there may be some minor modifications to the rear. The taillight design will remain unchanged. As for the cabin, the Maruti Suzuki Baleno Facelift might feature a new cabin theme. The company may also make changes to the dashboard to give the cabin a fresher look. Like the current Baleno, it will be equipped with HUD, a 360-degree camera, and other functions. Additionally, the updated version may include new features such as ventilated seats, an electric sunroof, a larger multimedia system, wireless phone charging, an improved sound system, and other options.

The car will be equipped with numerous safety systems, including parking sensors, a rear camera, ABS, EBD, ESP, hill-start assist, six airbags, and other safety features. The engine of the car will not change; it will have a 1.2-liter petrol engine that produces 90 hp and 113 Nm of torque. The car will be offered with a 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox.

According to the latest reports, the updated Maruti Suzuki Baleno may feature an automatic gearbox with CNG, which would be a significant step for Maruti. This is especially relevant for those who desire comfortable city driving combined with better fuel economy.

Currently, Skoda sells only gasoline-powered vehicles in the Indian market, but the company plans to introduce various powertrains in the future. The brand confirmed that a diesel-engine Superb will be released next year, and it is also preparing to launch an electric vehicle that will appear in India in 2027.

In parallel, Skoda is actively working on implementing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) equipment. The company plans to equip the CNG powertrain with a 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine is used in the Kodiaq, Slavia, and Kushaq models, meaning that the CNG option could appear in all three of these vehicles. The introduction of the CNG engine will allow Skoda to compete with Tata, Maruti, and Hyundai in the Indian market.

According to AutoCar Professional, Aashish Gupta, Director of Skoda India, stated that the 1.0-liter engine and the MQB A0-IN platform are common to the Kodiaq, Slavia, and Kushaq, which opens up possibilities for all three products. Discussing the topic of CNG, he noted that the crisis in the Middle East and the blending of ethanol have undermined consumer confidence in gasoline, leading to a decline in market share. To remain competitive, companies need to offer alternatives. He emphasized that the Kodiaq segment is key for them, and this is where they aim to introduce the CNG option.

The main goal for Skoda in introducing CNG is to maintain performance while ensuring fuel efficiency. Gupta reported that consumers are willing to accept a 10–15% reduction in performance compared to gasoline counterparts when using CNG. Skoda's 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine produces 115 hp and 178 Nm of torque.

Aashish Gupta believes that buyers can purchase CNG vehicles even at a higher price because every car has its place. He also mentioned the presence of premium customers who are interested in CNG vehicles for economic benefit. Currently, the price of the Kodiaq ranges from 7.59 lakh to 12.99 lakh rupees, and the Kushaq starts from 10.99 lakh and reaches 18.99 lakh rupees. The company has not yet announced prices for the Slavia Facelift, and it will be interesting to see how Skoda integrates the CNG engine into these models.