Even with conservative estimates, CNG variants are likely contributing around 25% to overall sales in the sub-4-meter SUV segment
Mahindra recently launched the CNG version of XUV 3XO at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh. This boosts powertrain options for XUV 3XO, which is also available in petrol, diesel and EV formats. Mahindra is referring to the CNG model as ‘ZNG’, similar to related terminologies such as Maruti’s ‘S-CNG’ and Tata’s ‘iCNG’. XUV 3XO ZNG has its own USPs and limitations, just like its rivals. Here’s a quick comparison of XUV 3XO ZNG vs. Brezza S-CNG vs. Nexon iCNG to better understand the options available.
Performance, mileage
Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG gets power from a 1.2-litre turbo petrol MPFI engine. It delivers 114.5 PS and 200 Nm of peak torque. As compared to the current industry standard of 5-6 bar pressure, XUV 3XO ZNG’s engine uses a 10-bar injector pressure. This ensures largely the same level of performance as the petrol-only variant.
For folks who want CNG without compromising on performance, the XUV 3XO ZNG could be a preferred option. XUV 3XO ZNG has the highest power and torque, as compared to rivals. Maruti Brezza S-CNG is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine. It generates 88 PS and 121.5 Nm of torque. Tata Nexon iCNG gets power from a 1.2-litre turbo engine, generating 100 PS and 170 Nm.
These numbers clearly reveal that XUV 3XO ZNG has a clear lead in terms of performance. For anyone buying a CNG car, mileage is a key factor in the decision making process. In this context, Maruti Brezza S-CNG leads with a mileage of 26.90 km/kg. XUV 3XO ZNG has second best numbers at 24.70 km/kg. Nexon iCNG is just slightly lower, offering a mileage of 24 km/kg.
Boot space, spare tyre availability
All three CNG models have utilized innovative ways to enhance boot space. XUV 3XO ZNG and Nexon iCNG use a twin-cylinder (30+30 litres) setup, whereas Brezza S-CNG has a single underbody CNG tank. Brezza CNG does not offer a spare wheel, which further improves boot space. The SUV offers a tyre repair kit instead.
Boot space available with Brezza CNG is 328 litres, the best in this group. Nexon iCNG and Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG have boot space of 321 litres and 270 litres, respectively. Both have an underbody-mounted spare wheel. While the boot space varies, the difference is not large enough to be a deal breaker.
Price comparison
Comparing the base CNG variants, the most affordable is Nexon iCNG Smart, priced at Rs 8.30 lakh. Brezza S-CNG LXi base variant is priced at Rs 9.35 lakh. Mahindra XUV 3XO ZNG base variant ‘MX Edge’ starts at Rs 9.99 lakh. Nexon and Brezza have a clear lead in pricing for the respective base variants.
Among the mid variants, Nexon iCNG continues to be the most accessible, priced at Rs 10 lakh for the Pure+ and Rs 10.62 lakh for the Pure+ PS variant. XUV 3XO ZNG AX5 is available at Rs 11.19 lakh. Maruti Brezza S-CNG ZXi is the costliest here, priced at Rs 11.50 lakh. Among the top variants, XUV 3XO ZNG REVX A is the most accessible at Rs 12.27 lakh. Nexon iCNG Fearless+ PS is priced at Rs 13.42 lakh.
