As the demand for eco-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles continues to rise, car manufacturers are making strides in producing reliable and eco-conscious models. Two major players in the market are Hyundai and Tata, both offering CNG variants of their popular models. In fact, the Tata Punch has received the iCNG treatment within days of the launch of the Hyundai Exter (available with CNG option right from the day of its launch). However, in spite of the availability of the CNG option, the Tata Punch lags behind the Exter in more ways than one. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages the Hyundai Exter CNG enjoys over the Tata Punch iCNG. We even talk about the benefits that the Punch offers over the Exter.
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6 Standard Airbags
When it comes to safety, the Hyundai Exter CNG goes above and beyond by offering six standard airbags. In comparison, even the fully loaded trim of the Punch (not available on CNG) comes with just two airbags. Simply speaking, the additional airbags ensure maximum protection for the driver and passengers in the event of a collision.
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Standard TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is vital for safe driving and optimum fuel efficiency. The Hyundai Exter CNG comes equipped with a standard TPMS, which constantly monitors the pressure of all four tires and alerts the driver if any tire is underinflated. This feature is not only convenient but also helps to prevent potential accidents caused by tire-related issues. On the other hand, the Tata Punch iCNG lacks this important safety feature. Even though TPMS is available on the Punch, it’s not a standard fitment. Instead, it’s available only on the Creative trim not available on the CNG version.
4-Cylinder Engine
While both the Hyundai Exter CNG and the Tata Punch iCNG offer adequate performance, the 4-cylinder engine in the Exter CNG elevates the driving experience to a new level. With improved smoothness and refinement, the Exter iCNG ends up offering a better driving experience. For those seeking a more refined CNG-powered vehicle, the Hyundai Exter CNG is a better option over the Tata Punch iCNG, which comes with a 3-cylinder engine.
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Rear AC Vents
Comfort is paramount, especially during hot summer months or in crowded urban traffic. The Hyundai Exter CNG takes care of both front and rear passengers by offering rear air-conditioning vents on all variants except the base. However, this is a feature that the Tata Punch iCNG lacks even on the fully-loaded version. These vents ensure that cool air is evenly distributed throughout the cabin, keeping all occupants refreshed and comfortable. Rear passengers no longer have to rely solely on the front vents, as the Exter CNG’s rear vents provide a dedicated source of cool air.
Sales and Service
Apart from the vehicle itself, the overall ownership experience plays a significant role in customer satisfaction. Hyundai, being a renowned global brand, has an extensive network of dealerships and service centers. This ensures that Hyundai Exter CNG owners can easily access maintenance and support whenever required. While Tata also has a growing network, it is not as widespread and established as Hyundai’s.
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5 Benefits of Tata Punch iCNG Over Hyundai Exter CNG
Twin Cylinder Technology
The Tata Punch iCNG features company’s twin-cylinder technology. The one-of-a-kind technology ensures no compromise in the boot space from the addition of the CNG cylinders. This is, in fact, an innovative way to provide a ‘no compromise’ boot space while offering adequate CNG storage capacity.
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More Accessible
Prices of the Tata Punch iCNG start at Rs 7.10 Lakh (ex-showroom). In comparison the CNG-equipped Exter starts at Rs 8.24 Lakh. While the higher price tag of the Exter is justified through more features, CNG car buyers on a strict budget can simply choose the Punch and benefit from a lower price tag. The price gap of more than Rs 1 lakh should give the Punch a clear advantage over its newest rival.
5-Star Rating
As of now, the Tata Punch is the most affordable vehicle to have ever received a full 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. While the roll out of more stringent norms would ensure that the Punch, in its current spec, won’t receive the full safety score, the 5-star score awarded earlier is a testament to the car’s robust built and the carmaker’s emphasis on providing high crash safety irrespective of the price. The Exter surely gets more safety features, with the 6 airbags holding a clear advantage. However, it’s yet to be tested by NCAP. For those who need nothing short of a ‘5 star rated’ car for complete peace of mind, the Punch continues to be a good option. The new safety regulations notwithstanding, the Punch continues to be as safe as ever!
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More Powerful
The Exter CNG offers 67.72 bhp of maximum power with 95.2 Nm of peak torque. In comparison, the Tata Punch CNG offers 72.41 bhp and 103 Nm. There’s not a huge difference in the performance figures but the additional power definitely helps to make up for the approx 170 kg additional weight of the Punch. Also, the Punch can be started directly in CNG, a feature we’ve even seen and appreciated on other Tata iCNG models.
Easier Ingress and Egress
Finally, the Tata Punch offers 90-degree opening doors that allow very easy ingress and egress. The Exter’s doors open wide enough but they don’t open at an absolute right angle. Similarly, there are some other small benefits that make the Punch slightly more practical in some ways – it offers front armrest and it’s even the longest and the widest in the segment. In comparison, the Exter is taller and has a longer wheelbase. Practically, though, both the cars feel equally spacious. While the Exter might have marginally more legroom and better knee room, the Punch offers a slightly wider rear seat. But we’re pretty much nitpicking here.
What We Think
The Hyundai Exter CNG clearly emerges as the more appealing choice when compared to the Tata Punch iCNG on the basis of features, service network and refinement. It’s also the fresher of the two SUVs with respect to the aesthetics. But the Punch has its own advantages. The dual-cylinder technology with no compromise on the boot space is definitely something that will make life easier for the owners. Moreover, little bits like 90-degree opening doors and front arm-rest make the cabin a wee bit more practical. The Punch is the fastest SUV to sell 200000 units in the country and has been among the top 10 selling cars since its launch and not without a reason. Overall, the Punch iCNG can be a good bet for those looking for a practical CNG-powered micro SUV and are on a strict budget. On the other hand, the Exter CNG offers more features, a refined 4-cylinder engine and a wider sales and service network but costs a bit more.
With more standard safety features, more comfort and convenience-enhancing features, a four-cylinder engine and a robust sales and service network, the Exter CNG delivers a well-rounded package. However, the prices of the Punch CNG start over lakh rupees lower and it offers the unique twin-cylinder tech with no compromise boot. Hence, we urge our readers to list out their priorities and choose accordingly,
