New Maruti Dzire CNG vs Hyundai Aura CNG – What To Buy?

CNG cars have been gaining immense popularity in the Indian market for a long time now

In this post, I am comparing the new Maruti Dzire CNG with the Hyundai Aura CNG. Both these are direct competitors in the compact sedan space. In fact, the Dzire is the highest-selling sedan in India ever. Note that it entered our market back in 2008 and became an instant success. Currently, we see it in its 4th-generation avatar and the demand is still at an all-time high. In fact, it became the first Maruti Suzuki car ever to score a full 5-star safety rating at the Global NCAP. On the other hand, the Aura has also been doing decently on the sales charts. It finds applications among private buyers, as well as commercial fleet operators. Let us compare the two thoroughly.

Maruti Dzire CNG vs Hyundai Aura CNG – Price

We know that India is a price-conscious market which is why cost plays the most crucial role for most car buyers to decide which vehicle to opt for. The Dzire is available in two variants – VXi and ZXi. The prices range from Rs 8.74 lakh to Rs 9.84 lakh, ex-showroom. On the other hand, the Hyundai Aura CNG comes in three trims – E, S and SX. The prices start at Rs 7.49 lakh and go all the way up to Rs 9.05 lakh, ex-showroom. Hence, the Aura has a clear edge although the Dzire is an all-new model.

Maruti Dzire CNG vs Hyundai Aura CNG – Specs and Mileage

Let us see which powertrains propel the CNG versions of these two attractive compact sedans. The new Maruti Dzire shares its engine and transmissions with the latest Swift. Hence, the CNG avatar possesses a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z12E naturally aspirated petrol mill which churns out a decent 70 PS and 102 Nm of peak power and torque. There is a sole 5-speed manual transmission with this engine. However, the biggest talking point is the incredible mileage of a jaw-dropping 33.73 km/kg. These are class-leading numbers when it comes to the fuel economy.

On the other hand, the Hyundai Aura draws power from a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder mill which is capable of producing a healthy 69 PS and 95.2 Nm of peak power and torque. This engine pairs with a 5-speed manual gearbox too. Hence, the Dzire has a slight edge in the specifications. The mileage revolves somewhere around 22 km/kg as per some media outlets. In essence, both these cars offer an almost similarly specced CNG version.

Maruti Dzire CNG vs Hyundai Aura CNG – Features and Safety

In this modern era, equipping cars with the latest tech, convenience, comfort and safety amenities has almost become necessary. Modern car buyers want their new vehicles with the absolute top gadgets and gizmos. In fact, that can be a major factor in buying a particular car. Recognizing this growing trend, car companies offer all the bells and whistles in their cars. First, let us start with the 5-star Global NCAP safety-rated Maruti Dzire CNG:

• 7-inch Infotainment Display with SmartPlay Pro
• Onboard Voice Assistant via “Hi Suzuki”
• Over-the-Air (OTA) System Upgrades Using Smartphones
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Auto AC
• Rear AC Vents
• Wireless Charger
• 60:40 Split Rear Seat
• Rear USB Ports
• Rear Wiper & Washer
• Adjustable Rear Seat Headrests
• 6-Speaker Audio System
• Luggage Room Lamp
• Electronic Stability Control
• 6 Airbags
• Hill Hold Assist
• ABS with EBD
• Electrically Foldable and Adjustable ORVMs
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Engine Push Start/Stop Button w/ Smart Key
• Alexa Skill Connectivity
• Smartwatch Connectivity
• Rear USB Ports
• Steering-Mounted Audio Control

On the other hand, even the Hyundai Aura possesses all the latest amenities to pamper the customers. The main highlights are:

• 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Voice Recognition
• 3.5-inch MID
• Steering-Mounted Controls
• USB Charging
• Smart Key with Push Button Start/Stop
• Manual AC with Rear AC Vents
• Power Adjustable and Foldable ORVMs
• Cooled Glovebox
• Driver Seat Height Adjustment
• Adjustable Rear Headrests
• Footwell Lighting
• 6 Airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Rear Camera with Statis Guidelines

Maruti Dzire CNG vs Hyundai Aura CNG – Exterior Design and Dimensions

I must admit the new Maruti Dzire looks nothing like the outgoing model. It becomes apparent as soon as one watches it from the outside. The front section contains a massive grille with horizontal elements with a chrome belt integrated between the sleek LED headlamp units. The LED DRLs are also inserted inside the headlamp module. Down below, we get to experience the fog lamps and a sporty bumper. On the sides, the new Dzire boasts 15-inch elegant alloy wheels and a chrome strip around the window frames for that added premium appeal. Finally, the tail section consists of a shark fin antenna, and tri-arrow LED taillamps connected by a thick chrome bar which runs the width of the boot lid. I particularly like the integrated spoiler on the boot. All in all, it is refreshing to see the Dzire in this new guise.

On the other hand, the Hyundai Aura is based on the Grand i10 Nios. This means it gets an attractive fascia with plenty of flowing elements. This includes a striking LED headlamp cluster connecting to the other end via a black section. Down below, the lower end gets LED DRLs which double up as fog lamps along with a prominent grille on a sporty bumper. This part defines the fascia of the sedan. Moving down the sides showcases black elements around the window frame and oozes sportiness while the stylish alloy wheels accentuate the charm of the side profile. Finally, the tail end carries a dedicated spoiler on the boot lid with a connected LED taillamp cluster along with a contoured bumper to lend an imposing stance. Both these cars have their individual appearances.

My View

These are mighty compelling sedans, among the best in this segment. Choosing between these two really depends on your personal preference. Both these companies offer incredibly dense service and sales networks across the country. Apart from that, the features and specifications are also comparable. In the current avatars, the Dzire has a massive edge in terms of mileage. Note that people opt for CNG cars to experience low running costs. In that regard, the new Dzire certainly has a huge advantage. Anyway, I would advise our readers to visit their nearest showrooms to feel these cars in the flesh. In any case, you can’t go wrong with either of these impressive products. I am sure that things will get even more competitive once the Hyundai Aura is updated.

Also Read: First Real-Life Accident of New Maruti Dzire, See Results