Maruti Suzuki's new mid-size SUV, the Victoris, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for its CNG variant. Approximately 50% of Victoris customers are opting for the CNG model, highlighting the growing popularity of CNG vehicles in India. The SUV boasts impressive mileage and a well-integrated CNG system.

Key Takeaways

  • The CNG variant of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris has witnessed an unexpected surge in demand.
  • Nearly 50% of Victoris buyers are choosing the CNG model.
  • The market share of CNG vehicles in India has grown to 22%.
  • The Victoris CNG variant offers impressive mileage figures.

New Delhi: The growing popularity of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles in India is now significantly impacting the mid-size SUV segment. Maruti Suzuki's recently launched mid-size SUV, the Victoris, has created a considerable buzz among customers with its CNG variant. Company officials have reported that approximately 50% of the Victoris sales are now coming from its CNG version, a figure that has surpassed initial expectations.

CNG Variant Receives Record Response

Partho Banerjee, an official from Maruti Suzuki, confirmed that the Victoris CNG model has received a response that is "much better than expected." The integrated underbody CNG system offered in the Victoris has been particularly well-received by customers, as it does not compromise the SUV's design or interior space. This practicality, combined with fuel efficiency, is proving to be a major draw for buyers.

Growing Dominance of CNG

This trend is a clear indicator of the rising demand for CNG vehicles across the country. In the Financial Year 2026, the annual sales of CNG-powered passenger vehicles surpassed the 1 million unit mark for the first time. CNG vehicles now hold a market share of approximately 22% in the domestic passenger vehicle market, making it the third most preferred fuel after petrol and diesel. Maruti Suzuki is a key player in this segment, offering a total of 15 CNG cars in its portfolio, and aims to sell 9 lakh CNG vehicles this fiscal year.

Victoris: Price, Mileage, and Features

The ex-showroom price of the Maruti Victoris starts at Rs 10.50 lakh, while its CNG variant begins at Rs 11.50 lakh. The company claims that the petrol variant delivers a mileage of 21 km per litre, whereas the CNG variant offers an impressive mileage of up to 27 km per kilogram. This superior fuel economy is a significant attraction for customers in an era of rising fuel prices.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the overwhelming response to the CNG variant of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris underscores a significant shift in consumer preference towards more economical and environmentally friendly fuel options in the SUV segment. This trend is likely to push other manufacturers to accelerate their CNG offerings.

The success of the Victoris CNG variant is a testament to Maruti Suzuki's understanding of the Indian market and its ability to cater to the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles without compromising on utility.

Did You Know?: India's adoption rate of CNG vehicles is one of the fastest globally, primarily driven by rising petrol-diesel prices and government policies promoting cleaner fuels.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the mileage of the Maruti Victoris CNG variant?
  2. Does the CNG variant of the Victoris affect the SUV's space?