Maruti Swift CNG vs Baleno CNG

CNG is an important powertrain in the context of low running costs and the Maruti Swift CNG is the latest entrant into our market

In this post, I am comparing the Maruti Swift CNG and Maruti Baleno CNG in terms of specs, design, features, safety and prices. Now both these are Maruti Suzuki products. That makes things quite interesting. The Swift is in its 4th-generation avatar currently. It is a new model which was launched in India just a couple of months ago. Finally, its CNG trim has also been launched. On the other hand, the Baleno is a premium hatchback. In fact, it is the highest-selling vehicle in its class. Even it comes in a CNG guise. Let us take a look at the details of each of these here.

Maruti Swift CNG vs Baleno CNG – Price

Let us commence with the most critical aspect of this comparison – the price. Maruti Swift CNG ranges from Rs 8.20 lakh to Rs 9.20 lakh, ex-showroom. It is available in three trims – VXi, VXi (O) and ZXi. That makes it fairly well spread out to ensure that buyers get a decent choice. On the other hand, the Maruti Baleno CNG comes in just two trim – Delta and Zeta. These bear a retail sticker of Rs 8.40 lakh and Rs 9.33 lakh, ex-showroom, respectively. Hence, the prices are extremely close considering the fact that the Baleno is a larger vehicle than the Swift.

Maruti Swift CNG vs Baleno CNG – Specs

Maruti Swift CNG has a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated bi-fuel mill which is good for 69.75 PS and 101.8 Nm of peak power and torque. This engine pairs with the sole 5-speed manual transmission. Note that this is the new engine launched with this new Swift. However, in the CNG mode, the company claims a jaw-dropping mileage figure of 32.85 km/kg. That is what sets it apart from the rest of the field. People looking for cars with low running costs get drawn towards this instantly.

On the other hand, the Maruti Baleno CNG gets a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol + CNG engine which makes a useful 77.5 PS and 98.5 Nm of peak power and torque. With the CNG trim, there is a sole 5-speed manual gearbox on offer. Remember, the Baleno gets the K Series engine which also powered the last-gen Swift. Interestingly, it boasts a healthy mileage of 30.61 km/kg. That is quite comparable to the Swift. Therefore, the Baleno is slightly more powerful but has slightly less fuel economy. That is due to its larger dimensions and weight.

Maruti Swift CNG vs Baleno CNG – Features

In terms of the in-cabin amenities, both these vehicles are quite impressive. But that has become a necessity in this modern age where customers want the latest tech and functionalities in their cars. Cars have become gadgets these days and carmakers are evolving accordingly. For starters, let us glance at the details of the latest Maruti Swift CNG:

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

On the other hand, since Baleno is a premium hatchback, even it offers loads of tech and comfort functions including the likes of:

• 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display with SmartPlay Pro
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Onboard Voice Assistant via “Hi Suzuki” Command
• OTA (Over-the-Air) Updates
• 6-Speak Audio System
• MID for Driver’s Instrument Cluster with TFT Colour Display
• Front Sliding Centre Armrest
• 60:40 Split Rear Seats
• Front Footwell Lamp
• Suzuki Connect App with Tons of Connected and Remote Functions
• Smartwatch Connectivity
• Alexa Skill Connectivity
• LED Projector Headlamp
• Rear AC Vents
• Rear Fast Charging USB
• Driver Seat Height Adjustment
• Electrically Foldable and Adjustable ORVMs
• Automatic Climate Control
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel

Safety

We know how conscious car buyers in India have become in recent years. They often take into consideration the safety ratings and equipment on offer while purchasing a new car. That is also the reason why there are so many cars in our market today with full NCAP scores. Additionally, India has set up its indigenous crash test agency, Bharat NCAP, to reward safety ratings to cars manufactured here. Firstly, here are the top safety features of the new Swift:

• 6 Airbags
• Hill Hold Assist
• ABS with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

On the other hand, even the Baleno, in its second-from-top trim comes with some useful safety amenities including:

• 6 Airbags
• Electronic Stability Program
• Hill Hold Assist
• Rear View Camera
• 3-Point ELR Seat Belts for All Passengers
• ISOFIX Child Seat Anchorages

Design and Dimensions

Now, let us briefly discuss how these two look and what their dimensions are. The new Swift bears a modern-age styling with a revised front end which incorporates a large radiator grille, a prominent LED headlamp cluster with integrated LED DRLs, a Suzuki logo on the bonnet and a rugged bumper. On the sides, it gets elegant alloy wheels, black side pillars and black ORVMs. Interestingly, the door handles for the rear doors have been shifted to their traditional position from C-pillars. At the rear, it gets LED taillamps, a shark fin antenna and a solid bumper. All in all, the Maruti Swift certainly bears a sporty stance and an attractive road presence.

On the other hand, the Baleno also has an imposing road presence. At the front, there is a prominent grille which has a chrome slab running underneath it. On the sides, there are LED headlamps with neatly integrated chrome slab. On the extreme edges of the bumper, you will find the fog lamps. In the lower section, the bumper is contoured and oozes a sporty vibe. On the sides, there are elegant 16-inch alloy wheels with a chrome window frame and black ORVMs. Finally, the rear profile consists of a roof-mounted spoiler, a thick chrome slab on the boot lid, LED taillamps and a sporty bumper. Now appearances are subjective and you could opt for the one you like better.

Our View

It might be a bit confusing to make a choice between these two immensely compelling Maruti Suzuki products. On the one hand, the Swift is the newer of the two. It bears a sporty appearance with tons of modern-day amenities. It is slightly more affordable even though the difference isn’t that much. On the other hand, the Baleno is the larger of the two and is more practical. I feel the price gap is justified as you get a larger car with an incremental increase in the price. In essence, you can visit your nearest Maruti Suzuki showroom and test drive both of these to experience how they feel. It is practically impossible to go wrong with either of these.

Also Read: Maruti Swift CNG vs Tata Altroz CNG – What To Buy?