The Indian passenger vehicle market is significantly expanding its CNG segment with the beginning of factory fitted CNG with automatic transmission. Buyers now get the benefit of fuel savings in CNG while driving automatic, particularly in city traffic.
The two most interesting cars in the under Rs. 9 Lakh price segment are the Maruti Dzire VXI CNG Automatic and Tata Aeris Pure+ CNG Automatic. Both sedans offer a 1.2 ltr petrol engine, a factory fitted CNG and an automatic transmission. Thus, making a sensible option for buyers who want fuel efficiency, practicality and ease of driving.
Which of them offers more value for money?
Overview
| Information | Dzire CNG | Aeris CNG |
|---|---|---|
| Variant | VXI Automatic | Pure+ Automatic |
| Ex-showroom | 8.53 Lakh | 8.29 Lakh |
| Transmission | AGS Automatic | AMT Automatic |
| Brochure | View Brochure | View Brochure |
Dzire CNG vs Aeris CNG: Engine Options
The two cars offer 1.2 ltr 3 cylinder petrol engine with different engine and transmission configurations.
| Information | Dzire VXI CNG | Aeris Pure+ CNG |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2 ltr Z12E Petrol+CNG | 1.2 ltr Revotron Petrol+CNG |
| Displacement | 1197 cc | 1199 cc |
| Max Power | 69 ps @ 5700 RPM | 75 ps @ 6000 RPM |
| Max Torque | 101 Nm @ 2900 RPM | 96.5 Nm @ 3500 RPM |
| Transmission | 5 Speed AGS | 5 Speed AMT |
| ARAI Mileage | 36.47 Km/kg | 28.06 Km/kg |
Dzire CNG vs Aeris CNG: Dimensions
| Information | Dzire VXI CNG | Aeris Pure+ CNG |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1735 mm | 1684 mm |
| Height | 1525 mm | 1532 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 163 mm | 170 mm |
| Boot Space | 180-190 ltr | 220 ltr (Twin- Cylinder) |
| Kerb Weight | 1020 Kg | 1037 Kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Petrol - 37 ltr CNG - 55 ltr | Petrol - 35 ltr CNG - 70 ltr |
Dzire VXI vs Aeris Pure+ : Features Compared
While both vehicles target almost the same buyer profile, there is a distinct difference in the features package.
The Tata Aeris Pure+ comes with many comfort and technology oriented features which makes it a suitable choice for those who want more feature-rich cabin.
The Maruti Dzire VXI, on the other hand, focuses on necessary convenience and everyday features.
| Features | Dzire VXI CNG AGS | Aeris Pure+ CNG AMT |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 7 inch | 8 inch |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Touchscreen Connectivity | USB, Wireless Android Auto & Apple Car play | USB, Wireless Android Auto & Apple Car Play |
| Speakers | 4 | 4 |
| Front Center Armrest | - | Yes |
| Cluster | Analog with MID | Fully Digital |
| Tyre Size | R14 Steel Wheel with Covers | R14 Styled Wheels |
| Headlamps | Halogen Projector | Halogen Reflector |
| ORVM | Elec. Adjust & Foldable | Elec. Adjust Only |
| Rear Defogger | Yes | Yes |
| Rear AC Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | - | Yes |
Verdict
The Maruti Dzire VXI CNG Automatic and the Tata Aeris Pure+ CNG Automatic appeal to customers who wish to buy an affordable CNG Automatic sedan under Rs. 9 Lakh, but both the cars have distinct advantages.
The Maruti Dzire has an edge when the comes to its fuel efficiency. It is thus ideal for those buyers who want lower running costs and travel long distances. However, the Dzire is also widely used by taxi and commercial fleets, which might turn out to be a disadvantage for buyers who want a more exclusive personal car.
On the other hand, the Tata Aeris makes an even better proposition with the combination of its new fresh exterior design, modern styling and safety focused package. Tata Motors also has an early mover advantage in this segment as they introduced the factory fitted CNG automatic sedan earlier than the Dzire. Another advantage is that the Aeris is not a commercial car. In other words, the Dzire is commonly seen as a taxi is most places.
With regard to safety, both cars have their advantages. The Maruti Dzire is scored 5 star safety rating in the Global NCAP testing. On the other hand, Tata Aeris also deserves attention due to its safety equipment and occupant protection. Also Tata Aeris performed extremely well in the internal tests conducted by the Tata Motors.
Also Check: Tata Aeris Intense Testing by Tata Motors
