Introduction
The Indian auto industry is undergoing a green revolution, with growing demand for alternative fuel vehicles due to rising fuel costs and environmental awareness. While electric vehicles (EVs) dominate headlines, CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) has quietly emerged as a practical, affordable, and eco-friendly fuel option for the masses. In this context, Nissan has made a strategic move by launching the Nissan Magnite CNG, its first-ever compact SUV with a factory-fitted CNG kit.
Launched in early 2024, the Nissan Magnite CNG is gaining traction in the sub-₹10 lakh SUV segment. But how does it perform, what does it offer, and is it worth your money in 2025?
Let’s dive deep into this comprehensive review of the Nissan Magnite CNG, covering features, specifications, pricing, mileage, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Overview of Nissan Magnite
Before jumping into the CNG variant, let’s briefly understand the Magnite brand:
- First launched in December 2020, the Nissan Magnite marked the Japanese automaker’s comeback in India.
- Built on the CMF-A+ platform, shared with Renault Kiger, the Magnite is Nissan’s subcompact SUV designed for price-sensitive and urban customers.
- Known for its value-for-money pricing, bold design, and solid features, the Magnite quickly became a hit.
Why a CNG Variant?
Nissan launched the CNG version in response to:
- Rising petrol prices – Crossing ₹100/litre in many cities.
- High EV costs – Many EVs are still too expensive for budget-conscious buyers.
- Increasing CNG infrastructure – Over 5,500 stations and growing across India.
- Urban demand for low running-cost vehicles.
Nissan Magnite CNG: Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder, NA petrol |
| Fuel Type | Bi-fuel (Petrol + CNG) |
| Power Output (CNG Mode) | ~57 PS |
| Torque (CNG Mode) | ~82 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual |
| Mileage (Claimed) | ~23–25 km/kg (CNG) |
| Tank Capacity | ~60 litres (water equivalent) |
| Boot Space (Reduced) | ~250 litres (due to CNG tank) |
Note: These figures may vary slightly based on variant and driving conditions.
Variants and Pricing (Ex-showroom India)
The CNG variant is available in two trims:
| Variant | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Magnite XE CNG | ₹7.19 lakh |
| Magnite XL CNG | ₹7.89 lakh |
This makes it one of the most affordable CNG SUVs in India, undercutting rivals like Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter.
Design and Exterior
From the outside, the CNG variant retains the same bold and youthful design of the regular Magnite:
- Signature octagonal grille
- L-shaped LED DRLs
- Dual-tone roof (optional)
- 16-inch wheels
- Body cladding and roof rails
There’s no major visual difference between the petrol and CNG variants except for the CNG badging on the tailgate and a slightly raised boot floor due to the cylinder.
Interior and Features
Cabin Quality
- All-black or dual-tone interiors depending on variant.
- Premium textured dashboard with gloss accents.
- Decent headroom and legroom for five passengers.
Comfort and Features (XL Trim)
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment (with Bluetooth)
- Steering-mounted controls
- Manual AC
- Rear parking sensors
- Dual airbags
- Power windows
- Electrically adjustable ORVMs
Note: The CNG variants are not offered in higher XV Premium or Turbo trims to keep prices low and avoid performance loss.
Performance and Driveability
The CNG variant uses the 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol engine, not the turbocharged one. In petrol mode, it produces:
- 72 PS power
- 96 Nm torque
In CNG mode, performance dips to around:
- 57 PS power
- 82 Nm torque
While not ideal for highway overtaking, the Magnite CNG handles city commutes efficiently, with smooth power delivery and clutch calibration. Gearshifts are light, and the suspension is tuned for comfort.
Acceleration is slower than petrol, but this trade-off brings massive savings on fuel costs.
Mileage and Running Cost Advantage
With a claimed mileage of 23–25 km/kg, and average CNG price of ₹75/kg (2025 rates), the running cost is just ₹3/km, compared to ₹7–₹8/km for petrol.
Cost Comparison (for 1000 km)
| Fuel Type | Mileage (km/l or kg) | Fuel Cost | Running Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 18 km/l | ₹104/l | ₹5.78/km |
| CNG | 24 km/kg | ₹75/kg | ₹3.13/km |
That’s ~45% savings per month, ideal for ride-sharing drivers, city commuters, and small families.
Safety
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Seatbelt reminders
However, electronic stability control (ESC) and hill start assist are not available in the CNG variants.
Global NCAP crash test rating for the Magnite stands at 4 stars, but the CNG version hasn’t been independently tested yet.
Comparison with Rivals (2025)
| Model | Price Range | CNG Variant Available | Mileage (CNG) | Power (CNG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Magnite | ₹7.19 – ₹7.89 lakh | ✅ Yes | 23–25 km/kg | 57 PS |
| Tata Punch | ₹7.10 – ₹9.68 lakh | ✅ Yes | 26 km/kg | 73 PS |
| Hyundai Exter | ₹6.99 – ₹10.14 lakh | ✅ Yes | 27 km/kg | 69 PS |
| Renault Kiger | ₹6.59 – ₹11.22 lakh | ❌ No | — | — |
Verdict:
- Magnite is cheapest among SUV CNGs.
- Offers better space than Exter.
- Lags in features and mileage slightly vs. Punch and Exter.
Pros and Cons of Nissan Magnite CNG
✅ Pros
- Most affordable CNG SUV in India
- High mileage and low running cost
- Nissan’s solid design and comfort
- Decent space for a compact SUV
- Simple and reliable NA engine
❌ Cons
- No AMT or automatic option in CNG
- Performance drop in CNG mode
- Boot space reduces significantly
- Lacks higher trims and advanced features
Target Buyers
The Magnite CNG is perfect for:
- Urban commuters with high daily running
- Cab drivers and fleet operators
- Budget-conscious buyers
- First-time car buyers seeking SUV feel
- Environmentally conscious consumers
Ownership Experience and Reliability
Initial owner reviews suggest:
- Smooth driving experience in the city
- Refueling is easy with growing CNG networks
- Maintenance cost is slightly higher than petrol but cheaper than diesel or turbo variants
Nissan’s 2-year standard warranty and option for 5-year extended warranty builds confidence.
Should You Buy the Nissan Magnite CNG in 2025?
Buy If You:
- Want an affordable SUV with low running cost
- Prefer Japanese engineering and reliability
- Don’t mind missing out on advanced features
- Need a city-focused commuter
Wait or Avoid If You:
- Want automatic transmission or turbo power
- Need big boot space for travel
- Prefer feature-loaded top trims
Conclusion
The Nissan Magnite CNG is a strategic offering that brings the benefits of a compact SUV and CNG efficiency into one package. While it doesn’t offer thrilling performance or top-end features, it excels in value, practicality, and cost-saving, especially in a time when fuel prices continue to rise.
For those who prioritize savings, city comfort, and SUV styling, the Magnite CNG is among the best options in 2025.
