Seeing the growing demand for CNG and electric vehicles, Hyundai & Kia are also planning to introduce multiple new CNG cars in the Indian market. The Korean automakers will introduce the CNG versions of its popular compact SUVs and MPV in the country.
Kia Sonet CNG
The Korean automaker, Kia has started testing the CNG version of the Sonet sub-4 meter SUV in India. It will be powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, as the test mule had GT and T-GDi badges. The Sonet CNG will come paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The regular 1.0L turbo engine produces 118bhp and 172Nm of torque. The Sonet CNG will receive a marginal drop in power and torque output. It will rival against the soon-to-be-launched new Maruti Brezza, which will also be offered with a factory-fitted CNG kit.
Hyundai Venue CNG
Similar to the Kia Sonet CNG, the Hyundai Venue compact SUV will also receive a factory-fitted CNG kit. It is likely to be offered in the same powertrain configuration as the Sonet CNG. The small SUV will receive the 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a factory-fitted CNG kit. The vehicle will offer slightly less power and torque compared to the regular variant.
Kia Carens CNG
Kia has also started testing the CNG version of the Carens three-row MPV in the Indian market. Going by the spy images, it is visible that Kia has opted for the 1.4L turbo petrol for the CNG option. The vehicle is also offered with the 1.5L NA petrol engine; however, this engine could prove to be underpowered for 6-7 passengers along with luggage.
The 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine produces 140PS and 242Nm of torque. With a factory-fitted CNG kit, the powertrain is expected to produce less power and torque. A 6-speed manual gearbox will come as standard.
