Tata Motors’ new Punch i‑CNG gives the sub‑compact SUV segment another interesting twist—offering a genuine bi‑fuel CNG/petrol option without compromising too much on real‑world usability. Here’s a fresh, detailed first look at what this model brings to the table, what works, and where you might need to compromise.
What’s New: CNG That Tries Not to Cramp Space
One of the biggest challenges with CNG conversions is loss of boot space, but Tata seems to have done a clever workaround. The Punch i‑CNG uses a twin‑cylinder CNG tank setup—two 30‑litre cylinders—instead of one big bulky one. These are tucked under the floor of the boot (under the luggage carpet), helping retain usable space.
Because of this placement, spare‑wheel positioning is also reworked and certain design tweaks ensure that visibility, practicality, and rear usability remain reasonable. Still, compared to the petrol Punch, boot space is reduced—210 litres in the CNG version versus more in the regular petrol variant. Autocar India+2HT Auto+2
Key Specs & Powertrain: Performance with Compromise
Under the hood, Punch i‑CNG carries forward the familiar 1.2‑litre, three‑cylinder Revotron engine that powers the petrol Punch.
- Petrol mode: ~86 bhp and ~113 Nm torque.
- CNG mode: Power drops to around 73‑77 bhp and torque to about 97‑103 Nm.
- Transmission: Only a 5‑speed manual is offered. No automatic option for now in the CNG model.
Despite the drop, figures remain decent for city commuting. Tata also promises direct starts in CNG mode (so you don’t need to start in petrol and then switch) and auto‑switching between fuels.
Design, Features & Safety: Keeping the Premium Feel
Tata has made sure Punch i‑CNG retains most of what buyers liked about the petrol Punch, with a few upgrades.
Exterior & Styling:
- The look is nearly identical to petrol Punch, except for “i‑CNG” badging on the tailgate.
- Diamond‑cut 16‑inch alloy wheels, projector headlamps with LED DRLs, black pillars, roof rails etc. give it a rugged SUV‑ish stance.
Interior & Comfort:
- Feature list is strong: 7‑inch touchscreen (Android Auto & Apple CarPlay), digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, height‑adjustable driver’s seat, sunroof (electric, voice‑activated) in upper variants.
- Standard safety features have been beefed up compared to many CNG rivals: six airbags, ABS + EBD, thermal protection, leak detection, a micro‑switch that ensures the engine is cut off during refueling, etc.
Price & Trim Levels: What You Pay and What You Get
Punch i‑CNG is priced from approx ₹ 7.10 lakh to ₹ 9.68 lakh (ex‑showroom, Delhi), depending on trim.
Trim levels include Pure, Adventure (with intermediate features), Accomplished, etc. Higher trims gain more creature comforts, the sunroof, better lighting, etc.
The premium over the petrol versions runs into ₹ 90,000 to ₹ 1,10,000 in many cases. Trade‑off will be whether the fuel savings from CNG and lower running costs compensate for that initial extra cost.
What’s the Competition & Where This Fits
Punch i‑CNG enters the ring where value, features, and running cost matter. Its rivals will include:
- Hyundai Exter CNG
- Maruti Suzuki’s CNG offerings in similar segments (Swift CNG, Grand i10 Nios CNG etc.)
What gives the Punch i‑CNG a strong edge is its “factory‑fitted” i‑CNG tech (not an aftermarket conversion), safety credentials, the twin‑tank layout preserving boot usability, and some premium touches like sunroof (rare in CNG cars), good ground clearance (187 mm) etc.
Pros & Cons: The Trade‑offs
| Pros | Cons / Limitations |
|---|---|
| Usable boot despite CNG tanks underneath the floor | Loss of some space still compared to petrol version (210 litres vs higher) |
| Strong safety features and credible hardware | Power loss in CNG mode; manual gearbox only |
| Feature‑rich trims; sunroof, good tech | Increased up‑front cost over petrol; your savings depend heavily on CNG availability and usage |
| Direct start in CNG mode; auto switch between fuels | May have lower resale value or higher maintenance in some regions; NVH & performance might feel different in CNG mode |
Verdict: Who Should Consider It
If you:
- Do a lot of city driving and can refuel CNG easily in your area
- Want low running costs and fewer fuel price worries
- Like a compact SUV vibe with decent features and decent comfort
- Are okay with slightly lower performance in CNG mode
Then the Punch i‑CNG is a very compelling package.
However, if you prioritize outright performance, long highway drives, or want automatic transmissions, or value maximum boot space, then petrol or even other alternatives might make more sense.
Tata’s Punch i‑CNG is definitely not just another “CNG option”—it looks like a well thought out effort to bring practicality, safety, and some premium feel even in a value segment. If Tata has the pricing right and service/support is strong, it could become a popular choice for many buyers looking for economical yet modern SUVs.
