Maruti Suzuki India Limited has officially kicked off its new Auto Green Mission, introducing automatic S-CNG variants for three of its most popular models: the Swift, Dzire, and Baleno. Aimed at modern drivers looking for clutch-free city driving without sacrificing fuel economy, the new lineup brings the convenience of an automatic transmission to the company’s factory-fitted CNG range.
Pricing and Model Range
The new automatic S-CNG range is priced as follows (ex-showroom starting prices in Indian Rupees):
- Maruti Suzuki Swift Automatic S-CNG: ₹7,92,400
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno Automatic S-CNG: ₹8,32,400
- Maruti Suzuki Dzire Automatic S-CNG: ₹8,53,100
Market Demand and Environmental Push
According to Maruti Suzuki, customer demand for eco-friendly vehicles has been surging across India. During the first quarter of this year, the manufacturer recorded a 58% increase in S-CNG vehicle sales compared to the same period last year. That momentum peaked in July, when the brand achieved its highest-ever monthly S-CNG sales figure of 83,000 units.
Speaking on the launch, Mr Partho Banerjee noted that urban drivers are increasingly seeking the ease of an automatic gearbox to navigate congested city traffic without missing out on performance or fuel efficiency. He highlighted that adding automatic S-CNG options to top-selling models like the Swift, Dzire, and Baleno will directly support the growing market share of green vehicles in India.
Engine Performance and Transmission Details
All three automatic S-CNG models—the Swift, Dzire, and Baleno—are powered by Maruti Suzuki’s Advanced Z12E 1.2L engine, featuring Dual Variable Valve Timing (Dual VVT) and Idle Start Stop (ISS) technology.
- Engine: Advanced Z12E 1.2-litre petrol engine with S-CNG technology
- Transmission: 5-speed Auto Gear Shift (AGS / Automated Manual Transmission)
- Driving Convenience: Clutch-less two-pedal operation with an intelligent actuating unit, plus a manual mode option for drivers who prefer manual gear selection without a clutch pedal.
- Fuel Efficiency Highlight: The Dzire automatic S-CNG delivers a fuel-efficiency rating of 36.47 km/kg, making it India’s most fuel-efficient sedan.
S-CNG and AGS Technology Features
Developed and tested at Maruti Suzuki’s R&D facility, the S-CNG system incorporates several key safety and efficiency features:
- Intelligent Injection System: Optimises the air-fuel ratio for better performance and mileage.
- Safety Construction: Uses stainless steel pipes and leak-proof joints to prevent corrosion and gas leakage.
- Integrated Wiring & Microswitch: Employs integrated wire harnesses to avoid short-circuiting, alongside a safety microswitch that prevents the engine from starting while CNG fuel is being refilled.
- Idle Start Stop (ISS): Conserves fuel during heavy traffic stops while enabling quick, quiet engine restarts.
