Mahindra is reportedly preparing to enter the factory-fitted CNG SUV segment with a CNG version of the XUV 3XO. If launched, it would become the company’s first factory-fitted CNG SUV in India.
The upcoming model is expected to use a turbo-petrol engine adapted for CNG, making it different from many conventional CNG offerings. The launch could take place this month, although Mahindra has not officially announced a launch date yet.
The CNG version is expected to retain the XUV 3XO’s existing design and cabin layout, while offering buyers an additional fuel option.
XUV 3XO CNG Expected Price and Engine
The CNG variants of the XUV 3XO could command a premium of around ₹50,000 to ₹80,000 over their corresponding petrol versions. At present, the XUV 3XO is priced between ₹9.15 lakh and ₹17.85 lakh.
The final pricing of the CNG model will be announced by Mahindra at the time of launch.
Under the bonnet, the company is not expected to introduce a completely new engine. Instead, the XUV 3XO CNG could use the existing 1.2-litre, three-cylinder MPFI turbo-petrol engine, adapted to work with CNG technology.
The combination of a turbocharged engine and factory-fitted CNG could give the SUV a distinctive position in its segment. However, Mahindra has not yet revealed the final power and torque figures for the CNG version.
A 6-speed manual gearbox is expected to handle transmission duties. An automatic gearbox is currently unlikely to be offered with the CNG model.
Design, Features and CNG Setup
In terms of styling, the CNG version is expected to remain largely similar to the petrol-powered XUV 3XO. No significant exterior or interior changes are expected specifically for the CNG model.
The CNG variants could also be limited to the mid-level trims, allowing Mahindra to keep the technology within a relatively accessible price range.
The exact configuration of the CNG tank and its impact on available cabin or luggage space has not yet been officially disclosed. More information is expected when Mahindra announces the model and its complete specifications.
Renault-Nissan’s Upcoming SUV Lineup
Alongside Mahindra’s expected CNG SUV, Renault and Nissan are also preparing a major expansion of their SUV portfolio in India. The two companies plan to introduce seven new SUVs over the next 12 months, covering strong-hybrid, CNG, petrol and electric powertrains.
Renault is preparing a strong-hybrid version of the Duster following the SUV’s return to the Indian market. The Duster Hybrid is scheduled to launch on October 17 and is expected to use a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine combined with a strong-hybrid system and a 1.4 kWh battery.
Renault’s sub-4-metre Kiger is also expected to undergo a mechanical update, including a move to the RGEP architecture. The new platform is intended to improve structural strength and provide better packaging for an underbody CNG tank.
A factory-fitted CNG version of the Kiger could be offered with its turbo-petrol engine. The existing turbo-petrol unit produces approximately 100 PS and 172 Nm of torque.
Renault is also developing the larger Boreal, a three-row SUV expected to arrive before the Nissan Tekton 7-seater. Although inspired by the Duster, the Boreal will have a different exterior design and a larger body. Its expected powertrain options include a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.8-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine.
Bridger, Tekton and Magnite CNG Plans
Renault’s Bridger is another upcoming sub-4-metre SUV being developed by the company’s Indian team for global markets. It is being designed as a multi-energy model and could be offered with petrol, turbo-petrol, hybrid, CNG and electric powertrains.
A 1.2-litre engine could be used for the regular petrol and turbo-petrol versions. Renault is also developing a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder hybrid engine based on Miller cycle technology.
Nissan is preparing a three-row version of the upcoming Tekton, with plans to introduce it by the end of the current financial year. The larger SUV will use the same platform but will have additional space to accommodate three rows of seats.
The Tekton 7-seater is expected to use a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine, potentially paired with a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox. The smaller 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine is unlikely to be offered with the seven-seater.
Nissan is also considering a factory-fitted CNG version of the Magnite. Since the Magnite and Kiger share their platform, the Kiger’s transition to the RGEP architecture could potentially enable Nissan to introduce similar CNG technology.
If launched, the Magnite CNG could become Nissan’s first SUV with a factory-fitted CNG kit.
Renault and Nissan are expected to continue sharing platforms and mechanical technology while differentiating their vehicles through exterior styling and design. A similar approach could also be used across other models, including the Duster and Tekton.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on currently available reports and expected product plans. Launch dates, prices, engine specifications, features, transmission options and CNG availability may change before the official announcements. Readers should check the respective manufacturers’ official communications for final and confirmed details.