Top 5 Upcoming CNG Cars in India: Which One Should You Buy in 2026?

Rising fuel prices and daily running costs have made CNG cars more relevant than ever in India. But things are changing now. CNG is no longer limited to basic hatchbacks. Automakers are preparing to bring it into premium and feature-loaded SUVs as well.

What’s creating even more buzz is the possibility of automatic transmission with CNG. The Tata Curvv, Renault Gravite, and Hyundai Exter facelift are already generating strong excitement among buyers for the upcoming CNG cars in India. Available in the expected price range of Rs. 6.50 lakh to approximately Rs. 13.50 lakh, these models are set for a new start in the Indian automotive sector.

1. Nissan Gravite CNG | Rs. 6.50 Lakh - 9.50 Lakh (expected) 

The upcoming Nissan Gravite CNG is expected to offer a budget-friendly 7-seater layout for family buyers. Built on the CMF-A+ platform, it offers modular features like the removable third-row seats, creating a boot space of up to 625 litres. Another thing is, it uses a dual-tank setup which will be placed inside the floor, keeping the space as it is.

Specifications	Details
Mileage	23–25 km/kg (Expected)
Transmission	Likely 5-Speed AMT
Power	~90 - 110 PS (Slightly lower than petrol version)
Torque	~130 - 150 Nm
CNG Tank Setup	Single Cylinder

• Exterior Features: Being the only 7-seater CNG car in the segment, it offers several attractive exterior features. The SUV-inspired roof rails with a 50 kg load capacity erases luggage-keeping issues. The LED DRLs and signature Nissan grille enhance the outer appearance. At last, the 182 mm ground clearance gives it an off-roading leverage in rough terrains.

• Interior Features: Inside, you’ll get an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay for immersive infotainment. The 2nd and 3rd-row AC vents with independent control and modular seating simply make the cabin more convenient.
   
• Safety Features: 5-Star rated in Adult-occupancy from GNCAP. Available with 6 Airbags and featuring Hill Start Assist, Traction Control and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

2. Hyundai Exter Facelift | Rs. 7 Lakh - Rs. 9.50 Lakh (expected)

This micro-SUV is expected to feature the same dual-tank CNG technology for saving the internal space. With the wide success of Hyundai Exter, the automaker now plans a transition into the CNG option for a more eco-friendly drivability. The anticipated automatic transmission makes it more convenient for city travels.

Technical Specifications (Expected)

Specifications	Details
Mileage	26–27 km/kg (Expected)
Transmission	5-Speed Manual / 5-Speed Smart Auto AMT
Power	69 PS (CNG mode)
Torque	95 Nm
CNG Tank Setup	Dual-cylinder (Hy-CNG Duo)

• Exterior Features: New H-shaped LED DRLs, updated front bumper with silver skid plates, diamond-cut alloys, and "Exter" branding on the hood.
   
• Interior Features: Semi-digital instrument cluster, dashcam with dual camera, electric sunroof, and new Navy Blue/Grey dual-tone upholstery.
   
• Safety Features: 6 Airbags (Standard), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill Start Assist.

3. Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG | Rs. 9.50 – Rs. 12.50 Lakh (expected)

Well known for its rough-n’-tough stance, the Mahindra XUV 3XO is known for its turbo-petrol engine and sturdy road presence. The expected CNG version will bring in a balance of power, features and lower-running costs.

As manual clutching is now a past, it is very likely to feature Automatic transmission. Everything combined, this upcoming automatic car will be the passion for those demanding heavy performance with higher mileage.

Technical Specifications (Expected)

Specifications	Details
Mileage	24–27 km/kg (Expected)
Transmission	6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AMT
Power	~100–110 PS (CNG mode slightly lower)
Torque	~200 Nm
CNG Tank Setup	Dual-tank arrangement

• Exterior Features: This SUV is expected to feature the largest in-segment sunroof (skyroof), experiencing an outside world inside. The C-shaped LED DRLs, 17-inch dual-tone alloys and aggressive "Infinity" LED tail lamps are the exterior highlights.

• Interior Features: Inside you’re getting a soft touch dashboard, dual-zone climate control and 60:40 split rear seats. Also a boot space of nearly 290 litres adds to the capacity.
   
• Safety Features: 5 Star rated in BNCAP test, 6 airbags as standard, and Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold. Additionally, the Level 2 ADAS (Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist) keeps monitoring everything while you drive stress-free.

4. Kia Sonet CNG | Rs. 10.50 – Rs. 13.00 Lakh (expected)

Being among the most discussed upcoming CNG automatic cars in India, the anticipated Kia Sonet CNG may combine premium features with CNG performance. Although there’s no official confirmation for Sonet’s CNG version, the recent spy testings suggest a strong indication for the launch.

Technical Specifications (Expected)

Specifications	Details
Mileage	20–25 km/kg (Expected)
Transmission	6-Speed iMT (Clutchless) / 7-Speed DCT
Power	~118 PS
Torque	~172 Nm
CNG Tank Setup	Not officially confirmed

• Exterior Features: Kia Signature "Tiger Nose" grille, crown jewel LED headlamps, 16-inch crystal-cut alloys wheels and star-map LED tail lamps.

• Interior Features: 10.25-inch HD touchscreen, Bose premium 7-speaker system give a superior inside tech feel. While the dual-tone leatherette seats give best comfort and an air purifier with virus protection to ensure your health. The 180 litres of boot space removes the space anxiety.
   
• Safety Features: 3 Star rated in Global NCAP test, 6 airbags as standard, Front & Rear parking sensors and Blind View Monitor.

5. Tata Curvv i-CNG | Rs. 11 Lakh - Rs. 13.50 Lakh (expected)

Tata Curvv i-CNG is expected to lead the upcoming CNG cars in India segment when it comes to all-round performance. This coupe-style SUV is designed for buyers who want both style and efficiency. While it is available in petrol, diesel and EV options, the CNG version is also expected to provide similar practicality as other powertrains are providing.

It may feature Tata's twin-cylinder i-CNG technology, which could help retain usable boot space.

Technical Specifications (Expected)

Specifications	Details
Mileage	24–28 km/kg (Expected)
Transmission	6-Speed Manual / 7-Speed DCA (Dual-Clutch)
Power	~120 PS (CNG mode slightly lower)
Torque	~170–225 Nm
CNG Tank Setup	Twin-Cylinder (Under-floor storage)

• Exterior Features: Futuristic outside design with Flush-fitting door handles and connected LED DRLs with welcome animation. The sloping coupe roofline and 18-inch alloy wheels set it apart from others.

• Interior Features: 12.3-inch Cinematic touchscreen, ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof with voice control, and a 4-spoke illuminated steering wheel. The 350 litres huge boot space enables you to carry as much as you want.
   
• Safety Features: 5-star rated in BNCAP test. Comes with 6 Airbags (Standard), Level 2 ADAS and 360-degree 3D camera.

Summing Up

CNG cars are clearly evolving beyond basic mobility in India, especially for daily city commutes and high running usage. While performance may seem slightly lower in the upcoming CNG automatic cars in India, the overall saving often wins in the Indian scenario. Although, budget is one of the top priorities for buyers, these yet-to launch CNG cars also fit-in other requirements as well.

For a premium feel, the Tata Curvv could stand out. Feature lovers may lean toward the Kia Sonet, while family buyers can consider the Nissan Gravite. The Mahindra XUV 3XO may suit those wanting a sporty edge, and the Hyundai Exter remains a safe, usable pick for everyday use.