Maruti Baleno CNG AMT launched at Rs 8.32 lakh — Price, mileage, specs
- 1Maruti has launched the Baleno CNG AMT at a starting price of Rs 8.32 lakh
- 2CNG-AMT uses the Z12E, 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed AMT
- 3It produces 70hp and 102Nm, identical to the petrol-MT configuration's output
Maruti Suzuki has introduced the automatic S-CNG version of the Baleno under its new Auto Green Mission. The initiative brings AMT gearboxes to three of Maruti's popular S-CNG models: the Swift, Dzire and Baleno. The Baleno CNG AMT is priced from Rs 8,32,400, ex-showroom.
Maruti Baleno CNG AMT prices and variants
The Maruti Baleno CNG AMT is available in the Delta and Zeta variants, with prices starting at Rs 8,32,400. The CNG AMT costs Rs 40,000 more than the equivalent CNG manual variant in both trims. The Delta CNG MT is priced at Rs 7,92,400, while the Delta CNG AMT costs Rs 8,32,400. Similarly, the Zeta CNG MT costs Rs 8,92,400, while the Zeta CNG AMT is priced at Rs 9,32,400.
| Variant | Petrol MT | Petrol AMT | CNG MT | CNG AMT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sigma | Rs 5,98,900 | - | - | - |
| Delta | Rs 6,99,900 | Rs 7,49,900 | Rs 7,92,400 | Rs 8,32,400 |
| Zeta | Rs 7,99,900 | Rs 8,49,900 | Rs 8,92,400 | Rs 9,32,400 |
| Alpha | Rs 9,09,900 | Rs 9,59,900 | - | - |
| Alpha (O) | Rs 9,49,900 | Rs 9,99,000 | - | - |
The CNG AMT costs Rs 40,000 more than the CNG MT in both Delta and Zeta variants. This makes the automatic option a relatively straightforward upgrade for buyers who want CNG's lower running costs but prefer not to use a manual gearbox.
Maruti Baleno CNG AMT engine and mileage
Under the hood, the Baleno's new CNG-AMT uses the Z12E, 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder engine, the same unit already powering the CNG-manual version, now paired with a 5-speed automated manual transmission. In CNG mode, the engine produces 70hp and 102Nm, matching the output of the petrol-MT configuration despite running on a different fuel.
On fuel efficiency, the CNG-AMT is actually the more frugal of the two Baleno CNG options, with a claimed figure of 34.47 km per kg, which works out to 0.86 km/kg higher than the CNG-manual version. The figure has been certified under Rule 115 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The Baleno gets a 37-litre petrol tank and a 55-litre CNG tank, allowing it to run on either fuel.
How the AGS transmission works
The CNG version of the Baleno uses Maruti's Auto Gear Shift (AGS) transmission, which is an automated manual transmission (AMT). The 5-speed gearbox changes gears automatically, so there is no need to use a clutch pedal in regular driving.
Drivers can also shift gears manually when they want more control. The system is designed to make driving easier in traffic while retaining the fuel efficiency benefits of the S-CNG powertrain.
Maruti Baleno CNG AMT safety and technology
Maruti says every S-CNG vehicle is tested at its Research & Development facility for safety, performance, durability and fuel efficiency. The system uses an Intelligent Injection System to maintain the required air-fuel ratio.
The CNG system uses stainless steel pipes and joints to reduce the risk of corrosion and leakage. Integrated Wire Harnesses help prevent short circuits, while a Microswitch prevents the engine from starting while CNG refuelling is in progress. The Baleno CNG AMT also gets Idle Start Stop (ISS) technology, which switches off the engine during suitable stops in traffic and restarts it when required. This helps reduce fuel consumption in stop-and-go conditions.
Why Maruti is expanding its S-CNG lineup now
Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said customers are increasingly looking for automatic cars that can also offer good fuel efficiency. He added that the Auto Green Mission is aimed at offering both features through the Swift, Dzire and Baleno.
Maruti has also seen strong demand for its S-CNG models. The company recorded a 58% year-on-year increase in S-CNG sales during the first quarter of the year. July also saw its highest-ever monthly S-CNG sales at 83,000 units. With the Baleno now joining the Swift and Dzire with an automatic S-CNG option, Maruti is expanding the choice for buyers who want CNG's running-cost benefits along with the convenience of an automatic gearbox.
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