The Maruti Suzuki Baleno CNG is a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish, fuel-efficient hatchback. With its factory-fitted CNG kit, spacious cabin, and modern features, it’s ideal for urban commuters and small families. This guide covers its price, EMI, loan details, and key considerations for 2025, comparing it to the Tata Nano EV, in a concise 500-600 words.
Why Choose the Baleno CNG?
The Baleno CNG stands out in the premium hatchback segment as the only model with a factory-fitted CNG option, introduced in 2022. Powered by a 1.2L K-Series Dual Jet engine, it produces 76 bhp and 113 Nm in CNG mode, offering an impressive ARAI-certified mileage of 30.61 km/kg. Its sleek design, 360-view camera, Head-Up Display, and six airbags appeal to young buyers. Compared to the Tata Nano EV, a rumored electric hatchback with a 300km range, the Baleno CNG is a proven, cost-effective choice for those prioritizing low running costs over electric tech. The Nano EV’s luxury interior and compact size suit solo commuters, but the Baleno’s larger cabin fits families better.
Price and Variants
The Baleno CNG is available in two variants (ex-showroom, Delhi, as of 2025):
- Delta CNG: ₹8.40 lakh
- Zeta CNG: ₹9.33 lakh
- Alpha CNG (upcoming): ~₹10 lakh (expected)
On-road prices in Delhi range from ₹9.53 lakh (Delta) to ₹10.56 lakh (Zeta), varying by city due to taxes and insurance. The Nano EV’s estimated ₹5-7 lakh ex-showroom price is lower, but its unconfirmed launch (late 2025) and smaller size make the Baleno CNG a more practical buy now.
EMI and Loan Details
For the Baleno Delta CNG (on-road ~₹9.53 lakh, Delhi):
- Down Payment: Typically 10-20% (₹93,000-₹1.91 lakh). Higher down payments lower EMIs. Lenders like ICICI Bank offer up to 100% on-road funding.
- Loan Amount: For ₹9.53 lakh with ₹93,000 down, you’d borrow ~₹8.60 lakh.
- Interest Rate: Ranges from 8.75% to 11.5% annually, depending on credit score (700+ preferred), lender, and tenure. ICICI Bank starts at 9.1%.
- Tenure: 5 years is common, but 1-7 years are available. Shorter tenures increase EMIs but reduce total interest.
- EMI: For a ₹8.60 lakh loan at 10% interest over 5 years, EMI is ~₹17,767/month. For Zeta CNG (~₹10.56 lakh on-road, ₹1.03 lakh down), EMI is ~₹19,677/month. Use calculators on CarDekho or NEXA for precise figures.
Loan Application Tips
- Eligibility: Age 21-65, stable income (salaried/self-employed), and good credit score. Submit KYC (ID, address proof, PAN), income proof (salary slips, ITR), and bank statements.
- Choose Lenders: Compare banks like HDFC, ICICI, or SBI for low rates (8.75%+) and minimal fees (processing, prepayment). Maruti’s Smart Finance offers pre-approved loans.
- Additional Costs: Processing fees (0.5-2% of loan), insurance (~₹29,000 third-party, ₹2,450 own-damage in Mumbai), and late payment penalties apply.
- Tenure Strategy: A 5-year loan balances EMI affordability and interest. For Delta CNG, a 7-year loan lowers EMI to ~₹15,000 but increases interest by ~₹1 lakh vs. 3 years.
Buying Considerations
- Pros: Low running costs (CNG ~₹2-3/km vs. petrol ~₹5-6/km), spacious cabin, 37L fuel tank + 55L CNG cylinder, and reliable after-sales. Features like SmartPlay Pro+ and ABS with EBD add value.
- Cons: CNG reduces boot space, and ride quality is firm at low speeds. Safety concerns persist despite six airbags, unlike the Nano EV’s modern safety suite.
- Vs. Nano EV: The Baleno CNG is available now, cheaper to run, and roomier. The Nano EV’s 300km range and upscale interior suit EV enthusiasts, but its higher charging costs and unconfirmed specs are drawbacks.
Verdict
Priced at ₹8.40-9.33 lakh (ex-showroom), the Maruti Baleno CNG offers unmatched fuel efficiency and features for urban buyers. With EMIs starting at ₹17,767 (5 years, 10% interest), it’s affordable via loans from ICICI or Maruti Finance. Compared to the Tata Nano EV, it’s a safer bet for families needing space and low costs now. Visit NEXA dealers or use online EMI calculators to finalize your purchase in 2025