Renault has finally introduced CNG options for its popular models – the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber. This move is aimed at catering to budget-conscious buyers who are looking for fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives. However, there’s a small catch. Unlike other automakers that offer factory-fitted CNG kits, Renault’s CNG kits will be retrofitted by authorized vendors or dealerships. Let’s take a deeper look at what this means for buyers and how it impacts the performance and pricing of these vehicles.
CNG Kit Availability and Pricing
Renault’s decision to introduce CNG options for the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber is a welcome move, but it does come with additional costs. Since these kits are not OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fitted, they will be installed by authorized dealers. The CNG kits will be available for all variants that feature a naturally aspirated engine paired with a manual gearbox. Here’s a breakdown of the price difference:
| Model | Price Range Without CNG | Price Range With CNG | Difference |
| Renault Kwid | Rs 4.70 lakh – Rs 6 lakh | Rs 5.45 lakh – Rs 6.75 lakh | Rs 75,000 |
| Renault Triber | Rs 6.10 lakh – Rs 8.46 lakh | Rs 6.90 lakh – Rs 9.26 lakh | Rs 79,500 |
| Renault Kiger | Rs 6.10 lakh – Rs 9.03 lakh | Rs 6.90 lakh – Rs 9.83 lakh | Rs 79,500 |
(All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi.)
The CNG kits currently come with a three-year warranty and will be available in select states, including Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Renault has assured that more states will be added to this list soon.
Performance Figures With CNG
CNG-powered cars are generally more fuel-efficient, but they do see a slight dip in power and torque. Here’s how the naturally aspirated petrol engines of these Renault models perform in standard fuel conditions:
| Model | Engine | Power (Petrol) | Torque (Petrol) |
| Renault Kwid | 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol | 68 PS | 91 Nm |
| Renault Triber | 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol | 72 PS | 96 Nm |
| Renault Kiger | 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol | 72 PS | 96 Nm |
Since the CNG kits are not factory-fitted, their exact impact on performance has not been officially revealed, but power and torque figures are expected to be slightly lower than their petrol counterparts.
What About AMT Variants?
Currently, the CNG option is only available with manual transmission variants of the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber. The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) variants will not get the CNG option. This could be a limitation for those who prefer the convenience of an automatic gearbox but still want the cost benefits of CNG.
Renault Kiger’s Turbo-Petrol Variant – No CNG
It’s important to note that while the Renault Kiger is available with a more powerful 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (100 PS, 160 Nm), this variant does not come with a CNG option. The turbocharged engine is only available with petrol fuel options, leaving the naturally aspirated engine as the sole candidate for CNG compatibility.
Renault Kwid, Kiger, And Triber – Price and Competitors
Let’s take a look at where these models stand in terms of pricing and competition in the Indian market:
Renault Kwid
- Price: Rs 4.70 lakh to Rs 6.45 lakh (Ex-showroom)
- Competes with: Maruti Alto K10, Maruti S-Presso
Renault Triber
- Price: Rs 6.10 lakh to Rs 8.98 lakh (Ex-showroom)
- No direct rivals but serves as a budget alternative to Maruti Ertiga, Maruti XL6, Kia Carens
Renault Kiger
- Price: Rs 6.10 lakh to Rs 11.23 lakh (Ex-showroom)
- Competes with: Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Nissan Magnite
Pros and Cons of Renault’s CNG Options
Pros:
Better fuel efficiency – Lower running costs compared to petrol.
Eco-friendly – Reduced emissions make it a greener alternative.
Affordability – Lower fuel prices make CNG an economical option.
Three-year warranty – Peace of mind with a manufacturer-backed warranty.
Cons:
Not factory-fitted – May impact warranty or resale value.
Limited availability – Initially only offered in select states.
Performance drop – Expected reduction in power and torque.
No AMT option – Only available with manual transmission variants.
Final Thoughts – Should You Consider the Renault CNG Models?
Renault’s decision to offer CNG kits for the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber is a step in the right direction for cost-conscious buyers looking for fuel-efficient options. However, the fact that these kits are not factory-fitted may raise concerns about their long-term reliability and warranty coverage.
If you are in a state where the OEM-approved CNG kits are available and don’t mind manual transmissions, these models could be a good choice for savings on fuel costs. However, if you want a hassle-free, factory-fitted CNG option, you may want to explore Maruti and Hyundai’s CNG offerings, which provide factory-installed kits with full warranty coverage.
For now, Renault’s CNG initiative is a promising one, but with a few limitations. If you’re willing to work around those, these cars can be great budget-friendly options with improved fuel savings!
Would You Consider Buying a Renault CNG Car?
Let us know in the comments if you think Renault’s CNG models are a smart buy or if you’d prefer factory-fitted CNG alternatives from competitors!
