Tata Altroz iCNG Review: The Smartest and Safest CNG Hatchback – Twin Cylinders, Premium Features, and 5-Star Safety!
The Tata Altroz iCNG marks a significant milestone in the Indian automotive landscape, boldly stepping forward as the country’s first premium hatchback to incorporate an ingenious twin-cylinder CNG layout. This innovative design addresses the long-standing compromise of reduced boot space in CNG vehicles, making the Altroz iCNG a truly practical and desirable option for eco-conscious urban and suburban users. Priced from an ex-showroom ₹ 11,09,000*, the Tata Altroz iCNG is built on Tata’s highly acclaimed ALFA (Agile Light Flexible Advanced) architecture, renowned for its rigidity and safety. This iCNG variant offers a compelling blend of balanced performance, impressive cabin space, and outstanding fuel economy, making it an intelligent choice for families and individuals prioritizing both efficiency and safety in their daily commutes and beyond.
Key Features: Innovation, Safety, and Practicality at its Core
The Tata Altroz iCNG is packed with pioneering features that set it apart in the CNG segment.
1.2L iCNG Engine with Dual Cylinder Technology:
The heart of the Altroz iCNG is its 1.2L Revotron iCNG engine, optimized for dual-fuel operation. The revolutionary twin-cylinder CNG layout places two smaller CNG tanks (each 30L water capacity) under the boot floor, leaving a usable 210L boot space – a best-in-class figure for CNG hatchbacks and a significant advantage over traditional single-cylinder CNG setups. The engine produces 73.5 PS @ 6000 rpm and 103 Nm of torque @ 3500 rpm on CNG.
Dual Fuel System with Auto Switch:
The car seamlessly switches between Petrol and CNG, and can even start directly in CNG mode, offering unparalleled convenience. It comes with a 37L petrol tank and a combined 60L water capacity CNG tank (approx. 10-12kg CNG), ensuring excellent range.
Enhanced Safety Protocols:
Tata has integrated multiple layers of safety specific to the CNG system, including a Micro-Switch for Safe Refueling (engine automatically turns off when the fuel lid is opened), an advanced Leak Detection System, Thermal Protection to prevent overheating, and a Fire Protection System to mitigate risks.
5-Star Global NCAP Safety Rating & Airbags:
Building on the Altroz’s strong foundation, the iCNG variant carries forward the segment-leading 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP for adult occupant protection. It also features dual front airbags as standard, with up to 6 airbags in higher variants, along with ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Premium Interior and Infotainment:
The Altroz is known for its premium cabin, which continues in the iCNG variant. It features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system by Harman (in higher variants) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice-activated electric sunroof, a 7-inch TFT digital instrument cluster, rear AC vents, and a well-appointed interior with quality materials.
16” Alloy Wheels & 360-degree Camera:
The provision of 16-inch alloy wheels (in higher variants) not only enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to better road presence and handling. Higher trims also offer a 360-degree Surround View System (SVS) with Blind View Monitor for enhanced parking and maneuvering ease.
Class-leading 210L Boot Space (in CNG mode):
This is a game-changer for CNG cars, making the Altroz iCNG genuinely practical for family use and luggage, a stark contrast to other CNG hatchbacks. The spare wheel is cleverly mounted underneath the car, preserving boot utility.
Full Specifications Table: Tata Altroz iCNG
Engine & Transmission
- Engine Type: 1.2L iCNG Engine
- Displacement: 1199 cc
- Max Power: 73.5 PS @ 6000 rpm
- Max Torque: 103 Nm @ 3500 rpm
- Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual
- Drive Type: Front-Wheel Drive
Dimensions
- Length x Width x Height: 3990 x 1755 x 1523 mm
- Wheelbase: 2501 mm
- Ground Clearance: 165 mm
- Boot Space (in CNG mode): 210 L
- Min Turning Radius: 5.0 m
- Seating Capacity: 5
Brakes & Suspension
- Front Brakes: Disc
- Rear Brakes: Drum
- Front Suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
- Rear Suspension: Twist Beam with Coil Spring & Shock Absorber
Wheels & Tyres
- Wheel Type: Alloy Wheels (Steel in lower variants)
- Tyre Size: 185/60 R16 Radial Tubeless
- Spare Tyre Size: 165/80 R14
- Wheel Size: 16 inches
Fuel & Tank
- Fuel Type: Petrol + CNG (Dual Fuel)
- Petrol Tank: 37 L
- CNG Tank: 60L Water Capacity (approx. 10-12kg CNG in twin cylinders)
Price & EMI
- Ex-showroom Price: from ₹11,09,000*
- Estimated EMI (60M @9%): ₹23,021/month** (for the listed price; actual EMI varies by variant)
The Driving Experience: Pros and Cons for the Eco-Conscious Urban User
Pros: Why the Tata Altroz iCNG is a Smart Choice
- Innovative Twin-Cylinder CNG Layout: This is the biggest differentiator. By splitting the CNG tanks, it frees up a significant 210 liters of usable boot space, making it vastly more practical than other CNG hatchbacks.
- Best-in-Class Safety with 5-Star Rating: Carries forward the Altroz’s GNCAP 5-star safety rating, making it the safest CNG car available in India, offering unmatched peace of mind.
- Seamless Switching & Direct CNG Start: The ability to start directly in CNG mode and the smooth automatic transition between petrol and CNG modes enhance convenience and user experience.
- Affordable Running Cost & Real-World Mileage: CNG offers significantly lower running costs per kilometer compared to petrol, making it highly economical for daily commutes. Owners report a real-world CNG mileage of around 23-27 km/kg in the city and 30-35 km/kg on highways.
- Premium Interior and Infotainment: The Altroz’s well-designed, feature-rich cabin and advanced infotainment system (in higher variants) provide a comfortable and modern driving environment with features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and voice-activated sunroof.
- Comprehensive CNG Safety Features: Tata has equipped the iCNG system with multiple layers of safety, including leak detection, thermal protection, fire protection, and a micro-switch for safe refueling.
- Good Ground Clearance (165mm) & Ride Quality: Adequate for navigating typical Indian road conditions. The suspension is retuned to handle the additional weight of the CNG tanks, offering a plush and comfortable ride, especially over bad roads, and maintaining good high-speed composure.
- Runs on Both CNG and Petrol: Offers fuel flexibility, ensuring you’re never stranded even if CNG is unavailable.
Cons: Points for Consideration
- Slight Drop in Power Compared to Petrol: While the iCNG engine is refined, there is a noticeable drop in power (73.5 PS vs 87.8 PS for petrol) and torque (103 Nm vs 115 Nm) when running on CNG. This can affect performance during quick overtakes or on inclines, especially above 80 kmph.
- Lower Boot Space Than Petrol/Diesel Variants: While best-in-class for CNG cars, the 210L boot space is still less than the 345L offered by the petrol/diesel Altroz, which might be a factor for users who frequently carry large luggage.
- No Automatic Transmission Option: Currently, the Altroz iCNG is only available with a 5-speed manual transmission. The absence of an AMT or other automatic option can be a drawback for city commuters seeking clutch-free driving.
- Slight Performance Lag on Full Load: When fully loaded with passengers and luggage, the power deficit on CNG might become more apparent, leading to a noticeable performance lag, requiring more frequent gear changes.
- Higher Upfront Cost Than Tiago iCNG: While the Altroz iCNG is premium, its starting price is considerably higher than Tata’s own Tiago iCNG, which might deter budget-focused CNG buyers.
- No Cruise Control: A feature that would enhance comfort on long highway stretches, but is absent in the iCNG variants.
- Engine Refinement on CNG: While generally smooth, some users report the CNG engine can be noisier than petrol at times, and refinement levels could be improved.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Tata Altroz iCNG is an outstanding choice for:
- Eco-conscious Urban and Suburban Family Users: Who prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, and practicality.
- Buyers Seeking Best-in-Class Boot Space in a CNG Car: The twin-cylinder technology makes it uniquely practical for luggage.
- Safety-Focused Individuals and Families: Its 5-star Global NCAP rating provides unmatched peace of mind.
- Those Looking for Premium Features in a CNG Hatchback: Offering a well-appointed interior and advanced infotainment.
- Commuters Desiring Lower Running Costs: CNG offers significant savings on fuel expenses.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
You might consider other options if:
- You Prioritize Spirited Performance: As the CNG mode has a slight power drop compared to petrol variants.
- You Require an Automatic Transmission: As the iCNG variant is currently only available with a manual gearbox.
- You Need Maximum Boot Space: As the 210L boot, while best-in-class for CNG, is still less than petrol/diesel variants.
- You Are on a Very Strict Budget: And find the starting price of the Altroz iCNG higher than other entry-level CNG hatchbacks.
- You Frequently Drive on Highways with Full Load: Where the performance lag on CNG might be more noticeable.
Competitive Edge: What Sets It Apart
The Tata Altroz iCNG distinguishes itself in the Indian CNG hatchback segment with several key advantages:
- Revolutionary Twin-Cylinder CNG Layout: This is its defining feature, offering practical boot space unmatched by rivals.
- Segment-Leading 5-Star Global NCAP Safety Rating: Making it the safest CNG car in India.
- Direct CNG Start and Seamless Auto Switch: Enhancing user convenience and experience.
- Comprehensive CNG-Specific Safety Features: Including leak detection, thermal, and fire protection.
- Premium Hatchback Feel: It retains the Altroz’s premium interior, features, and ride quality, unlike many utilitarian CNG offerings.
Final Verdict: The Smartest, Safest, and Most Practical CNG Car for Modern India
The Tata Altroz iCNG is not just another CNG car; it’s a revolutionary offering that truly redefines the segment. Its innovative twin-cylinder CNG layout addresses the long-standing boot space compromise, making it the most practical CNG hatchback in India for families and everyday utility. Coupled with Tata’s legendary 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, it also stands as the undisputed safest CNG car on the market, offering unparalleled peace of mind. While there’s a slight drop in performance compared to the petrol variant and no automatic transmission option, the Altroz iCNG compensates with exceptionally low running costs, seamless dual-fuel operation, and a host of advanced CNG safety features. Its premium interior, comfortable ride, and smart design further cement its position as a top-tier choice. For eco-conscious urban and suburban family users who are looking for a fuel-efficient hatchback that delivers on safety, practicality, and premium features without compromise on usable boot space, the Tata Altroz iCNG is a standout and highly recommended choice. It’s truly the smartest and safest CNG car in India today.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)