The Exter CNG offers more features while the Punch boasts a 5-star rating and innovative boot design.

The Tata Punch CNG has finally been launched, almost eight months after being showcased at Auto Expo 2023. It is Tata’s fourth model to offer a green fuel alternative and goes head-to-head with the Hyundai Exter, which also offers a CNG option. For those considering between the two smallest CNG SUVs, here is a detailed comparison of their price and specifications:

Price Check

Tata offers the CNG option from the base variant of the Punch, resulting in a lower starting price of around Rs 1 lakh. On the other hand, Hyundai offers the CNG option in just two variants and the top-spec Punch CNG is more expensive by about Rs 70,000.

Engine Specifications

On paper, the Punch CNG offers slightly better performance than the Exter CNG, and both come with a 5-speed manual transmission. Tata has not disclosed the fuel economy of the Punch CNG, but it is expected to be around 25 km/kg. Hyundai claims that its Exter CNG variants can achieve a fuel economy of 27.1 km/kg.

Also Read: Hyundai Grand i10 Nios vs Venue Vs Exter: Price Comparison

Boot Space

Thanks to Tata’s dual-cylinder setup, the Punch CNG offers a generous usable boot space of 210 litres. This allows buyers to go on weekend trips without worrying about luggage space. There are no official figures for the Exter CNG’s boot space, but it can be expected to accommodate slim laptop bags or handbags, and nothing more.

Features

The Punch and Exter CNG versions are equipped with similar features such as projector headlamps, LED DRLs, electric sunroof, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Since Tata offers the CNG option on a higher specification of the Punch, it also gets additional features like a push-button start-stop and auto headlamps. However, even in its mid-spec variants with CNG, the Exter has its advantages in the form of climate control and a larger infotainment unit.

Also Read: Hyundai Exter Gets These 7 Features Over The Tata Punch

Safety Features

Clearly, the Exter offers a more comprehensive safety package compared to the Punch, with six airbags, TPMS, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and vehicle stability management. However, the Punch has proven its safety credentials with a 5-star safety rating from GNCAP.

On paper, the Exter leads in terms of safety features and possibly fuel economy. However, the Punch offers more features in its higher specifications, along with greater boot space and more variants to choose from. A comprehensive road test will provide a better understanding of their real-world performance.

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