2026 Tata Altroz CNG Manual First Drive Review: Practical, Premium, and City-Smart
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| image credits: carwale.com |
Introduction: First Drive Experience in Real Indian Conditions
CNG cars are usually chosen with the head, not the heart. Over the years, I’ve driven multiple factory-fitted CNG cars, and most of them share the same drawbacks—reduced boot space, sluggish performance, and bare-bones interiors. That’s why the 2026 Tata Altroz CNG Manual stood out during this first drive.
This drive covered city traffic, flyovers, uneven roads, and short highway stretches, exactly where a premium hatchback CNG will spend most of its life. What became clear quickly is that Tata hasn’t treated the Altroz CNG as an afterthought. Instead, it feels engineered from the ground up to balance efficiency, safety, and everyday comfort.
What’s New in the 2026 Tata Altroz CNG?
The 2026 update focuses on refinement and usability, rather than radical changes.
Key Highlights
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Factory-fitted twin-cylinder CNG technology
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Retained usable boot space
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Improved NVH levels
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Strong build quality with 5-star safety pedigree
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Manual gearbox tuned for city driving
Tata continues to position the Altroz as the safest premium hatchback, even in CNG form.
Engine, Gearbox & Performance
Powertrain Details
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Engine: 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol
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Fuel Type: CNG + Petrol
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Power (CNG): ~73 PS
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Torque (CNG): ~103 Nm
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Gearbox: 5-speed manual
On paper, these numbers look modest. On the road, however, the Altroz CNG feels well-calibrated for urban usage.
Driving Feel in the City
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Smooth throttle response
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Linear power delivery
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Minimal lag when switching from petrol to CNG
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Clutch is light and easy to modulate
You won’t mistake it for a turbo-petrol, but for daily commuting, the engine feels predictable and stress-free.
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| image credits: carwale.com |
Ride Quality & Handling: Still an Altroz at Heart
One of the Altroz’s biggest strengths has always been its ride and handling balance, and the CNG variant retains that character.
Suspension & Comfort
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Absorbs potholes well
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Stable over broken patches
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Rear seat comfort remains intact despite CNG setup
Even with the added CNG hardware, the car doesn’t feel unsettled or rear-heavy.
Handling & Stability
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Confident cornering for a hatchback
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Planted feel at 80–100 km/h
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Steering remains predictable
This is one of the best-riding CNG hatchbacks currently on sale.
Interior, Space & Boot Practicality
Cabin Quality
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Premium dashboard layout
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Good seat cushioning
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Solid switchgear feel
The cabin doesn’t feel compromised just because this is a CNG variant.
Twin-Cylinder CNG Advantage
Tata’s twin-cylinder layout is a major win:
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Boot space remains usable
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Flat loading area
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Practical for airport runs and grocery trips
This alone makes the Altroz CNG stand out against rivals.
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| image credits: carwale.com |
Safety & Build Quality
Safety is where the Altroz CNG truly differentiates itself.
Safety Highlights
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5-star Global NCAP rating (Altroz platform)
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Dual airbags (standard)
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ABS with EBD
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Strong body structure
Most CNG buyers don’t prioritise safety — Tata clearly does.
Real-World First Drive Mileage Expectations
Fuel efficiency is the primary reason buyers consider CNG.
Observed / Expected Figures
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City (CNG): ~18–20 km/kg
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Mixed use: ~20–22 km/kg
Driving calmly and shifting early makes a noticeable difference.
Trust Note: These are realistic expectations, not brochure claims.
Real-World Buyer Case Studies
Case Study 1: Daily Office Commuter (Pune)
A petrol hatchback user switching to Altroz CNG appreciated the smoother ride and better interior quality compared to older CNG cars.
Case Study 2: Family Usage (Ahmedabad)
A family buyer valued the retained boot space and solid build for weekend outings.
Case Study 3: Ride-Sharing Driver (Delhi NCR)
A fleet user highlighted lower running costs without sacrificing passenger comfort.
Comparison Table: Premium Hatchback CNG Rivals
| Parameter | Altroz CNG | Baleno CNG | i20 CNG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Rating | 5-Star | Not Rated | Not Rated |
| Boot Space | Usable (Twin Cyl.) | Limited | Limited |
| Ride Comfort | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Build Quality | Strong | Light | Moderate |
| Driving Feel | Balanced | Easy | Refined |
Pros & Cons (Honest Assessment)
Pros
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Best-in-class safety
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Usable boot despite CNG
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Comfortable ride quality
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Premium cabin feel
Cons
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No automatic option
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Performance is functional, not exciting
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Limited feature upgrades in base trims
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Altroz CNG?
The 2026 Tata Altroz CNG Manual proves that a CNG car doesn’t have to feel compromised. It delivers low running costs, strong safety, and genuine everyday usability, all wrapped in a premium hatchback package.
If your priority is economical city driving without sacrificing comfort or safety, this is one of the most sensible choices in the segment.
Conclusion & Call to Action (CTA)
Tata has raised the bar for factory-fitted CNG cars with the Altroz. It’s practical, safe, and well-engineered for Indian conditions.
👉 Would you choose the Altroz CNG over petrol or diesel rivals?
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