Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG

Choosing a new car in India is a big decision, right? You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, how much it will cost to run every month, the latest features it offers, and of course, the company’s service network. Finding a car that ticks all these boxes can be tough, but what if there was an option that gets really close, especially if you're looking for an affordable, feature-packed, and fuel-efficient ride? Today, we’re taking a close look at a popular choice that’s making waves for many reasons: the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG. This compact hatchback from Hyundai promises a great blend of style, comfort, and economy, making it a strong contender for your next car. Let's dive in and see if the Grand i10 Nios CNG is the perfect match for you!

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG is its reliable and efficient engine.

• Engine Type: 1.2L Kappa Dual VTVT Petrol with CNG kit
• Displacement: 1197 cc
• Max Power (on CNG): 69 PS (Pferdestärke) at 6000 rpm
• Max Torque (on CNG): 95.2 Nm (Newton-meter) at 4000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual
• Fuel Type: Petrol & CNG
• Mileage (CNG): Approximately 27-28 km/kg (ARAI certified) – making it a very fuel-efficient car.

Design Overview

Exterior

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios boasts a modern and attractive design that stands out in city traffic. It features a cascade design grille, projector headlamps (in higher variants, but the shape is similar), and stylish LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The overall look is sporty yet sophisticated, giving it a premium feel for a hatchback. The clean lines and compact dimensions make it perfect for zipping through crowded Indian roads and parking in tight spots.

Interior

Step inside the Nios Magna CNG, and you are greeted by a well-laid-out and practical cabin. The dual-tone interior theme adds to the premium feel. Though it's a compact car, the cabin feels airy and offers decent space for four adults. The seats are comfortable, and the dashboard design is ergonomic, putting all controls within easy reach. The quality of materials used feels robust, typical of Hyundai's commitment to a good cabin experience.

Key Features (Magna CNG)

Even in the Magna CNG trim, the Grand i10 Nios comes packed with essential features for a comfortable and convenient drive:

• Infotainment System: An integrated 2-DIN music system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB, and Aux-in.
• Steering Mounted Controls: For audio and phone calls.
• Manual AC: Efficient cooling for the Indian climate.
• Front & Rear Power Windows: For convenience.
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs: Outside Rear View Mirrors for easy adjustment.
• Driver Seat Height Adjust: To find your perfect driving position.
• Rear AC Vents: A crucial feature for rear passenger comfort, especially in a compact car.
• Cooled Glove Box: Keeps your drinks and snacks cool.

Please note: Features like a large 8-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, sunroof, or 360-degree camera are typically found in higher variants of the Grand i10 Nios, not in the Magna CNG trim.

Ground Clearance

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios offers a ground clearance of approximately 165 mm. This is adequate for handling most Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and minor undulations, without scraping the bottom.

Boot Space

For the CNG variant, the boot space is significantly impacted by the CNG cylinder. While the petrol variant offers around 260 litres, the Grand i10 Nios CNG provides a usable boot space of about 60-80 litres. This is enough for a couple of soft bags or a small carry-on, but larger luggage will require using the rear seats.

Dimensions

Here are the key dimensions of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios:

• Length: 3815 mm
• Width: 1680 mm
• Height: 1520 mm
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

Apart from the 1.2L Kappa petrol with CNG, the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios also comes with other powertrain choices:

• 1.2L Kappa Petrol: Available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission).
• 1.2L Kappa Petrol + CNG: Available only with a 5-speed manual transmission (the focus of our review).

Safety Features

Hyundai prioritizes safety, and even the Magna CNG trim comes with essential safety features:

• Dual Airbags: For driver and front passenger.
• ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for better braking control.
• Rear Parking Sensors: To assist with parking.
• Seatbelt Reminder: For all occupants.
• High Speed Alert System: Warns the driver at certain speeds.
• Child Seat Mounts (ISOFIX): In higher variants, but good to check if your specific Magna model includes it, as features can vary slightly.

NCAP Rating

Safety ratings are very important for Indian car buyers. Here’s a look at the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios's NCAP performance:

Test Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP (2020)	2 Stars	2 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Not yet tested	Not yet tested

It's worth noting that the Global NCAP test was conducted in 2020 under older protocols. Modern safety standards and features are constantly evolving.

Rivals of Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG

The Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG faces tough competition in the Indian market. Its key rivals include:

• Maruti Suzuki Swift CNG: A very popular choice with excellent mileage and widespread service.
• Tata Tiago CNG: Known for its strong build quality and competitive pricing.
• Maruti Suzuki Baleno CNG: Offers more space and features but is in a slightly higher segment.
• Hyundai Aura CNG: Essentially the sedan version of the Nios, offering a larger boot and similar mechanics.

How is the Car? Pros & Cons

To give you a balanced view, here are the advantages and disadvantages of the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG:

Pros

• Excellent Fuel Efficiency: The biggest draw for CNG cars, offering very low running costs.
• Refined Engine: The 1.2L Kappa engine is known for its smooth operation and decent performance, even with CNG.
• Good City Driveability: Compact size and light controls make it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
• Hyundai's Reliability & Service Network: Hyundai has a strong reputation for reliable cars and an extensive service network across India.
• Feature-Rich Cabin (for its segment): Even the Magna variant offers practical features like rear AC vents and a cooled glove box.
• Modern Design: Attractive exterior and well-appointed interior give it a premium feel.

Cons

• Limited Boot Space: The CNG cylinder takes up most of the boot, severely limiting luggage capacity.
• Power Drop on CNG: While good, there is a noticeable drop in power when running on CNG compared to petrol.
• Limited Variant Options for CNG: CNG is not available across all variants, limiting feature choices.
• No Automatic Transmission: The CNG variant only comes with a manual gearbox.
• NCAP Rating: The 2-star Global NCAP rating from 2020 might be a concern for some safety-conscious buyers, though safety features are standard.
• CNG Refueling Infrastructure: While improving, CNG pump availability can still be a concern in some regions.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG emerges as a very strong contender for anyone looking for a stylish, feature-loaded, and incredibly fuel-efficient hatchback in India. It beautifully blends Hyundai's signature design language with practical features and the economic benefits of CNG. While the limited boot space and a slight power drop on CNG are points to consider, its overall package – including a refined engine, comfortable cabin, and Hyundai's trustworthy service – makes it a compelling choice for daily city commutes and budget-conscious families. If you're after low running costs without compromising too much on features and style, the Grand i10 Nios Magna CNG definitely deserves a test drive. It's a smart, practical, and enjoyable car that could easily be your next perfect ride!