With the push towards greener mobility, car buyers are increasingly looking at alternative fuel options like CNG and electric vehicles (EVs). Among the popular choices in India, the Tata Tiago comes in both CNG and EV variants. While both offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, the big question remains: which one has the lower running cost?
To find the answer, we conducted a real-world cost analysis by driving both versions over a 150 km test route, covering city and highway conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about their performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Tata Tiago CNG vs Tata Tiago EV: Performance & Specifications
Before diving into running costs, let’s first take a look at the engine, battery, and powertrain specifications of both models.
Tata Tiago CNG Specifications
- Engine Type: 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol + CNG
- Power Output: 75.5 PS
- Torque: 96.5 Nm
- Transmission Options: 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT) / 5-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)
- Fuel Efficiency: Tata Motors has not officially disclosed fuel efficiency figures for both variants.
Tata Tiago EV Specifications
The Tata Tiago EV is available with two battery pack options, each paired with an electric motor powering the front axle.
| Battery Pack | 19.2 kWh | 24 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 61 PS | 75 PS |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Claimed Range (MIDC Part 1+2) | 223 km | 293 km |
For our test, we used the Tata Tiago EV with the larger 24 kWh battery pack, as it offers better range and performance.
Real-World Running Cost Test
To determine which car is more cost-effective, we drove both the Tiago CNG and Tiago EV for 150 km on a mix of city and highway roads. Afterward, we refilled the CNG and recharged the EV, calculating the total cost per kilometer for both vehicles.
Cost Per Kilometer Analysis
| Model | Cost Per Kilometer |
| Tata Tiago CNG | ₹3.78 per km |
| Tata Tiago EV | ₹1.60 per km |
Key Findings:
- The Tata Tiago EV costs ₹2.18 less per km compared to the Tiago CNG.
- The EV offers a significantly lower running cost, making it more affordable for daily commuting.
- However, the initial price difference between the two models is substantial, meaning the cost savings take time to offset.
Price Comparison: Tata Tiago CNG vs Tata Tiago EV
| Model | Price Range (Ex-Showroom, India) |
| Tata Tiago CNG | ₹6.00 lakh – ₹8.75 lakh |
| Tata Tiago EV | ₹7.99 lakh – ₹11.14 lakh |
The top-end Tata Tiago EV costs ₹2.39 lakh more than the CNG variant, which is a crucial factor in long-term affordability.
Break-Even Analysis: Is The Tiago EV Worth It?
Even though the running cost of the Tiago EV is significantly lower, the higher upfront cost raises concerns. Based on our calculations:
- The price difference of ₹2.39 lakh would take nearly 10 years to recover (assuming 15,000 km/year usage).
- If electricity costs rise or CNG prices stabilize, the break-even period could be longer.
- The EV has lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, offering long-term savings.
Which One Should You Buy?
Buy Tata Tiago CNG If:
- You have budget constraints and want a lower upfront cost.
- You drive primarily in areas where CNG is easily available.
- You don’t mind slightly higher running costs compared to EVs.
Buy Tata Tiago EV If:
- You want a lower running cost and long-term savings.
- You have access to home charging or nearby charging stations.
- You prefer a smoother, quieter drive with better acceleration.
FAQs:
1. Is the Tata Tiago EV cheaper to run than the Tiago CNG?
Yes, the Tata Tiago EV has a lower running cost at ₹1.60 per km compared to ₹3.78 per km for the Tiago CNG. However, the EV’s higher initial cost requires a longer ownership period to break even.
2. How long does it take to charge the Tata Tiago EV?
- DC Fast Charger: 10-80% charge in about 58 minutes.
- Home AC Charger: Full charge in 6-7 hours.
3. Which is better for long-distance travel: Tata Tiago CNG or Tata Tiago EV?
The Tiago CNG is better for long distances due to the widespread CNG refueling network, while the Tiago EV’s range is limited to 293 km per charge.
4. How much does it cost to fully charge the Tata Tiago EV?
The cost depends on electricity rates, but charging the Tiago EV (24 kWh battery) typically costs ₹120-₹150 per full charge.
5. Does the Tata Tiago EV require less maintenance than the CNG version?
Yes, the Tiago EV has fewer moving parts and requires less maintenance compared to the Tiago CNG, which has an internal combustion engine.
