Citroen India has introduced a new CNG option for its C3 hatchback—but with a twist. Instead of launching a separate factory-fitted variant, the French automaker is offering the CNG kit as a retrofitment through its authorised dealerships. If you’re considering a budget-friendly hatchback with lower running costs, here are five key things you need to know about the Citroen C3 CNG.
Price
The retrofitted CNG kit for the Citroen C3 comes at an extra cost of ₹93,000. This price is over and above the cost of the petrol variant you choose. Available across all authorised Citroen dealerships in India, the installation is dealership-approved and handled by trained technicians, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.
So, instead of launching a separate variant, Citroen allows buyers to get a CNG option added directly at the dealership. It’s a flexible and cost-effective move for those looking to switch to cleaner fuels without losing out on existing petrol trims.
Tested
This isn’t your average aftermarket installation. The CNG kit comes from Lovato and is factory-tested and calibrated by Citroen. That means it’s designed to work seamlessly with the existing 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine.
The calibration process is done to ensure the same smooth drive quality that petrol buyers expect. This kind of factory-backed testing adds a layer of reliability that you don’t usually get with third-party kits.
Mileage
Let’s talk efficiency—the main reason anyone looks at CNG. Citroen claims the C3 CNG offers a mileage of 28.1km/kg. While this is a claimed figure and not based on real-world tests, it translates to an estimated running cost of just ₹2.66 per kilometre, depending on your local CNG rates.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
| Fuel Type | Mileage (claimed) | Approx Running Cost/km |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | ~18 kmpl | ₹6.00+ |
| CNG | 28.1 km/kg | ₹2.66 |
That’s a serious saving for daily commuters, especially in cities where fuel prices are always climbing.
Warranty
Another thing that sets this retrofitment apart is the warranty. The standalone Lovato CNG kit comes with a dealer-provided warranty of three years or 1,00,000km—whichever comes first. That’s a pretty decent cover and shows Citroen’s confidence in the system.
Many buyers hesitate to go for aftermarket kits because they void the original car warranty. With this dealer-installed kit, that concern is off the table.
Changes
Citroen hasn’t just slapped on a CNG tank and called it a day. The retrofitment is thoughtfully integrated into the car. For starters, the boot space isn’t compromised, and the spare wheel remains accessible—both rare in CNG hatchbacks.
The CNG filling nozzle is smartly placed within the petrol filler cap, so you won’t have to pop the boot or get your hands dirty. To handle the extra weight and maintain ride quality, Citroen has also tuned the rear shock absorbers, added reinforced springs, and an anti-roll bar.
Engine
The CNG option is available only with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. It’s not offered with the turbo variant for now. You can get this CNG kit with four different trims of the C3—Live, Feel, Feel (O), and Shine—making it widely accessible for different budgets and preferences.
Overall, Citroen’s approach to the C3 CNG feels practical. It keeps the flexibility of petrol, reduces running costs, and adds peace of mind with a tested and supported system—all without changing the car’s core value proposition.
FAQs
What is the CNG kit price for C3?
It costs ₹93,000 over the petrol variant.
What’s the mileage of C3 CNG?
Claimed mileage is 28.1km/kg.
Is the CNG kit factory-fitted?
No, it’s a dealer-installed retrofitment.
Does the CNG kit come with warranty?
Yes, 3 years or 1,00,000km warranty.
Which engine gets the CNG option?
Only the 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine.
