[Voodooblaster]

Originally Posted by 07CR

Update
Unfortunately, he isn't budging on the same and believes CNG would still be the cheaper car to run and own and has therefore gone ahead by booking a Tiago XT CNG.

Talked with a few acquaintances in Maruti Service Centre. They have warned that CNG engines don't age as well as Petrols and diesels even with meticulous maintanence

There is a significant trade off in performance. Also as vehicle ages , there will be a significant drop in performance and higher maintanence costs.

Widespread availability of CNG stations is still an issue in many Tier 2 and 3 cities. In rural areas, it's even worse

For 10+ years of usage, the Maruti engines are more reliable. Ignis is highly recommended followed by Wagon R (more space than Ignis)

Since your friend is also looking for good NCAP rating, the Tiago and Punch are the only serious contenders

The booking can always be modified to a different variant/powertrain or even model within same OEM without any penalty

Ask your friend to speak with other CNG car owners (who have used it for 5+ years) and also take an opinion from an unbiased service centre/FNG dealing with CNG cars before making payment for the CNG model