Petrol vs CNG – Monthly Running Cost Comparison for 2025

Petrol vs CNG – Monthly Running Cost Comparison for 2025

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With fuel prices in India continuing to rise in 2025, many car buyers and owners are re-evaluating whether petrol cars are still affordable compared to their CNG counterparts. The debate of petrol vs CNG cost comparison 2025 has become more relevant than ever, especially for middle-class families and daily commuters who drive long distances. This article breaks down the monthly running costs of both fuel types, examines long-term ownership expenses, and helps you decide whether switching to a CNG car makes financial sense in 2025.

Petrol vs CNG – Monthly Running Cost Comparison for 2025

Current Fuel Prices in 2025

Fuel prices vary slightly across states, but the average rates as of September 2025 are:

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  • Petrol: ₹110–₹115 per litre in metro cities.

  • CNG: ₹72–₹76 per kg in most states.

This stark difference means that even if CNG cars are slightly costlier upfront, the long-term savings on running costs can be significant.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Mileage plays a crucial role in determining overall running costs. On average:

  • Petrol Cars: Deliver 15–18 km per litre.

  • CNG Cars: Deliver 22–28 km per kg.

When adjusted for cost per kilometre, CNG cars turn out to be nearly 40–45% cheaper to run compared to petrol cars.

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Monthly Running Cost Calculation for 2025

Let us take an example of a car owner driving 1,200 km per month, a common figure for daily office commuters.

  1. Petrol Car (Average 16 km/l):

    • Fuel needed = 1,200 ÷ 16 = 75 litres.

    • Monthly fuel cost = 75 × ₹112 (average) = ₹8,400.

  2. CNG Car (Average 25 km/kg):

    • Fuel needed = 1,200 ÷ 25 = 48 kg.

    • Monthly fuel cost = 48 × ₹74 (average) = ₹3,552.

Difference: A CNG car saves around ₹4,800 every month compared to a petrol car.

Annual Cost Difference

  • Petrol car running cost per year: ₹8,400 × 12 = ₹1,00,800.

  • CNG car running cost per year: ₹3,552 × 12 = ₹42,624.

This means an annual saving of nearly ₹58,000, which in five years translates into ₹2.9 lakh saved on fuel alone.

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Additional Costs of CNG Cars

While CNG cars clearly save money on fuel, they do come with some extra costs:

  • Higher Initial Price: Factory-fitted CNG variants are ₹80,000–₹1.2 lakh costlier than their petrol versions.

  • Maintenance: CNG kits require regular tuning and filter replacement, costing around ₹5,000–₹7,000 annually.

  • Boot Space Reduction: Dual-cylinder setups reduce luggage space.

  • Availability of Fuel Stations: CNG stations are more common in metro cities, but rural areas still face shortages.

Despite these downsides, the fuel savings easily outweigh the extra expenses within two years of ownership.

Resale Value Impact

In 2025, CNG cars enjoy stronger resale demand due to lower running costs. Buyers increasingly prefer second-hand CNG cars over petrol models, especially in NCR, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, where fuel prices are steep. Petrol cars, particularly larger sedans and SUVs, face weaker resale values due to higher ownership costs.

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Environmental Impact

Another factor in the CNG vs petrol debate is the environment.

  • Petrol vehicles emit higher carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, contributing to smog and pollution.

  • CNG vehicles release less NOx and particulate matter, making them cleaner and more compliant with India’s upcoming BS7 norms.

This also means that policy makers may keep offering tax incentives and lower registration fees for CNG cars in coming years.

Who Should Buy a Petrol Car in 2025?

Petrol cars still have their advantages and are suitable if you:

  • Drive less than 500–600 km per month (low usage).

  • Live in areas with few or no CNG stations.

  • Want higher performance and power delivery.

  • Prefer lower upfront cost.

Who Should Buy a CNG Car in 2025?

CNG cars are a better option if you:

  • Drive 1,000+ km per month regularly.

  • Want to save money on fuel in the long term.

  • Live in cities with good CNG infrastructure like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad.

  • Prioritize eco-friendliness and cleaner emissions.

FAQs

How much money can I save with a CNG car in 2025?

A CNG car saves around ₹4,500–₹5,000 per month compared to petrol cars, depending on driving distance and fuel prices.

Are CNG cars safe in 2025?

Yes, factory-fitted CNG cars are safe, equipped with fire-resistant cylinders, leak detection systems, and government-certified kits.

Do CNG cars require more maintenance than petrol cars?

Yes, CNG cars need periodic kit servicing and tuning, but the costs are minor compared to the huge fuel savings.

Will BS7 emission norms affect CNG cars?

No, CNG cars are already cleaner than petrol and diesel models, making them more compliant with future emission standards.

Which is better for city driving: Petrol or CNG?

For heavy city use, CNG is far more economical. Petrol cars only make sense for low usage or in areas lacking CNG pumps.

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