Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG real-world mileage compared

Mahindra launched a CNG version of its entry-level model, the XUV 3XO, in October 2026. The XUV 3XO CNG (or ZNG, as Mahindra calls it) directly takes on the Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG, and claims the highest power output of all CNG-powered cars currently sold in India. What about fuel efficiency, though, given that it’s a more pertinent concern for CNG buyers? We put the XUV 3XO CNG and Brezza CNG through our fastidious real-world mileage tests to find out.

Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG: Specifications

The XUV 3XO CNG uses the compact SUV’s base 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, but unlike other CNG cars, there’s no drop in power when running on gas – Mahindra remapped the ECU and turbocharger, and used a 10-bar fuel injection system to achieve this. Therefore, despite having a smaller engine than the Brezza’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated unit, the XUV 3XO CNG develops an additional 23hp and 78.5Nm. That said, the Brezza CNG does claim a higher ARAI mileage figure.

Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG: Real-world mileage

Across both our city and highway mileage tests, the Brezza CNG emerged as the undisputed winner. In urban conditions, the Maruti SUV travelled 3.65km more than the XUV 3XO CNG for every kilogram of gas, while on the highway, the Mahindra closed the gap slightly, working out to 3.21km. Overall, the Brezza CNG achieved a delta of 3.43km/kg over the XUV 3XO CNG, firmly cementing it as the fuel-efficiency champion among the two.

Mahindra XUV 3XO CNG vs Maruti Brezza CNG: Prices

Not only is the Brezza CNG more fuel-efficient, it's also more affordable. Comparing base prices, the XUV 3XO CNG is Rs 59,000 pricier than the Brezza CNG, and at the top level, the Mahindra SUV commands a premium of Rs 67,000. To sum up, then, if you value fuel efficiency the most, the Brezza CNG is the no-brainer pick, but if you can sacrifice some mileage and affordability in favour of a more fun driving experience, the XUV 3XO CNG is the one to go for.

Autocar India’s fuel-efficiency testing

Before conducting our real-world fuel-efficiency tests, we fill our test cars’ tanks to the brim and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. These cars are then driven on fixed city and highway loops in and around Navi Mumbai, and we maintain certain average speeds. Throughout the tests, we run the aircon at 22 degrees in full-auto mode and other electronics, such as the audio system, indicators, wipers and ventilated front seats, when required – just as a regular user would. Periodic driver swaps further neutralize variations in driver patterns. At the end of each cycle, we calculate efficiency by filling the tanks to full again.

All prices are ex-showroom, India.