6 new CNG cars launching in 6 months: Maruti Wagon R facelift CNG to Hyundai Bayon CNG. Published: November 5, 2026 at 06:45 AM Updated: November 5, 2026 at 06:45 AM CNG cars have become extremely popular in India because of their lower running costs compared to petrol-powered vehicles. As a result of this increasing demand, more automakers are now getting ready to launch CNG cars in India. So, if you are also someone who is planning to buy a new CNG car in the coming months, here are six upcoming models that are in the launch pipeline. Maruti Suzuki Fronx facelift CNG - new engine and automatic gearbox. Currently, Maruti Suzuki has the biggest CNG portfolio in India, and the company is now getting ready to launch the Fronx facelift. This time around, the biggest change will be the introduction of a new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine. It will replace the existing 1.2-litre, four-cylinder K-Series unit. In CNG mode, this engine is expected to produce around 69 bhp and 101 Nm of torque. Maruti Suzuki could also introduce a 5-speed AMT gearbox with the CNG version, which will make it more convenient for city driving. Apart from this, the facelift is expected to get revised bumpers, a new grille, ventilated front seats, TPMS and Level 2 ADAS. Recent test vehicles have also suggested the possibility of rear disc brakes. Hyundai Bayon CNG - new mid-size CNG SUV. Next up is the Hyundai Bayon CNG, which is scheduled to be launched in January 2027. It will expand Bayon's powertrain lineup and help in competing with SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder CNG. Talking about the engine, the Bayon CNG is expected to use a modified version of the existing 1.5-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. In petrol mode, this engine produces 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque. However, the CNG version is expected to produce slightly lower power and torque figures. It is also more likely to come paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. What is interesting is that the Bayon CNG could get an underbody-mounted cylinder. And as Cartoq know, this will help in saving luggage space. However, Hyundai has not revealed the final tank layout, mileage or pricing. Renault Triber CNG - new underbody cylinder setup. The French automaker Renault is also working on the development of the Triber CNG, which is expected to get a major mechanical upgrade. For those who may not be aware, Renault has introduced an updated platform called the Renault Group Entry Platform, or RGEP. The biggest advantage of this architecture is that it supports underbody-mounted CNG cylinders. Unlike the existing dealer-level CNG conversion, the upcoming factory-fitted version is expected to use two cylinders positioned beneath the floor. This setup will help in saving boot space, which is important for a seven-seater MPV like the Triber. Mechanically, the upcoming CNG version could use the new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 100 PS in petrol form. However, its output will be lower in CNG mode. Renault has not officially announced the exact launch date, mileage or pricing of the upcoming Triber CNG. Renault Kiger CNG - factory-fitted twin-cylinder SUV. Another new Renault CNG vehicle on this list is the Kiger CNG. It is also expected to get a factory-fitted CNG powertrain. Currently, the Kiger is available with a dealer-level CNG conversion based on its 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. However, this setup occupies a considerable amount of luggage space. The upcoming version is expected to move to Renault's RGEP architecture. And like the Triber CNG, it will also support two interconnected CNG cylinders mounted underneath the vehicle. Apart from this, Renault could also offer the Kiger CNG with its 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This engine produces 100 PS in petrol form. Also, an automatic gearbox could be introduced in the future. However, Renault has not confirmed the engine specifications, transmission options or launch date. Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor facelift CNG - updated Fronx twin. The fifth model on this list is the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor facelift, which is expected to launch around March 2027. As Cartoq all are aware, the Taisor is based on the Maruti Suzuki Fronx and shares its platform and major powertrain components. Currently, the Taisor CNG gets a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 76.43 bhp and 98.5 Nm of torque in CNG mode. It comes paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and offers a claimed mileage of 28.5 km/kg. However, the upcoming facelift could receive the newer 1.2-litre Z-Series engine if Toyota adopts the expected Fronx powertrain updates. Apart from this, the updated Taisor could get revised bumpers, a redesigned grille, additional safety equipment and new interior features. Most likely, it will be launched in the first half of 2027. Maruti Suzuki Wagon R facelift CNG - more practical hatchback. Last on this list, Cartoq has the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R facelift, which has recently been spotted testing on its public roads. The updated hatchback is expected to get a revised front grille, updated headlamp detailing, redesigned bumpers and minor changes to the rear reflectors. However, the biggest highlight could be the introduction of an underbody-mounted CNG cylinder. This setup will help in freeing up luggage space compared to the existing Wagon R CNG. Mechanically, the facelift is expected to continue with the 1.0-litre petrol-CNG engine. Meanwhile, the existing 1.2-litre petrol engine could be replaced by the newer three-cylinder Z-Series unit.

Renault unmanned vehicle: the smart concept for defense. The Renault unmanned vehicle concept is a groundbreaking development in the automotive and defense sectors. This innovative design, created in partnership with a Belgian defense contractor, aims to enhance operational capabilities. Overview of Renault's forefront concept. Renault has unveiled its innovative unmanned vehicle concept, known as the Forefront, in collaboration with a prominent Belgian defense contractor. This cutting-edge vehicle is designed to enhance operational capabilities in various defense scenarios. The Forefront unmanned vehicle is built on advanced technology, integrating artificial intelligence and automated systems to perform tasks that were traditionally reliant on human operators. The vehicle's design emphasizes versatility and adaptability, making it suitable for a range of missions, from reconnaissance to logistical support. Key features of the Forefront include: * Autonomous Navigation: The vehicle can navigate complex terrains without direct human intervention, allowing for efficient operation in challenging environments. * Modular Design: The Forefront's architecture supports various modular attachments, enabling it to be customized for specific missions. * Enhanced Communication: Equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems, it can relay real-time data to command centers, improving situational awareness. As governments and military organizations increasingly seek unmanned solutions to enhance operational efficiency, Renault's unmanned vehicle concept positions itself at the forefront of this transformative shift in defense technology. The Forefront exemplifies Renault's commitment to innovation and its potential impact on future defense operations. Collaboration with Belgian defense contractor. In a significant move towards enhancing military capabilities, Renault has announced a collaboration with a prominent Belgian defense contractor to develop the Renault unmanned vehicle. This partnership aims to leverage advanced technologies to create a versatile and efficient unmanned platform that can be utilized in various defense scenarios. The joint initiative focuses on integrating cutting-edge features into the Renault unmanned vehicle, ensuring it meets the rigorous demands of modern warfare. Key aspects of the collaboration include: * Research and Development: Both companies will invest in R&D to explore innovative solutions that enhance autonomy and operational effectiveness. * Customizable Configurations: The vehicle can be tailored to specific military requirements, allowing for various payloads and mission profiles. * Data Integration: Emphasis will be placed on integrating real-time data analytics to improve decision-making processes on the battlefield. * Testing and Validation: Extensive testing phases will ensure the reliability and resilience of the unmanned vehicle under diverse conditions. This collaboration not only marks a significant advancement for Renault but also positions it as a key player in the defense sector, aiming to meet the evolving needs of military operations through innovation and technology. Impact on defense technology. The introduction of the Renault unmanned vehicle marks a significant shift in defense technology, emphasizing innovation and efficiency. This advanced concept is designed to enhance operational capabilities while minimizing risks to personnel in combat situations. One key impact of the Renault unmanned vehicle is its ability to perform surveillance and reconnaissance missions in challenging environments. By utilizing cutting-edge sensors and artificial intelligence, the vehicle can gather crucial intelligence without putting soldiers in harm's way. This capability is particularly vital in modern warfare, where information can determine the outcome of engagements. Moreover, the integration of autonomous systems into defense operations can lead to improved logistical support. The Renault unmanned vehicle can transport supplies and equipment to remote locations, ensuring that troops have the necessary resources without exposing them to potential threats. The collaboration with a Belgian defense contractor further enhances the vehicle's potential, combining Renault's automotive expertise with specialized military knowledge. This partnership aims to create a multifunctional platform that can adapt to various mission requirements. As defense technologies continue to evolve, the Renault unmanned vehicle stands at the forefront, promising to redefine how military operations are conducted in the future. Future of unmanned vehicles in automotive. The future of unmanned vehicles in the automotive sector is rapidly evolving, with innovations like the Renault unmanned vehicle concept leading the charge. As military and defense operations increasingly rely on advanced technology, the integration of unmanned vehicles is becoming a focal point for strategic development. One of the key advantages of unmanned vehicles is their ability to operate in hazardous environments without risking human lives. This capability allows for enhanced reconnaissance, surveillance, and logistical support in a variety of scenarios. As manufacturers like Renault explore this technology, the potential applications extend beyond military uses, potentially influencing civilian sectors such as emergency response and logistics. Moreover, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are paving the way for smarter decision-making processes within these unmanned systems. These technologies enable vehicles to navigate complex terrains and respond to dynamic situations autonomously. The synergy between automotive engineering and defense technology holds the promise of creating more resilient and efficient vehicles. As global security challenges evolve, so too will the role of unmanned vehicles in addressing these issues, making it essential for companies like Renault to stay at the forefront of this transformative movement.

Renault's defence ambitions grow with Belgian war robot. November 4, 2026 Renault and Belgian industrial group John Cockerill have developed Forefront Concept, an electric ground robot designed for military and civilian missions. Production is planned in France /Renault Renault is expanding its involvement in military technology once again. Less than five months after CEO François Provost insisted that the French carmaker would not become a defense company, Renault has unveiled its third military drone partnership, this time with Belgium's John Cockerill. The result is Forefront Concept, an electrically powered ground robot designed for dangerous battlefield missions. The new vehicle combines Renault's expertise in electric powertrains and mass production with the Belgian industrial group's military technology. It is intended to evacuate wounded soldiers, transport supplies, conduct reconnaissance and potentially provide armed support without exposing personnel to enemy fire. Forefront has four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and two electric motors. Renault claims a range of approximately 400 kilometers, extendable with a range extender, and a payload capacity of one tonne. It can negotiate gradients of up to 60%. The vehicle is remotely operated, with John Cockerill developing increasingly autonomous functions. It can also carry remotely controlled weapons and counter-drone equipment. Civilian applications include protecting critical infrastructure and operating in hazardous industrial environments. Ten times cheaper? The partnership reflects a fundamental shift in military manufacturing. Rather than developing expensive bespoke equipment, Renault uses proven automotive components and production methods to reduce costs and accelerate manufacturing. According to AFP, around 70% of Forefront's components are derived from existing automotive technology. John Cockerill CEO Jean-Luc Maurange believes this approach could reduce costs by a factor of ten compared with the original development concept. That would be particularly relevant in Ukraine, where increasingly dangerous drone-monitored battlefields make unmanned logistics and casualty evacuation essential. Forefront will undergo military trials in France in the coming weeks. According to Le Monde, exercises are also planned with the Belgian army. However, neither country has placed firm orders, and Renault has not yet identified which French factory would produce the vehicle. Renault's third military venture. As Newmobility.news previously reported, Renault's growing involvement in defense increasingly contrasts with Provost's public position. At the Automotive News Europe Congress in Brussels last June, he stated categorically that Renault would not become a defense company. Nevertheless, the carmaker had already committed to producing Chorus long-range drones in partnership with the French specialist Turgis Gaillard. Days later, Renault announced another partnership, with Thales, to industrialize the Toutatis loitering munition. That project targets the production of up to 1,000 units per month starting in 2027. Forefront now adds an electric ground vehicle to this expanding military portfolio. Renault continues to insist that it is contributing industrial expertise rather than entering the arms business. Defense remains outside its core futuREady strategy, and the company says military projects must not compromise investment in passenger cars. A remarkable Belgian connection. For John Cockerill, headquartered in Seraing near Liège, Forefront creates another opportunity to expand its defense activities. The group acquired French military-vehicle manufacturer Arquus in 2024. Arquus was formerly Renault Trucks Defense, meaning the new collaboration effectively reconnects Renault with a military-vehicle business bearing its historical name. John Cockerill contributes the remote-control technology, autonomous systems, military equipment integration and operational expertise. Renault supplies the vehicle platform and its industrialization capabilities. However, the economic benefits to Belgium remain uncertain. Production is planned in France, and neither partner has specified whether Belgian facilities will manufacture components or develop systems for Forefront. The potential involvement of the Belgian army in testing nevertheless gives the project a direct connection to Belgium's own defense requirements. Carmakers return to defense. Renault is not alone. European automotive suppliers, including Schaeffler, Forvia and Valeo, are increasingly applying their manufacturing expertise to military drones and related technologies. For Renault, the attraction is the ability to produce sophisticated equipment at automotive scale. For John Cockerill, the advantage is access to a major carmaker's engineering, purchasing power and manufacturing network. But Forefront remains a concept awaiting operational validation and customer orders. Whether it becomes a profitable new industrial activity, and whether Belgian factories will share in that business, has yet to be established. For Renault, meanwhile, the distinction between helping the defense industry and becoming part of it is growing increasingly difficult to maintain.