Citroën C3 CNG: a major growth driver in the Indian market

Since its debut in India, the Citroën C3 has frequently made headlines, primarily through its petrol versions and the 100% electric variant, the ë-C3. However, there is a third, equally strategic path for the brand in this rapidly evolving market: the CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) offer. This powertrain, often overshadowed by rapid electrification in Western media, plays a crucial role in Citroën’s expansion strategy. It has recently allowed the brand to reach a symbolic milestone by attracting a leading economic player, confirming that this versatile hatchback has serious arguments to convince large-scale professional fleets.

A CNG solution tailored to Indian transport realities

The CNG powertrain represents the third pillar of the Citroën C3 range in India. As a reminder, CNG is an alternative fuel primarily composed of methane, stored under high pressure in specific tanks integrated into the vehicle. By adding this version to its catalog, Citroën is responding to a growing demand for cleaner mobility solutions than diesel, while offering significantly lower operating costs than petrol.

This energy versatility bore fruit at the end of 2025. Indeed, Citroën secured a major order by delivering 51 units of the C3 CNG to the prestigious Luthra Group. This commercial success proves that the modularity strategy of the C-Cubed platform is paying off. By providing a credible alternative between traditional internal combustion engines and electric vehicles, the brand is successfully entering market segments where cost-per-kilometer is the primary decision factor.

A strong local partnership for a major delivery in Surat

This large-scale operation took place in the state of Gujarat, at the Luthra Group headquarters in Surat. It is the result of close collaboration between Citroën India and its local dealership, La Maison Nanavati. This delivery of 51 vehicles highlights the intrinsic qualities of the C3 CNG, a car that successfully balances economic requirements with environmental respect.

The advantages of the Citroën C3 CNG version are numerous for a client like Luthra Group:

• Operating Economy: The cost of natural gas in India remains very competitive compared to traditional fuels, offering a reduced cost per kilometer.

• Reference Comfort: The C3 retains its signature suspension with hydraulic cushions, essential for tackling Indian roads, thus providing superior driving comfort for employees.

• Space and Durability: The spacious cabin and tropicalized air conditioning ensure seamless intensive use, even under high temperatures.

• Reduced Emissions: CNG allows for a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and atmospheric pollutants compared to a standard petrol engine.

By establishing itself in medium-sized cities and industrial hubs like Surat, Citroën demonstrates its ability to adapt its offer to the real mobility needs of Indian companies, while strengthening its geographical footprint across the country.

A conquest strategy through energy diversity

While Citroën had already made an impact by winning significant contracts with the electric version of the C3, particularly with taxi companies and urban fleets, the CNG version now proves to be an indispensable complement. It allows the brand to win over industrial and service companies that require significant range and fast refueling times, while also wishing to improve their environmental image.

The delivery of 51 units in Surat is not just a figure; it is a testament to Citroën’s regained credibility in a complex market. By playing on all fronts — petrol, electric, and gas — the French manufacturer maximizes its global sales volumes and ensures a loyal and diversified customer base for years to come. The year 2026 is shaping up to be very promising for Citroën in India.