Hyundai Aura E CNG: Exploring the Base Model Sedan

The Hyundai Aura is a popular choice in the sedan segment, offering a blend of style and practicality. Today, we delve into its base model, the E CNG variant, to understand what features and specifications it brings to the table. This detailed overview covers everything from its exterior design to its interior comforts, pricing, and safety aspects.

Price and Variants

The Hyundai Aura starts its journey with an ex-showroom price of ₹6,49,000 for its base model. The top model can go up to approximately ₹10,00,000. Specifically, the E CNG variant has an ex-showroom price of ₹6,48,000. On-road in Lucknow, this CNG model is priced at around ₹8,50,000. For comparison, the petrol variant of the base model also has an ex-showroom price of ₹6,48,000, but its on-road price in Lucknow is approximately ₹7,00,000. This shows a difference of roughly ₹1,00,000 between the petrol and CNG variants.

The Hyundai Aura comes in a total of four variants:

• E (Base Variant)
• S
• SX
• SX Optional (Top Model)

Exterior Overview

The Hyundai Aura E CNG presents a functional yet appealing exterior.

Front Profile

At the front, the car features normal halogen headlights. Notably, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are not included in this base variant. The front grille contributes to the base model’s distinct look. The vehicle offers a ground clearance of 165 millimeters. Dual wipers and a washer are placed on the plain roof.

Side Profile

From the side, the Aura E CNG showcases 14-inch steel rims without wheel covers. Indicators are positioned on the fenders. The Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVMs) and door handles come in a matt black finish, adding to the base variant’s aesthetic. The ORVMs are manually foldable and adjustable using a stick from inside the cabin. The A-pillar and B-pillar are body-colored. For braking, the front wheels are equipped with disc brakes, while the rear wheels have normal drum brakes.

Rear Profile

The rear of the Aura E CNG has a surprising feature for a base model: LED taillights. The car also displays “Aura” and “CNG” badging. The rear bumper includes two reverse parking sensors and reflectors on both sides. Yellow lights are provided near the number plate. The exhaust pipe and rear suspension setup are visible below the bumper.

Boot Space and Fuel Efficiency

The trunk of the Aura E CNG is opened using a key, as there is no remote or internal lever in this variant. Despite being a CNG model, it offers a decent amount of boot space with a single CNG cylinder. Underneath the boot floor, you will find the spare wheel, along with the toolkit and jack. Hyundai also offers a dual CNG cylinder option; if chosen, the spare wheel is replaced with a tire repair kit.

The petrol fuel tank capacity is approximately 35-37 liters. The CNG tank can hold about 8-9 kg of CNG, depending on the pressure at the pump. The CNG variant delivers an impressive mileage of up to 28 km/kg.

Interior Comfort and Features

Step inside the Hyundai Aura E CNG, and you’ll find a practical and dual-tone cabin.

Rear Cabin

The rear doors feature a dual-tone trim. Rear windows are manual, requiring a hand crank to operate. Door openers are present, and space is available for speakers to be installed later. Bottle holders are integrated into the doors. The seats throughout the car are made of fabric. The rear cabin offers adjustable headrests for both passengers, a thoughtful inclusion for a base variant. There are no rear AC vents in this model. Legroom and thigh support in the rear are quite good, providing comfortable space for passengers. A yellow roof light illuminates the cabin.

Front Cabin

The front cabin continues the dual-tone theme for the dashboard and door trims. The driver’s side door panel includes controls for both front power windows. The ORVMs are manually adjustable via a stick. The seats are fabric, and the driver’s seat comes with both height adjustment and recline adjustment. The ABC pedals indicate a manual transmission. The car has foot-operated fuel lid and boot openers. Blue ambient lighting is present. Switches for converting between CNG and petrol, along with headlight leveling controls, are conveniently located.

The steering wheel features the Hyundai logo but is fixed, meaning it offers no tilt or telescopic adjustment. The instrument cluster includes an RPM meter, a speedometer marked up to 220 km/h, and gauges for both petrol and CNG fuel levels. A Multi-Information Display (MID) screen provides details like mileage, range, trip information, and door ajar warnings. Manual controls are available for headlights and wipers.

A space is provided for installing an audio system (2-DIN or touchscreen) later, as this variant does not come with one. The dashboard also includes a hazard light switch and black-finished AC vents with a subtle golden-type treatment around them. Manual AC controls allow adjustment of fan speed, temperature, air flow, and AC on/off. A 12V charging outlet is present, but USB ports are not included. Small storage spaces are available for items like mobile phones. The car features a 5-speed manual transmission; while the CNG variant is manual-only, petrol variants offer an automatic option. Two cupholders are located near the manual handbrake.

A standout feature in this base model is the cooled glove box. The car also includes a normal IRVM and a yellow roof light. The driver’s sun visor has a ticket holder, while the passenger’s sun visor is plain. Six airbags are standard across the car, providing enhanced safety.

Engine and Performance

The Hyundai Aura E CNG is powered by a CNG engine, offering impressive fuel economy. This variant is only available with a manual transmission. The car delivers a mileage of up to 28 km/kg.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority in the Hyundai Aura, even in its base variant. It comes equipped with a comprehensive set of safety features, including:

• ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• Six Airbags
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• Speed Alert System
• Seatbelt Warning
• Engine Immobilizer
• Crash Sensors
• Door Ajar Warning

Warranty and Rivals

The Hyundai Aura comes with a standard warranty of 3 years or 1,00,000 kilometers, which can be further extended. In the market, the Hyundai Aura directly competes with other popular sedans like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Tata Tigor.

Color Options

The model covered here is in White. Other available color options include Aqua Teal, Grey, and Silver.

Final Thoughts

The Hyundai Aura E CNG base model offers a compelling package for those seeking an economical and practical sedan. While it omits some premium features like remote central locking and an in-built audio system, it compensates with surprising inclusions such as LED taillights, adjustable headrests, a cooled glove box, and standard six airbags, making it a strong contender in its segment.