When businesses or transport operators in India look for a light commercial vehicle (LCV), fuel efficiency and mileage often dominate the decision-making process. Mileage directly impacts operating costs, especially if the vehicle runs long distances or carries heavy loads daily.
In this comparison, we focus on two popular Tata Motors trucks — the Tata Intra V20 (including the Intra V20 Gold/Bi-fuel variants) and the Tata Ace Gold — to determine which one delivers better mileage and overall fuel economy benefits. While both vehicles serve similar purposes within the mini-truck segment, they differ significantly in engine design, fuel systems, and operating characteristics, all of which affect real-world mileage performance.
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This article explores each model’s mileage figures, how mileage integrates with payload capacity and fuel type, and which vehicle might offer the better balance between cost and efficiency for different users.
Overview of Tata Intra V20 – Features, Engine & Fuel System
The Tata Intra V20 is a part of Tata Motors’ modern compact truck lineup, positioned between the smaller Tata Ace series and larger commercial trucks. Built with a focus on durability and utility, the Intra V20 is popular with logistics services, city delivery operators, and small-business owners who require a reliable yet fuel-efficient truck for frequent stops, varying routes, and payload requirements.
There are multiple versions of the Intra V20, including the Intra V20 Gold and Bi-fuel variants, which introduce flexibility and options for fuel use depending on operational needs. One standout feature of the Intra V20 range is its bi-fuel capability — some models can run on petrol or CNG, offering potentially lower fuel costs with compressed natural gas, while still providing the flexibility to revert to petrol when needed.
This multi-fuel approach targets businesses that want the cost savings of CNG without sacrificing range or performance. smalltrucks.tatamotors.com
In terms of engine specifications, the Intra V20 typically uses a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder engine that delivers adequate power for its size and purpose. On petrol, certain Intra V20 Gold variants are quoted at around 11.5 kmpl under standard test conditions, which reflects a balance between load-carrying capability and fuel economy. truckonwheels.com Bi-fuel CNG variants can often achieve significantly higher km/kg figures because CNG generally delivers more kilometres per unit of fuel cost than conventional petrol or diesel — though the exact mileage varies based on load, terrain, and driving style. Despite a slightly larger engine and heavier build compared to the Ace Gold, the Intra V20’s bi-fuel design aims to offset higher running costs with improved operational flexibility.
Beyond raw mileage, the Intra V20’s appeal lies in features such as electric power steering, higher payload capacity, and modern safety/comfort elements that make day-to-day use easier for drivers. The fuel system’s design, whether petrol or petrol + CNG, plays a significant role in determining the real-world mileage for this truck.
Overview of Tata Ace Gold – Classic Mini Truck Mileage & Benefits
The Tata Ace Gold is one of the most recognizable names in India’s mini truck segment. Part of the iconic Tata Ace series that helped define light commercial transport in the country, the Ace Gold is favored for its simplicity, low acquisition cost, and excellent fuel economy. Designed as an entry-level but dependable workhorse, the Ace Gold appeals especially to small business owners, vendors, and tradespeople who need a no-frills truck with good mileage, easy maintenance, and robust reliability.
One of the main reasons the Ace Gold remains popular is its engine simplicity and efficiency. Traditional Ace Gold versions have a smaller petrol or diesel engine with lower displacement relative to the Intra V20. Because of this, the Ace Gold often returns higher mileage figures, which is highly attractive for cost-sensitive operations. Multiple unofficial and comparison sources report that the Ace Gold delivers around 18-20 kmpl in general use and sometimes figures even higher in light load conditions. TruckDekho In CNG variants, mileage is measured differently (in km per kg of CNG), and such models can often achieve around 21-24 km/kg under ideal conditions, highlighting the inherent efficiency advantage of CNG in smaller engines. CMV360
The Ace Gold’s smaller engine size paired with its lightweight design means less fuel is consumed per kilometre — especially in city driving or during frequent stops — boosting average mileage. For businesses that operate mainly in urban environments, this can translate to significant fuel savings over time. Additionally, low maintenance costs and simpler serviceability add to the overall appeal of the Ace Gold as a cost-effective transport option.
While the Ace Gold may not offer the same payload capacity or cabin features as the Intra V20, its mileage advantage often makes it a logical choice for lighter duties where fuel efficiency is prioritized over heavy load-carrying capability. This makes it especially suitable for intra-city logistics, small cargo movement, and delivery services that require hundreds of kilometres of daily travel within urban areas.
Mileage Comparison: Tata Intra V20 vs Tata Ace Gold
When comparing fuel efficiency and mileage figures, it’s important to look beyond just “km per litre” numbers and consider how fuel type, payload, and real-world usage affect performance.
Direct Mileage Figures
Based on available specification comparisons:
- Tata Intra V20 (Gold/Petrol) is reported at around 11.5 kmpl under standard test conditions. truckonwheels.com
- Tata Ace Gold (Petrol/Diesel) variants often show significantly higher figures, with city mileage figures commonly cited between 18-20 kmpl or more. TruckDekho
- CNG variants of these trucks (both Intra V20 CNG and Ace Gold CNG) show efficiency in terms of km per kg of CNG. For some models, this can range from 17 km/kg to 24 km/kg depending on variant and conditions. CMV360
From a pure mileage perspective, the Ace Gold outperforms the Intra V20 on conventional petrol/diesel fuel figures. Smaller engine displacement and lighter weight contribute to better kmpl values. This difference becomes even more noticeable when both vehicles are operating under similar load conditions typical of urban trips.
Real-World Factors Affecting Mileage
However, comparing mileage between these trucks needs to account for real-world factors:
- Payload and load distribution: Higher payloads increase fuel consumption. Since the Intra V20 is rated for larger loads, its mileage in loaded conditions will be lower relative to an Ace Gold carrying a lighter load.
- Fuel type: CNG variants inherently provide a cost-per-distance advantage; even if the raw mileage figure might not look higher in km/kg, the operating cost per kilometre can be significantly lower with CNG.
- Driving conditions: Highway vs city driving, frequency of stops, terrain, and driver habits all influence real-world mileage outcomes. The Ace Gold’s mileage advantage is more pronounced in consistent urban traffic where lighter weight and smaller engine size reduce consumption.
Cost vs Mileage Perspective
Mileage alone doesn’t tell the complete story for operators. While the Ace Gold has better figures on paper for fuel consumption, businesses must weigh this against:
- Payload needs (Intra V20 can carry more, meaning fewer trips)
- Fuel cost differences (CNG can be cheaper than petrol/diesel)
- Maintenance and long-term reliability
Thus, while Ace Gold typically delivers better conventional fuel mileage, the Intra V20 excels in multi-fuel flexibility and operational range, potentially offsetting mileage deficits with lower fuel costs and higher payload capacity.
Fuel Cost Efficiency: Beyond Average Mileage Figures
Assessing which truck is truly more cost-efficient requires going beyond mileage statistics to understand fuel cost per kilometre, fuel type availability, and long-term operating economics.
Ace Gold – Lean, Fuel-Efficient Performer
The Tata Ace Gold’s smaller engine and lightweight design naturally deliver higher kmpl figures. For petrol or diesel variants, this translates into a lower fuel cost per kilometre, especially in city or intra-city applications where frequent starting, stopping, and low-speed driving occur. Operators who do shorter, repeat trips within towns or between nearby destinations will see fewer refueling stops and more distance per litre, reducing operational costs. High mileage figures, sometimes exceeding 18-20 kmpl, make the Ace Gold a very economical choice for typical use-cases where payload demands are moderate.
Intra V20 – Bi-fuel Flexibility & CNG Economics
The Tata Intra V20 Gold (especially in bi-fuel configurations) offers unique fuel cost advantages even if the raw kmpl figure appears lower. CNG generally costs significantly less per unit of energy compared with petrol or diesel in India. When a truck like the Intra V20 operates on CNG, actual cost per kilometre can drop drastically. For instance, CNG models showing mileage figures such as 17 km/kg or more (in some spec sheets and comparisons) can be far more economical than petrol/diesel alternatives thanks to lower per-kg CNG prices. CMV360
Moreover, the bi-fuel system means drivers aren’t stranded when CNG refills aren’t available — they can switch to petrol and still complete a trip. This operational flexibility offers high utilization without frequent costs spikes from fuel price fluctuations.
Break-Even Considerations
Though the Ace Gold offers better mileage on paper, the total fuel cost per year can be equal or even lower for the Intra V20 CNG variant, depending on:
- Daily distance covered
- Proportion of CNG vs petrol used
- Fuel price variations in the region
- Payload requirements
Companies with heavy, long-distance freight routes may benefit more from the economies of CNG combined with higher payload capability of the Intra V20.
Final Verdict – Mileage Winner & Use-Case Recommendations
After comparing the key factors, mileage figures, and practical considerations:
Mileage Winner (Pure Fuel Efficiency)
For straight fuel efficiency in km per litre (petrol/diesel):
✔ Tata Ace Gold
- Superior kmpl figures (18-20 kmpl or higher)
- Smaller engine and lighter design
- Great choice for urban routes and small loads
The Ace Gold wins if your goal is maximum mileage with minimal daily distances and light payloads.
Best Overall Operational Efficiency
For combined operational cost savings and flexibility:
✔ *Tata Intra V20 (especially bi-fuel/CNG)
- CNG fuel cost per km likely lower
- Bi-fuel option gives operational flexibility
- Higher payload reduces per-trip cost
- Suitable for both city and long-distance work
While the Intra V20 may show lower raw mileage figures (e.g., ~11.5 kmpl petrol), its fuel cost per kilometre and range efficiency often match or exceed the Ace Gold when CNG use is optimized.
Usage Guide
- Small businesses or intra-city deliveries: Tata Ace Gold is generally more economical.
- Heavy payload or mixed route usage: Tata Intra V20 with bi-fuel option tends to be more cost-effective.
- Longer haul or frequent daily travel: Intra V20’s flexibility and fuel cost advantages make it a smart choice.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Tata Intra V20 and Tata Ace Gold for mileage depends on how the vehicle will be used. If your priority is maximum conventional mileage with lighter loads, the Ace Gold wins. However, if you prioritize fuel cost savings, higher payloads, and flexibility with CNG, then the Intra V20 (bi-fuel/CNG) offers the better overall value despite lower paper mileage figures.
Both trucks have strong pedigrees in India’s commercial vehicle segment, but mileage is best viewed not just in km per litre terms but in total operating cost per kilometre, where the Intra V20 often shines for larger, more varied operations.