New Maruti Alto fully outfitted to threat Eon this Diwali
28, June 2012 : The launch of New Maruti Alto this Diwali got some solid backing from the un-camouflaged pictures of the small car that was spotted testing. The car with company emblem in front was taller in design and inside it looked spacious and of course, with incorporation of some modern features, an ideal Hyundai Eon rival is ready. As per the reports, the car with Ford Figo-like headlamps and curvy rear is believed to go into production by next month. Hence it will see a 2012 Diwali launch.
Maruti Alto surpasses sales of 20 Lakh units
19 June, 2012 : India’s beloved small car Maruti Alto is again in news with some more tales of triumph. The bestselling car has crossed the sales of 20 Lakh units recently. Since its launch in the country it has always seen an upward sales graph and every passing day it has bettered its own record. Maruti Alto was originally launched nearly 12 years ago. It took 8 years and 3 months to catch up the 10-lakh sales figure, while another 10-lakh took paltry 3.5 years. With these facts, one can imagine that frequency of Maruti Alto sales in India. Defeating rivals like Hyundai Eon, Maruti Alto went on to become the largest selling car across the globe for consecutive years and has been most-sold vehicle in the country since 7 years.
Maruti Alto Review by Expert
The auto market leader Maruti Suzuki had originally launched their bestselling car in the year 2000. The car that offered true value for money and was regarded as exceptional in every aspect since decades is expected to get some tough rivalry from its impending stable-mate Maruti Cervo, which expect a Diwali launch this year. Not only this long serving
Maruti Alto also got another jolt when its title of ‘bestselling car’ was taken away by Maruti Swift recently.
Its launch was basically a sort of up-gradation to that time’s bestselling car Maruti 800, which is still manufactured in small numbers. The Maruti Alto has been through a series of face lifts and modifications in the recent times. Currently, Maruti Alto competes with the likes of Hyundai Santro Xing, Hyundai EON and Chevrolet Spark.
The petrol version of the car comes powered by a 796cc, 3-cylinder, 4 -Valves per cylinder MPFI, FC engine that is capable of generating maximum power of 47 PS at 6200 rpm with a peak torque of 62 Nm torque at 3000 rpm. The car takes just 17.7 seconds to reach the speed mark of 100 km per hour, and has a top speed of 130 km/h. The
Maruti Alto Petrol offers a considerably high mileage of 19.73 km per liter. All petrol variant of the car are compatible with the new generation BS-IV emission norms in India.
The CNG variants of the car, which are called
Maruti Alto Green, carries a CNG kit fitted with its engine that is blessed with highly fuel efficient i-GPI technology. In the CNG mode, the Maruti Alto Green delivers a peak power of 39.4 PS at 6200 rpm along with a peak torque of 54 Nm at 3000 rpm. The Maruti Alto Green model delivers an exceptional fuel economy of 20.2 kg/km, offering a considerably lower running cost.
The major attractions of the car in terms of features include with iCATS or Intelligent Computerized Anti-theft System, collapsible steering column, tubeless tyres, AC with heater, Intelligent Drive Assist power steering, and booster assisted braking system, side impact beams and clean lens headlight carrying 4 - step leveling device, etc.
Maruti Alto Rivals
The largest selling small car in India-
Maruti Alto - enjoyed a rival-free life for nearly two decades apart from some namesake challengers from its own stable like Maruti Wagon R and Maruti Zen. But still a head-to-head competition was missed that came in the year 2011 in the form of Hyundai Eon. Compared to Maruti Alto, Hyundai Eon has got every aspect better than that of aged small car. Be it never before seen exteriors or spacious and feature filled interiors and on top that an unbeatable mileage, which has been unsurpassed for long by any car in segment.
The looks of Alto are a bit old-school sorts comparatively, while the fluidic designed Eon is mesmerizing from every angle. The compact size has made it a favorite for urban commuters, but what about long rides on highways, here Eon lacks and comes to rescue is old war horse Maruti Alto. The other issue with Eon is its acceleration that is not as good as Alto, whereas if talked about gear-shifting Hyundai small car scores over. Inside the car the seating arrangement and style will never make you realize that it’s a small car, against low quality and basic looking Maruti Alto’s. Coming to mileage part Korean mini offers better figures with 21.1 kmpl and Maruti Alto is just below with nearly 20 kmpl. But one can not forget the load dragging capacity of Maruti’s engine along with the nationwide service assurance after sales. Also the low maintenance has made it the favorite or the starters/first time car buyers and youngsters.
|
Maruti Alto Rivals Table |
|
Model |
Engine |
Mileage (City/Highway) |
Acceleration (0-100 kph) |
Unique features |
Price (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) |
|
Maruti Alto Petrol |
796 cc |
16.5 kmpl/ 19.7 kmpl |
20 seconds |
value for money, after sales service, low maintenance |
Rs 2.94 Lakh |
|
Maruti Alto CNG |
796 cc |
17 kmpkg/ 20.2 kmpkg |
20 seconds |
Rs 3.42 Lakh |
|
Hyundai Eon Petrol |
814 cc |
17.1 kmpl/ 21.1 kmpl |
19 seconds |
Fluidic design, spacious interiors, fuel efficiency |
Rs 3.48 Lakh |
|
Hyundai Eon LPG |
814 cc |
14 kmpkg/ 18 kmpkg |
19 seconds |
Rs 3.76 Lakh |
|
Maruti 800 Petrol |
796 cc |
16 kmpl/ 20 kmpl |
21 seconds |
cheap & best, tested for decades, iconic stature |
Rs 2.29 Lakh |
|
Maruti 800 LPG |
796 cc |
18 kmpkg/ 21 kmpkg |
21 seconds |
Rs 2.63 Lakh |
Maruti Alto Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
A considerably high mileage figure is a major factor behind the immense success of the Maruti Alto among the Indian buyers who are obsessed with the fuel economy of their cars. The petrol variant of Alto offers a fuel economy of 19.73 km per liter, thanks to the MPFI (Multi Point Fuel Injection) fuel supply system which makes sure that every drop of the fuel fully utilized. Moreover, a 32 bit on-board computer for dynamic computerized fuel injection further reduces the fuel consumption.
In CNG mode, the car offers an even higher fuel economy of up to 20.2 km per kg, thanks to i-GPI technology which is basically a Dual Engine Control Unit. The CNG version of the car has specially been offered for the buyers who prefer fuel economy over engine power. The engine power offered in the CNG model dips down to 39.4 PS at 6200 rpm and torque of 54 Nm at 3000 rpm. It, however, brings down your fuel expenses substantially as compared to the petrol variants, considering skyrocketing petrol prices in the country.
| Maruti Alto Models |
Mileage in City |
Mileage on Highway |
| Maruti Alto Petrol Models |
16.5 kmpl |
19.73 kmpl |
| Maruti Alto CNG Models |
17 km per Kg |
20.2 km per Kg |
Maruti Alto Models and Features
As mentioned above, the small car Alto is currently offered in six variants in the Indian auto market including Maruti Alto Green LX BS IV, Maruti Alto Green LXI BS IV, Maruti Alto Green Std. BS IV, Maruti Alto LX BS IV, Maruti Alto LXi BS IV and Maruti Alto STD BS IV. Below is a feature wise description of all these models.
| Models |
Special Features |
| Maruti Alto STD |
This is the base petrol variant of the Alto line-up in India that comes powered by a 796 CC engine. The major attractions of this variant include stylish front grille and bumper, luggage compartment, integrated front seats, molded carpet, electronic trip meter, etc. |
| Maruti Alto LX |
The Alto LX is the second form the base variant that carries the same engine unit as available in base variant. The LX variant of Maruti Alto carries a number of additional features including tinted glasses, rotary control of AC with heater, front floor console with cup holders, etc. |
| Maruti Alto LXI |
The Alto LXI is the top end variant of the Alto series that hosts a number of additional features as compared to the other variants. The additional features of the variant include remote fuel lid opener, integrated rear seat head restraints, electronic power steering, seats in fabric, etc. |
| Maruti Alto Green STD |
The Alto Green Std is the base CNG variant that is powered by a – petrol/CNG - dual fuel system. When in CNG mode, it delivers a peak power of 39.4 PS, along with a peak torque of 54 Nm. Apart from modified suspension and a few changes in the body, most of the features are same as in Maruti Alto Std. |
| Maruti Alto Green LX |
This mid version of Maruti Alto’s Green range, which ensures pretty fewer emissions, has got features that are more or less the same as Petrol LX model that comprise of engine immobilizer, fabric seats, child safety locks and tinted glasses along with electronic trip meter. |
| Maruti Alto Green LXI |
This is the top end variant of CNG version of the car that offers a considerably lower running cost as compared to the petrol variants of the car. The feature list of Alto Green LXI is more or less same as of its petrol counterpart. |
Maruti Alto Colors
India’s favorite entry level small car Maruti Alto is not only limited to proving with a reliable performance and frugal mileage but also way ahead when it comes to offering some exclusive shades. There are in all 6 colors available and that includes Ecru Beige, Fire Brick Red, Silky Silver, Midnight Black and Superior White along with Blue Blaze. In the Maruti Alto color lineup the best sellers are Superior White and Midnight Black.
Maruti Alto Engine, Power and Performance
Maruti Alto Petrol Models
As we have already mentioned in the overall section, the Alto model is available with a 796cc, 3-cylinder, 4 –Valves, MPFI, FC engine. The highly fuel efficient engine of the car is capable of delivering a maximum power output of 47 PS at 6200 rpm with a peak torque of 62 Nm torque at 3000 rpm. The engine of the car is compatible with the new Bharat Stage – IV emission norms, promising a very low carbon emission in the environment. All variants of the environment friendly and fuel efficient engine of Alto comes coupled with a five speed manual gearbox.
Maruti Alto CNG Models
The CNG version of the India’s largest selling car Maruti Alto carries a company fitted CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) kit that is coupled with i-GPI technology and is claimed to be leakage proof. While CNG model is on, the Alto Green model offers a peak power of 39.4 PS at 6200 rpm in combination with a peak torque of 54 Nm at 3000 rpm. Same as the petrol version, the CNG version is also compatible with the new BS – IV emission norms. A five speed manual gearbox is common across all the variants of the car.
Maruti Alto Pickup and Acceleration
Thanks to its considerably light weight, the Maruti Alto model takes just 17.7 seconds to break the speed barrier of 100 km per hour. A 32 bit on-board computer for dynamic computerized system makes sure a quick paddle response, proving highly essential in the bumper to bumper city traffic. Top speed of the car is 137 km per hour. As far as CNG variant of the car is concerned, it doesn’t offer as good acceleration and pick-up as of the petrol version, as the objective of CNG technology is to achieve higher fuel economy.
| Engine Variant |
Power (PS/RPM) |
Torque (NM/RPM) |
Acceleration (0-100 kph) |
Top Speed |
Transmission |
| Maruti Alto 0.8L Petrol |
47/ 6200 |
62/ 3000 |
17.7 Seconds |
137 kmph |
5-speed Manual Transmission |
| Maruti Alto 0.8L CNG |
39.4/ 6200 |
54/ 3000 |
18.5 Seconds |
137 kmph |
5-speed Manual Transmission |
Maruti Alto Interior and Features
The Maruti Alto small car has a seating capacity of 5 adults (including driver). It hosts a duel tone - Black & Gray - dash board and a well shelved set of dials and switches. The interior of the car look much more stylish as compared to the exterior of the car, thanks to the features like molded door trims with molded carpet, fabric upholstery and door trim fabric.
The Interior of the car is blessed with a range of comfort & convenience features including stylish speedometer and fuel gauge, digital fuel indicator, electronic tripmeter, intelligent drive assist power steering, front and rear cabin lamps, tinted glass and multi flow cooling AC with heater.
The Maruti Alto designers have made sure that each and every inch of the car’s interior space fully utilized, by offering a number storage spaces throughout that comprises of cup holders, glove box, Luggage Parcel tray, etc. Moreover, the boot has enough space to accommodate large size luggage.
The Maruti Alto model promised a high level of comfort and convenience for both passengers and driver, thanks to the features like AC with heater to keep the climate comfortable for passengers, outside rear view mirrors (ORVMs) for driving comfort, integrated front seats, and rear seat head rests etc. The Maruti Alto is comparatively spacious car in its segment as its dimensions are as follows - shoulder room of 1180 cm and knee room of 540 cm (min) to 810 cm (max).
Maruti Alto Exterior and Features
The idea behind the basic design of the Maruti Alto was to offer the Indian middle class something that look more urban and have a fascinating road presence. With the launch of Maruti Alto in the starting of last decade, the company has taken its designing initiative to a completely new horizon, much ahead as compared to the designing of its initial model Maruti 800.
The front profile of the car has been made stylish with the help of nice looking bumper, attractive front grille and clean lens headlights. However, the side profile could have been made more attractive by adding body color ORVMs and door handles. The car hosts black color door handles, 8 spoke cover for wheel arches and turn indicators at side panels. The rear part of the car carries stylish tail-lamps and a moderately designed tail gate. Overall, the exterior of Alto model prove highly moderate when compared to the same of its new age competitors like Chevrolet Spark and Hyundai EON.
The Maruti Alto falls in the category of India’s smallest cars. The exterior dimensions of the car are as follows - Length - 3495 mm; Width - 1475 mm; Height - 1460 mm; Wheelbase - 2360 mm. Moreover, the ground clearance of the car is 160mm and turning radius is 4.6 m.
Safety Features in Maruti Alto
A superior suspension system and a number of safety features make sure the Maruti Alto a safer and easy to handle car. The is loaded with Mc Pherson strut with torsion type roll control device at front and coil spring gas filled shock absorbers with three link rigid axle and isolated trailing arms at rear. With clear view tinted glasses and clear lens headlamps, the handling of the car become considerably easier in the city traffic.
On safety front, the Maruti Alto lacks many of the new age safety features including ABS and airbags. However, the features like Immobilizer iCATS and booster assisted brakes, headlamp leveling device, side impact beams, rear seat head restraints and seat belts for all passengers, make sure a safer drive for both driver and passengers. Even the CNG variant of Alto is one of the safest cars run on CNG in India with leak proof CNG kit, integrated wiring harness and toughened suspension.
Maruti Alto Driving & Handling
The Maruti portfolio cars in India have always been known for their being easy to drive and handle on Indian road conditions. With quick paddle response and effective braking system, the Maruti Alto can be handled very effectively, be it on high speeds or be it bumper to bumper traffic of cities. The Maruti Alto is blessed with an effective suspension system including Mc Pherson strut with torsion type roll control device at front and coil spring gas filled shock absorbers with three link rigid axle & isolated trailing arms, at the rear. Moreover, the four - step leveling in the clear lens headlamps offer a clear visibility while driving in low light conditions.
Maruti Alto Accessories
Though the company doesn’t offer any stereo or speakers with the standard package of Maruti Alto, but there are provisions both music system and surround sound effect speakers. Moreover, as far accessories are concerned, the company comes – up with free accessories offers with Maruti Alto time to time including floor mats, seat – covers, steering covers, car cover, and many more.
Maruti Alto Conclusion
There is no second thought that even today Maruti Alto is the bestselling car in the country. The sales has always seen an upward movement, be it sluggish market or festive season, it has always enjoyed mammoth numbers since its launch a decade back. The small car from the reliable den of No.1 automaker, Maruti, has proven its mettle against competitors like Hyundai Eon and Tata Nano in India.
It has been admired for its outstanding blend of well-organized performance, high fuel efficiency and affordable price. What adds glitter to the gold is the superior after sales service assurance from the company, easy availability of spares alongside exceptional resale value. Now, a chapter will begin with the launch of Maruti Alto 800 in India, with a under Rs 2 Lakh price tag it is expected to sell like hot cakes. Though the new generation cars like Hyundai’s Eon and Chevrolet Spark, have been rivaling aggressively with the Alto, but these models are not likely to pose any threat to the supremacy of small car king Maruti Alto in near future.
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