The Maruti Alto, a name synonymous with affordability and reliability in the Indian automotive landscape, has undergone a significant transformation. This iconic hatchback, which has been a staple on Indian roads for decades, has been reimagined to meet the evolving needs of modern drivers while staying true to its core values.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the various aspects of the new Maruti Alto, exploring how it aims to maintain its position as India’s favorite small car.
Design Evolution
The new Maruti Alto showcases a bold departure from its predecessor’s design language. The exterior has been crafted to appeal to a younger, more style-conscious audience without alienating its loyal customer base.
The front fascia features a redesigned grille, which gives the car a more assertive presence on the road. The headlamps have been reshaped, incorporating LED daytime running lights on higher trims, adding a touch of premium feel to this budget-friendly offering.
The side profile retains the Alto’s compact dimensions but introduces more pronounced character lines, lending a sense of dynamism to the overall silhouette. The wheel arches are slightly more pronounced, accommodating larger wheel options on select variants. At the rear, the taillights have been redesigned, complementing the front design and creating a cohesive look.
Interior Comfort
Step inside the new Alto, and you’re greeted by a cabin that strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The dashboard layout has been optimized for ease of use, with a driver-centric design that puts all controls within easy reach. The use of improved materials is evident, with better quality plastics and fabrics enhancing the overall feel of the interior.
The seats have been redesigned for better comfort during long drives, addressing a common critique of the previous model. Rear passenger space, while still compact given the car’s overall dimensions, has been marginally improved through clever packaging.
Performance and Efficiency
The new Maruti Alto continues to offer a range of efficient powertrains tailored for urban driving conditions. The base variant comes equipped with a refined version of the tried-and-tested 796cc, three-cylinder petrol engine. This unit has been further optimized for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers.
For those seeking more power, Maruti Suzuki has introduced a more potent 1.0-liter K10C engine option. This powerplant not only offers enhanced performance but also comes with the option of factory-fitted CNG, catering to the growing demand for alternative fuel vehicles in India.
Transmission Choices
Recognizing the diverse needs of its customer base, the new Alto offers multiple transmission options. The standard 5-speed manual gearbox continues to be available, known for its smooth shifts and fuel-efficient operation.
However, in a significant move to attract urban buyers, Maruti has also introduced an automated manual transmission (AMT) option on select variants, enhancing the car’s appeal in congested city driving conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the Alto’s longstanding strengths has been its impressive fuel economy, and the new model aims to set new benchmarks in this area.
The base 796cc engine boasts a claimed fuel efficiency of up to 22.05 km/l, while the more powerful 1.0-liter unit is not far behind, offering up to 21.79 km/l. The CNG variant takes efficiency to new heights, with a claimed figure of 31.59 km/kg.
Technology and Features
In a significant upgrade, the new Alto now comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims.
This system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, bringing smartphone integration to this segment. The interface is intuitive, with large icons and a responsive touch surface, making it easy to navigate even for tech-novice users.
Safety Features
Safety has been given paramount importance in the new Alto. Standard safety features across all variants include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors.
Higher trims also offer a reverse parking camera, making maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The car’s body structure has been reinforced to meet the latest safety norms, providing enhanced protection in the event of a collision.
Convenience Features
The new Alto doesn’t skimp on convenience features either. Keyless entry, power windows, and electrically adjustable outside mirrors are available on mid and top-tier variants. The steering wheel now comes with mounted audio and phone controls, allowing for safer operation while driving.
Driving Dynamics
The new Alto’s suspension setup has been fine-tuned to offer a balance between comfort and handling. The car feels more planted on the road compared to its predecessor, inspiring confidence at higher speeds. In the city, the light steering and tight turning radius make it a joy to maneuver through traffic and into tight parking spots.
NVH Levels
Significant improvements have been made in the area of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). Better insulation materials and improved engine mounts result in a quieter cabin, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Variants and Pricing
The new Maruti Alto is offered in a range of variants to cater to different budget and feature requirements. From the no-frills base model to the fully-loaded top-end variant, there’s an Alto for every type of buyer.
Pricing remains competitive, starting from approximately ₹3.5 lakhs for the base variant and going up to around ₹5.5 lakhs for the top-end model (ex-showroom prices).
Environmental Considerations
In line with growing environmental concerns, Maruti Suzuki has made efforts to reduce the Alto’s carbon footprint. The use of recyclable materials has been increased, and the manufacturing process has been optimized to reduce waste. The CNG variant offers a cleaner alternative for environmentally conscious buyers.
Market Position and Competition
The new Alto enters a market that has seen increased competition in recent years. While it continues to dominate the entry-level hatchback segment, it now faces challenges from rivals like the Renault Kwid and Datsun redi-GO. However, Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network and the Alto’s strong brand recall give it a significant advantage.
New Maruti Alto
The new Maruti Alto represents a significant step forward for India’s beloved hatchback. It successfully modernizes the Alto formula without losing sight of what made it popular in the first place – affordability, reliability, and efficiency. With its refreshed design, improved features, and enhanced safety, the new Alto is well-positioned to continue its reign as India’s favorite small car.
While it may not be the most exciting car on the market, it excels at its intended purpose – providing reliable, efficient, and now, more modern transportation for the masses. For first-time car buyers, small families, or those looking for an efficient second car, the new Maruti Alto presents a compelling package that’s hard to overlook.
As India’s automotive landscape continues to evolve, the new Alto stands as a testament to Maruti Suzuki’s ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to its core values. It’s not just a car; it’s a continuation of a legacy that has played a significant role in India’s mobility story.