Maruti unveils new Alto 800, to launch on Oct 16

Maruti Suzuki's Alto has been its best-selling car for the last 12 years. Now, Maruti is looking to recreate this magic with its all new Alto-800

The new Alto800, is taller, sleeker and way sportier to look at than the previous generation Alto, thanks mainly to higher-mounted headlights, a chrome strip running across its front grille, and sculpted bumpers. All this in an attempt to rework the magic the Alto created, over a 12-year reign as Maruti's top-selling product.

C V Raman, executive officer-engineering, R&D, says that the Alto800 is the largest selling model in India and we wanted to refresh the model, we wanted to bring in the new model, we wanted to give it better comfort, better design to our customer, to our loyal and new customers.

Maruti SuzukiMaruti has also spent considerable time refreshing the interiors. With all-new dual tone upholstery, a new dashboard that has been raised at the centre to accommodate the aircon vents. And a much nicer-looking Suzuki badge on the steering wheel.

And with the top-end version sporting a driver airbag and optional ABS, Maruti is looking to hook not just first-time car buyers, but also youngsters.

Looking at students, Maruti hopes that sales will be more than Alto but the new Alto scores over the old version in more than just appearance.

The headroom has been increased by 23mm & there's a lot of legroom which is increased by around 15mm & that's thanks to the seats that have been scooped in just like in the Alto K10.

Powering this Alto800 is a 796cc, the new engine produces 48PS of power & 69NM of torque, that is 11% more than the Alto that we already drive & that enhances drivability considerably. Now this Alto800 is mated to a 5 speed manual transmission & this gearbox is extremely precise.

Maruti claims that this new Alto 800 will offer 22.74kmpl which is 15% more efficiency than the previous generation Alto. The car will be available in three petrol variants, and three CNG variants. While the price is expected in the range of Rs 2.5-3 lakh, Maruti        will formally launch the new Alto800 on 16th October.