Maruti Suzuki Alto Review

Maruti Alto is India’s largest selling car was launched in September 2000 in two engine versions of 796 cc, 3 cylinder Petrol as LX and LXi models and 1061 cc , 4 cylinder Petrol Vx and Vxi models . Internally known as Model “A” it was fourth generation Alto to be launched in Japan in 1998 to meet the new small car ( Kei-jidosha) regulations in Japan.

Maruti Suzuki had tried to fill up space between its bread and butter Maruti 800 and its other models in B segment namely Zen, Wagon R and also its competitors in B segment at that time Hyundai’s Santro, Tata’s Indica and Daewoo’s Matiz. Latter the 4 cylinder model was withdrawn and Maruti Alto created a new segment A2 for itself between Maruti 800 and B segment subcompacts.

It was no surprise that Maruti Alto become largest selling car with Indian economy growing and growing car demand from smaller cities, town and rural India. Maruti Alto is largest selling car for more than three year and have produced over a million in India out of which over 1,50,000 units has been exported to Srilanka, Chile, Netherland and many more countries. In 2006-7 it became the first car in India’s Auto history to sell more than 200,000 units.

Five door hatchback Maurti Alto is powered by 796 cc, 3 cylinders, FC engine has 4 valves per cylinder powered by Multi Point Fuel Injection system with 32 bit computer. It delivers maximum power of 47 PS ( 35 Kw) @ 6200 rpm and maximum torque of 62 Nm@3000 rpm, a marked improvement on same size engine used in Maruti 800. Maruti Alto has 5 speed manual transmissions. It has McPherson with torsion type roll control device in front and coil spring gas filled shock absorber with three link axle and isolated trailing arms.

Though it is certified for 5 persons but due to small size three persons at back is rather cramp for space. The car has best millage and low ownership cost making it appealing to the customers. The car is available in base model, Lx and Lxi giving options of air-conditioning, electronic power steering , collapsible steering column, side impact beams and factory fitted iCats , which is an anti theft feature. The top end Lxi seems to be outselling the other variants.

Maruti Alto has won number of awards since its launch in India and all over the world.

The car will continue to sell as it has no virtual competition in its category. Suzuki motors unveiled a seventh generation Alto at Paris Auto Show 2008 based on the A star concept introduced last year. This car is expected to be launched in India. This stylistic car with upgraded power train will come in A2 segment or B segment will be seen.

Maruti Suzuki Alto Prices

Maruti Alto Mileage, Fuel Economy

Maruti Suzuki Alto Specifications, Maruti Suzuki Alto Specs

DIMENSIONS
Overall length: 3495 mm
Overall width: 1475 mm
Overall height: 1460 mm
Wheelbase: 2360 mm
Tread Front: 1295 mm
Rear: 1290 mm
Minimum turning radius: 4.6 m
Ground clearance: 160 mm

ENGINE
Swept volume: 796cc
Engine type: FC engine, 4 valves Per cylinder MPFI
No. of cylinders: 3
Engine control: 32 bit computer
Maximum power: 47 ps @ 6200 rpm
Maximum torque: 62 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Transmission: 5 speed, all synchromesh, manual

SUSPENSION SYSTEM
Front: McPherson Strut with torsion type roll control device
Rear: Coil spring gas filled shock absorbers with three link rigid axle and isolated trailing arms

SEATING
Capacity: 5 persons

TYRES
Tyre size: 145 / 80 R12