Words by Abhishek Wairagade
The Alto 800 received minor updates both on the exteriors and interiors to keep it relevant for 2016. The frugal hatch has become even more fuel-efficient with Maruti Suzuki claiming a mileage hike by 9 per cent. The ARAI claimed figure now stands at 24.77kmpl for the petrol version and 33.4km/kg for the CNG version.
Talking about exteriors, one would have to pay close attention to detail to make out the difference. The Alto 800 gets a new front fascia with restyled bumpers. The front bumper incorporates a larger grille along with a new headlamp design. There’s also a provision for fog lamps now, but they won’t come factory fitted , unlike the Kwid or redi-Go. The fog lamps can be fitted at the dealership instead. The car also gets adjustable ORVMs as standard fitment. Overall length of the car has increased by 35 mm, in spite of which the Alto 800 remains the smallest car in its class.
Maruti Suzuki claims to have liberated space on the inside by using slimmer doorpads. There are more storage spaces on the inside now along with a new trim design for door pads and the seats. The rear seats get head restraints as standard.
The Alto 800 gets the option of a driver-side airbag, at an extra price of Rs 6000 on all variants. It misses out on ABS, though Maruti Suzuki claims the car to have improved braking ability. Both the rear doors now come equipped with a child lock. The VXi variant also gets keyless entry.
The car is now offered in new colours, Cerulean Blue and Mojito Green (a la Datsun redi-Go). Prices for the face lifted Alto 800 have been reduced as well and now start at Rs 2.49 lakh.
Prices:
STD: Rs 2.49 lakh
LX: Rs 2.83 lakh
LXI: Rs 3.09 lakh
LXI CNG: Rs 3.70 lakh
VXI: Rs 3.28 lakh
(All prices ex-showroom Delhi)