When we talk about affordable and reliable cars in India, one name that instantly comes to mind is the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800. It has been a favorite among small families and first-time car buyers for many years. Now, Maruti Suzuki has brought a new version of the Alto 800, keeping the budget-friendly tag alive. With a starting price of just ₹3.5 lakh and an EMI option of ₹6,500 per month, this car is once again ready to rule the entry-level car segment.
The new Alto 800 is more stylish, fuel-efficient, and packed with practical features, making it a perfect family car for city use and even small highway trips. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this little car a big deal.
Overview Table – New Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Starting at ₹3.5 Lakh |
| EMI Option | From ₹6,500/Month |
| Engine | 796 cc Petrol Engine |
| Power Output | 48 PS @ 6000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Mileage | 22–24 km/l (Petrol) |
| Seating Capacity | 4–5 People |
| Boot Space | 177 Litres |
| Safety Features | Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, Rear Parking Sensors |
| Variants Available | Standard, LXI, VXI, VXI+ |
Design & Style
The new Maruti Alto 800 carries a fresh look while still keeping its compact charm alive. The front fascia comes with a modern grille and sharper headlamps that give the car a slightly bold appearance. The compact dimensions make it easy to drive and park in tight city spaces, which is one of the biggest reasons people love this car.
Inside, the cabin is kept simple but functional. You get enough space for four adults, and the improved fabric seats make short journeys comfortable. The dashboard layout is neat, and higher variants get a basic infotainment unit. Maruti has managed to balance simplicity with a touch of modernity.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Alto 800 is powered by a 796 cc petrol engine that produces 48 PS of power and 69 Nm of torque. It may not sound like much, but for a small hatchback designed for city drives, it is more than enough.
The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, which shifts smoothly. The car is not meant for high-speed performance, but in daily traffic and city conditions, it is quick, responsive, and very easy to handle.
Ride & Handling
The Alto 800 is known for its light steering and compact body, which makes driving stress-free. Maneuvering through busy streets, narrow lanes, or even parking in crowded markets is effortless. The suspension setup is tuned for Indian roads, so it can easily handle small potholes and uneven roads.
At higher speeds, the car does feel light, but considering its purpose as a budget family hatchback, it delivers a balanced ride quality.
Features & Tech
Maruti has kept the feature list simple but practical. Depending on the variant you choose, the Alto 800 offers:
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Dual front airbags
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ABS with EBD
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Rear parking sensors
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Digital instrument cluster (in top variants)
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Manual AC and heater
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Infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity (VXI+ variant)
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Power windows in the front
Though it does not come with high-tech gadgets, the car has all the essentials that a small family would need in daily life.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Mileage is one of the biggest reasons why people buy Alto, and the new Alto 800 does not disappoint. With its 22–24 km/l fuel efficiency (ARAI-certified), the running cost is extremely low. This makes it a pocket-friendly car for families who have daily commutes or those looking for a second car for city use.
Price & Variants
The new Alto 800 is priced very attractively.
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Standard Variant – ₹3.5 lakh
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LXI Variant – Around ₹3.8 lakh
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VXI Variant – Around ₹4 lakh
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VXI+ Variant – Around ₹4.2 lakh
With an EMI starting from just ₹6,500 per month, the Alto 800 becomes an accessible choice even for those who are buying their first car.
FAQs
Q1. Is the new Maruti Alto 800 good for long drives?
It is mainly designed for city and short highway runs. For long drives, comfort may feel limited, but it can still handle the job if needed.
Q2. Does it come in CNG option?
Yes, Maruti usually offers a CNG variant in the Alto line-up, which is more fuel-efficient and cost-saving.
Q3. How safe is the Alto 800?
The car comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors as standard safety features, which is good for an entry-level hatchback.
Q4. How many people can comfortably sit in the Alto 800?
It is best suited for four adults, though technically it can seat five.
Final Verdict
The new Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is not about luxury or advanced features. Instead, it is about practicality, affordability, and reliability. With a starting price of ₹3.5 lakh and an EMI of just ₹6,500 per month, it gives middle-class families the chance to own a safe, fuel-efficient, and stylish car without stretching their budget.