Maruti Suzuki’s Alto 800 has been one of the most iconic small cars in India, known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Over the years, the Alto 800 has catered to millions of Indian families and first-time car buyers, offering a dependable driving experience. However, with changing automotive trends and government regulations, Maruti Suzuki has discontinued the production of the Alto 800, shifting its focus to the Alto K10 and other modern offerings.
For those who still wish to buy a used Alto 800, understanding its last known specifications and features is crucial. Let’s take a deep dive into what made this car so popular and why it remains relevant in the second-hand car market.
Maruti Alto 800: Last Known Specifications
Engine & Performance
The Maruti Alto 800 was powered by a 796 cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine that delivered a modest yet efficient performance. It produced 47.3 bhp @ 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 69 Nm @ 3500 rpm. The Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) system ensured optimal fuel delivery and efficiency, making it a budget-friendly choice for daily commuters.
The engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, providing smooth gear shifts and a balanced driving experience in city conditions. Although not designed for high-speed performance, the Alto 800 excelled in urban environments with its compact size and fuel-efficient nature.
Mileage & Fuel Economy
One of the primary reasons for the Alto 800’s immense popularity was its exceptional mileage.
- Petrol Variant: Approximately 22 kmpl
- CNG Variant: Approximately 31.59 km/kg
The CNG option made the Alto 800 a top pick for budget-conscious buyers looking to minimize running costs.
Dimensions & Weight
The compact dimensions of the Alto 800 made it an ideal city car, capable of navigating through tight spaces and crowded traffic with ease.
- Length: 3445 mm
- Width: 1515 mm
- Height: 1475 mm
- Wheelbase: 2360 mm
- Ground Clearance: 160 mm
- Kerb Weight: Approx. 730 kg
The lightweight body contributed to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency while ensuring easy maneuverability.
Brakes & Suspension
To ensure a stable ride, the Alto 800 was equipped with:
- Front Brakes: Disc
- Rear Brakes: Drum
- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut
- Rear Suspension: 3-link rigid axle suspension
While the braking system was standard for an entry-level hatchback, it provided decent stopping power, complemented by ABS with EBD in later variants.
Safety Features
Although not known for being feature-rich, the Alto 800 provided essential safety features, including:
- Dual front airbags (available in higher variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
These features made the car safer for budget-conscious buyers who still wanted basic protection while driving.
Comfort & Convenience Features
Despite being a budget-friendly hatchback, Maruti Suzuki equipped the Alto 800 with enough features to make city drives comfortable:
- Air conditioning (standard in most variants)
- Power steering (available in higher trims)
- Front power windows
- Central locking
Infotainment System
Depending on the variant, the Alto 800 offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support in higher trims. However, lower-end models featured a basic music system with USB and AUX connectivity.
Why Consider a Used Maruti Alto 800?
Although Maruti Suzuki has phased out the Alto 800, it remains a fantastic option for those looking for a budget-friendly used car. Here’s why:
1. Affordability
Used Alto 800 models are available at affordable prices, making them a great option for first-time car buyers and those on a tight budget.
2. Excellent Fuel Efficiency
With 22 kmpl (petrol) and 31.59 km/kg (CNG) mileage, the Alto 800 ensures low running costs.
3. Easy Maintenance
Maruti Suzuki’s wide service network ensures that spare parts and servicing for the Alto 800 are easily accessible and cost-effective.
4. Compact Design for City Driving
Its small size and lightweight build make it perfect for navigating congested city streets and tight parking spaces.
5. Reliable Performance
The Alto 800’s simple and durable engine ensures a hassle-free ownership experience with minimal maintenance.
Key Considerations Before Buying a Used Alto 800
1. Discontinuation & Availability of Spare Parts
Since the Alto 800 is no longer in production, buyers should ensure that spare parts are available before making a purchase. Fortunately, Maruti Suzuki’s service network still supports the model.
2. Condition & Service History
A well-maintained Alto 800 can last for years. Always check the service history and have the car inspected before buying.
3. CNG vs. Petrol Variant
While the CNG variant offers lower running costs, it may have slightly reduced power output compared to the petrol version.
4. Safety Features
Base variants might lack essential safety features like dual airbags and ABS. Opt for higher trims for better protection.
The Shift to Maruti Alto K10
With the discontinuation of the Alto 800, Maruti Suzuki now focuses on the Alto K10, which offers:
- A more powerful 1.0L K-Series engine
- Improved features & safety
- Better mileage & performance
While the Alto K10 is a step up from the Alto 800, the latter remains an excellent used-car choice for budget buyers.
Conclusion: Should You Buy a Used Maruti Alto 800?
If you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and reliable car for city driving, the Maruti Alto 800 is still a strong contender in the used car market. Its compact size, excellent mileage, and low maintenance costs make it an ideal pick for students, small families, and first-time car owners.
However, if you prefer a more modern car with updated features, you might want to explore the Maruti Alto K10 or other entry-level hatchbacks.
Would you consider buying a used Maruti Alto 800, or would you opt for a newer model? Let us know in the comments!