Maruti Alto All Set for a Total Makeover This Year

Maruti Suzuki Alto is one of the most popular cars in Indian Market. This entry-level car from Maruti Suzuki is one of the highest selling cars in the country. News is coming that this small hatchback is all set to get an update this year. According to ET Auto, Maruti Suzuki is modernising the hatchback with a new BS VI engine, enhanced safety features, exterior and interior upgrades. The new Alto is likely to be launched by the end of this year.

Maruti Suzuki had launched Alto in 2000 and it has been the best-selling car for the brand for many years. It later lost its crown to the bigger sibling Maruti Dzire. It was brought in as a more spacious and comfortable alternative to the then entry-level car Maruti 800. Over the years, Alto has replaced 800 and has become company’s entry-level model.

The design of the Alto has also gone through a major overhaul over the years and looks quite different from the original design. More than 35 lakh Maruti Alto’s are sold so far.  Maruti is under pressure to give the Alto an upgrade as the design of the outgoing model feels a bit outdated and the competitors in the segment have either upgraded the existing cars or have come up with new models.

Ever since its launch, the Renault Kwid with its SUVish looks and modern features like touchscreen infotainment system is giving the Maruti Alto tough competition.  Maruti officials have said “With a lot of customers coming from younger generation, the company wants to upgrade the model with modern specs, including modern in-car entertainment.”

They have also said that heavy changes will be made in Alto’s design in view of growing competition in the hatchback segment. The new Alto will also be more safe and secure and will comply with the latest crash test norms.
The current generation Alto is powered by an 800-cc three cylinder petrol engine producing 448 Bhp and 69 Nm of torque.

Maruti Suzuki also sells a CNG version of the same. It competes with cars like Renault Kwid, Datsun Redi-Go and Hyundai Eon. Maruti Suzuki will also try to keep the price of the upcoming Alto similar to the existing line-up. As for pricing, the new Alto is expected to be positioned similar to the outgoing model. The new car will continue to be Maruti’s least expensive model, and one of India’s most affordable cars.