Ever wanted a small car that’s easy on the pocket but does its daily job without fuss?
The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 has been that car for millions. Known for its compact size, good mileage, and simple nature, the Alto 800 is still one of India’s favourite entry-level hatchbacks. From students to small families, it’s the go-to choice for reliable city driving on a budget.
Here’s why the Alto 800 continues to stay relevant even as new cars keep entering the market.
What Is Maruti Suzuki Alto 800?
The Alto 800 is Maruti’s entry-level hatchback that has won hearts for over two decades. It replaced the old Maruti 800 with a fresh look, more space, and a fuel-efficient 796cc petrol engine.
This car is built for easy driving in crowded cities, narrow lanes, and tight parking spots. Its size makes it perfect for first-time car owners or families who want a simple, fuss-free ride.
Why Pick Maruti Suzuki Alto 800?
The biggest reason? Peace of mind. The Alto 800 is easy to buy, cheap to run, and light on maintenance. Parts are widely available and Maruti’s service network covers even small towns.
Second, its compact size makes driving stress-free, especially for new drivers. You won’t feel nervous squeezing through tight traffic or finding parking in busy markets.
Third, it’s fuel-efficient. Whether you choose petrol or CNG, the Alto 800 sips fuel lightly — helping you save every month.
Top Features You’ll Love
Don’t expect fancy gadgets here. The Alto 800 keeps it simple but useful:
- Compact 796cc engine with peppy performance for the city
- Driver airbag and ABS (in latest versions)
- Smart front grille and fresh design
- Simple dashboard with easy controls
- Manual AC and power steering in higher variants
- Optional CNG kit for extra savings
For its price, the Alto 800 gives just what you need without overcomplicating things.
Mileage and Performance
The Alto 800 is famous for its fuel economy. On petrol, it gives around 22-24 kmpl. The factory-fitted CNG version pushes that to nearly 31-33 km/kg — which is a blessing for daily city use.
The small engine makes 48 PS and 69 Nm torque — enough for city runs and occasional highway trips. It feels light and easy to handle, even for new drivers.
Design and Looks
The Alto 800 keeps its cute and compact look. The latest model gets a fresh grille, slightly tweaked headlamps, and subtle body lines that make it look modern but not flashy.
Inside, the cabin is simple but has enough space for four adults. The seats are basic but comfortable enough for short city rides.
Who Should Buy Maruti Suzuki Alto 800?
The Alto 800 is perfect for first-time buyers, students, small families, and even seniors who want an easy-to-drive car for daily chores.
If you want an affordable city car that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, this is it. It’s also a good second car for families who need a small runabout for errands.
How Does It Compare?
In the entry-level segment, the Alto 800’s rivals are the Renault Kwid, Datsun Redi-GO, and Maruti’s own S-Presso.
The Kwid scores on style with its SUV-like look, but the Alto 800 wins with Maruti’s trusted network and cheaper parts. The S-Presso offers more features but at a slightly higher price.
If your priority is pure budget driving with easy upkeep, the Alto 800 still tops the list.
Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Vs Rivals
Here’s how the Alto 800 compares with its closest rivals:
| Feature | Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 | Renault Kwid | Maruti S-Presso |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 796cc petrol | 799cc petrol | 998cc petrol |
| Power | 48 PS | 54 PS | 67 PS |
| Mileage (Petrol) | ~22-24 kmpl | ~22 kmpl | ~21 kmpl |
| CNG Option | Yes | No | Yes |
| Boot Space | 177 litres | 279 litres | 270 litres |
| Price (approx.) | ₹3.5 lakh onwards | ₹4.7 lakh onwards | ₹4.3 lakh onwards |
The table shows why the Alto 800 is still unbeatable when every rupee counts.
Final Thoughts
The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 has stuck around for a reason — it’s simple, reliable, and saves money while doing its daily job perfectly. It might not turn heads, but it keeps your wallet happy and your daily rides stress-free.
If you want a no-nonsense city car that just works, the Alto 800 is a safe bet.
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Disclaimer: Prices and specs may change. Always check Maruti Suzuki’s official site or your nearest dealer for exact details and deals.