Alto 800 Full Information: The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is one of the most iconic and successful entry-level hatchbacks in India. For over two decades, the Alto name has been synonymous with affordability, reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance. Even today, the Alto 800 remains a popular choice for first-time car buyers, small families, and people looking for a dependable city car with minimal ownership costs.
In this detailed article, we will cover everything about the Alto 800 — from its design, engine, mileage, safety features, variants, pricing, ownership experience, advantages, disadvantages, maintenance costs, and why it continues to be relevant in the Indian automobile market.
Alto 800 Full Information .Overview of Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
- Car Name: Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
- Body Type: Hatchback
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Transmission: Manual
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Target Buyers: First-time buyers, city commuters, budget-focused users
The Alto 800 is designed to offer basic mobility with maximum value, keeping costs low while delivering Maruti Suzuki’s trusted reliability.
Design and Exterior Styling
Compact Yet Practical Design
The Alto 800 features a simple, functional, and compact design, making it ideal for congested city roads and tight parking spaces.
Key exterior highlights include:
- Rounded headlamps with a friendly front look
- Compact front grille with Maruti Suzuki logo
- Clean body lines for better aerodynamics
- Small footprint for easy maneuverability
While the design is not aggressive or sporty, it focuses on practicality and ease of use, which suits its target audience.
Dimensions
- Length: Approx. 3445 mm
- Width: Approx. 1515 mm
- Height: Approx. 1475 mm
- Wheelbase: Approx. 2360 mm
- Ground Clearance: Around 160 mm
These dimensions make the Alto 800 perfect for urban driving, narrow lanes, and daily commuting.
Interior and Cabin Experience
Simple and Functional Cabin
The interior of the Alto 800 follows a minimalistic and functional layout. It is designed to keep manufacturing costs low while offering essential comfort.
Interior features include:
- Dual-tone dashboard (in newer variants)
- Digital speedometer
- Manual air conditioning
- Front power windows (select variants)
- Basic music system support
The cabin materials are basic but durable, suitable for long-term daily use.
Seating Comfort and Space
- Comfortable front seats for city drives
- Adequate headroom for average-height passengers
- Rear seat best suited for short to medium journeys
While it cannot match premium hatchbacks in space, the Alto 800 offers acceptable comfort for its price segment.
Engine and Performance
Petrol Engine Specifications
The Alto 800 is powered by a 0.8-liter, 3-cylinder petrol engine.
Engine details:
- Engine Capacity: 796 cc
- Power Output: Around 48 PS
- Torque: Around 69 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
This engine is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth city performance, not high-speed driving.
Driving Experience
- Smooth and light steering
- Easy clutch operation
- Ideal for beginners
- Best suited for city speeds
The Alto 800 performs well in traffic conditions and daily commuting scenarios.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Petrol Mileage
- ARAI Certified Mileage: Approx. 22–24 km/l
- Real-World Mileage: Around 18–21 km/l (city conditions)
CNG Mileage
- ARAI Certified Mileage: Around 31 km/kg
The Alto 800 is known for being one of the most fuel-efficient cars in India, making it extremely economical for daily use.
Variants and Options
The Alto 800 is offered in multiple variants to suit different budgets.
Common variant categories:
- Standard/Base Variant – Basic features
- Mid Variant – Added comfort features
- Top Variant – Music system, power windows, central locking
- CNG Variant – Factory-fitted CNG option
This allows buyers to choose a version that matches their requirements and budget.
Safety Features
Standard Safety Features
Maruti Suzuki has improved safety compliance over the years.
Key safety features include:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Seat belt reminders
- Speed alert system
While it does not offer advanced safety technology, it meets mandatory Indian safety regulations.
Maintenance and Ownership Cost
Low Maintenance Advantage
One of the biggest strengths of the Alto 800 is its low ownership cost.
- Affordable spare parts
- Widely available service centers
- Simple mechanical design
- Low service charges
Service Cost
- Average annual maintenance cost: Very low compared to most cars
- Suitable for long-term ownership
Maruti Suzuki’s vast service network ensures peace of mind even in smaller cities and towns.
Price and Value for Money
Ex-Showroom Price (Approximate)
The Alto 800 is priced competitively, making it one of the most affordable cars in India.
- Petrol Variant: Entry-level pricing
- CNG Variant: Slightly higher due to CNG kit
(Prices may vary by location and time.)
For budget-conscious buyers, the Alto 800 delivers exceptional value for money.
Advantages of Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Low purchase and maintenance cost
- Easy to drive for beginners
- Reliable engine
- Strong resale value
- Wide service network
Disadvantages of Alto 800
- Basic interior quality
- Limited rear seat space
- Not suitable for highway performance
- Fewer premium features
Despite these limitations, the Alto 800 remains practical for its intended purpose.
Who Should Buy the Alto 800?
The Alto 800 is ideal for:
- First-time car buyers
- Small families
- Daily city commuters
- Budget-focused users
- People looking for a second car
It is not designed for performance enthusiasts or luxury seekers.
Alto 800 vs Other Entry-Level Cars
Compared to other budget hatchbacks, the Alto 800 stands out due to:
- Lower running costs
- Proven reliability
- Strong brand trust
While competitors may offer more features, the Alto focuses on core usability and economy.
Long-Term Reliability and Resale Value
The Alto series has a strong resale market in India.
Reasons:
- High demand for used Alto cars
- Easy availability of spare parts
- Trusted Maruti Suzuki brand
This makes it a smart long-term investment for budget buyers.
Environmental and Emission Compliance
- BS6 compliant engine
- Reduced emissions
- Improved fuel efficiency
The CNG variant further reduces running costs and emissions.
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 continues to be one of India’s most trusted and practical entry-level cars. It may not offer luxury or advanced features, but it excels in what truly matters for budget buyers — affordability, efficiency, reliability, and ease of ownership.
For anyone looking to buy a simple, economical, and dependable car, the Alto 800 remains a sensible and time-tested choice.