New Delhi. Small cars have dominated the automotive sector in India for a long time. Small cars like Maruti Suzuki 800, Hyundai Santro and Tata Indica have been widely liked by the people. Although relatively larger cars are now dominating the market, there is one model that has broken all sales records and touched heights that will probably never be seen again. That model is Maruti Suzuki Alto.
Launched 25 years ago
Maruti Suzuki India launched Alto in 2000. And the rest, as they say, is history. So far, the country's largest car manufacturer has sold 47 lakh units of this entry-level model. Alto was India's best selling car for 13 consecutive years from 2005 to 2017. It again became the best selling car in 2019.
Shut down in 2023
Although Maruti Suzuki discontinued the Alto 800 in 2023 after selling around 35 lakh units, the Alto K10 carried forward its legacy. To keep this model competitive in its segment, Maruti Suzuki has recently reduced its prices after the adjustment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates. Alto K10 now starts at Rs 3,69,900 and goes up to Rs 5,44,900 (ex-showroom).
1.0-litre 3-cylinder K10C engine
The Alto K10 is powered by a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder K10C engine, which develops 68bhp of maximum power and 91Nm of peak torque. Transmission options include 5-speed MT and 5-speed AMT. There is also a CNG option (56bhp and 82Nm) with 5-speed MT. Like most Maruti Suzuki cars, the Alto K10 is also known for its excellent mileage. The mileage of Alto K10 is said to be 24.39kmpl for Petrol MT, 24.90kmpl for Petrol AMT and 33.40kmpkg for CNG MT.
Ahead of Wagon R and Swift
Apart from great mileage, the Alto K10 also offers great features for the entry-level model. It has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, multi-function steering wheel, six airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD and reverse parking sensors. Recently, Maruti Suzuki achieved the total domestic milestone of 3 crore units, with the Alto brand contributing the highest among all cars and way ahead of other models like WagonR (34 lakh units) and Swift (32 lakh units).