Maruti Alto 800 – India’s Budget-Friendly Hatchback with 32KMPL Mileage & Compact Design
The Maruti Alto 800 has been one of the most popular entry-level cars in India for many years. Known for its affordable price, fuel efficiency, and simple design, this small hatchback continues to be the first choice for many families and new drivers. With its latest updates, the Alto 800 brings better mileage, improved features, and the same dependable performance that has made it a household name.
For buyers who want a budget-friendly car that is easy to drive and maintain, the Alto 800 remains a smart option. Let’s take a closer look at what this compact hatchback has to offer.
Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Car Name | Maruti Alto 800 |
| Segment | Entry-Level Hatchback |
| Seating Capacity | 5-Seater |
| Engine Options | 796cc Petrol, CNG option |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Mileage | Up to 32 km/l (CNG) |
| Key Features | Compact design, Affordable maintenance, Good mileage |
| Price Range (Ex-showroom) | ₹3.5 – ₹5.2 Lakh |
Design & Style
The design of the Maruti Alto 800 is simple yet functional. It comes with a compact and neat exterior that makes it easy to maneuver in traffic and park in tight spaces. The front fascia features a small grille with stylish headlamps, while the bumper is designed to give the car a modern look.
Its compact size is its biggest advantage for city driving. The tall seating position ensures better visibility, and the clean lines make the car look neat and practical. Inside, the cabin is basic but well-arranged, with dual-tone interiors and enough legroom for small families.
Engine & Performance
The Maruti Alto 800 is powered by a 796cc petrol engine that delivers reliable performance for daily commutes. It produces enough power to handle city traffic comfortably, and the engine is tuned for efficiency rather than speed.
For buyers who want even more savings, Maruti also offers a CNG variant, which is extremely fuel-efficient. The 5-speed manual gearbox is smooth and easy to use, making the car perfect for first-time drivers. While it may not be a high-performance vehicle, it delivers dependable performance for everyday needs.
Ride & Handling
One of the strongest qualities of the Alto 800 is how easy it is to drive. Its compact size, light steering, and small turning radius make it extremely convenient in crowded city streets. Parking is also hassle-free, even in narrow lanes.
The suspension is designed for comfort at low speeds, and it absorbs small bumps on the road fairly well. On highways, the car is best driven at moderate speeds, as it is more suited for city use. For beginners and small families, the handling is friendly and confidence-inspiring.
Features & Tech
Being a budget hatchback, the Alto 800 focuses on essential features rather than luxury. It comes with power steering, front power windows, central locking, and an updated infotainment system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity in higher variants.
Safety has also been improved with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a driver seatbelt reminder. While it may not have advanced tech like larger cars, it provides all the necessary basics for a safe and comfortable ride.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is the strongest selling point of the Alto 800. The petrol variant delivers around 22–25 km/l, depending on driving conditions. The CNG version, however, is the real star, offering up to 32 km/kg, which makes it one of the most economical cars in India.
With such impressive mileage figures, the Alto 800 is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want to save on fuel expenses while enjoying reliable daily drives.
Price & Variants
The Maruti Alto 800 is available in multiple variants, making it accessible to different types of buyers. Prices start from around ₹3.5 lakh for the base petrol model and go up to about ₹5.2 lakh for the higher trims with additional features and CNG options.
This makes it one of the most affordable cars in the country, ideal for families, students, or first-time car buyers.
FAQs
Q1. How many people can the Alto 800 seat?
It offers seating for 5 passengers, including the driver.
Q2. Does Alto 800 come with CNG?
Yes, Maruti offers a CNG variant of the Alto 800 for higher fuel efficiency.
Q3. What is the mileage of the car?
The petrol version delivers about 22–25 km/l, while the CNG version offers up to 32 km/kg.
Q4. Is the Alto 800 good for highways?
It can handle short highway trips but is best suited for city driving and moderate speeds.
Q5. What is the price range?
The price ranges between ₹3.5 lakh and ₹5.2 lakh (ex-showroom).
Final Verdict
The Maruti Alto 800 continues to be one of the most reliable and budget-friendly hatchbacks in India. With its compact design, dependable performance, and outstanding fuel efficiency, it caters perfectly to buyers who need an affordable and practical car for daily use.
It may not have the luxury or high-tech features of bigger cars, but for its price, it delivers excellent value. If you are looking for a simple, economical, and easy-to-drive car, the Alto 800 remains one of the best options in its segment.