The advertising says its hot but in actuality its not. I am talking about the LX version of the car which is the entry version and it is advisable to buy the basic Santro by paying some more money than buying this version of ALTO. Due to some strange reason the dealers always push ALTO, looks like there are higher margins in this car.
The Car: The engine is the same as the Maruti 800 i.e. 800 cc engine and same 45 BHP. The problem is that Maruti has used the same engine for a heavier car and ALTO LX is 165 Kgs heavier than the Maruti 800. This affects the pick up with the A/C on and it is pathetic in 2nd and 3rd gear. The only plus point about the car is that it has got a very powerful A/C and if you are ready to compromise power for a cooler cabin it is a good car.
It is a good entry level car and it is unbeatable in style and looks trendy and much much better when compared to its older cousins Zen and 800. Even the interiors are better than the 800 complete with remote fuel lid opener and this does away with removing the keys and handing it to the Petrol Pump attendant for refueling.
If you are planning to upgrade from a 800 and are ready to spend more then let me tell you a few facts, it is definitely longer, wider and higher than the 800 with better braking and shock absorbing capacity. It is a good upgrade from a 800 dx but if you can spend more make sure you go for Santro.
Finally I was very disappointed with the car, the pick up and road grip without the A/C is excellent but as soon as the a/c is switched on all the power is drained and it cuts out a very sorry figure especially in lower gears. Even in top gear it struggles to go beyond 100 KM