I am a ex-Santro erlx owner, however due to certain circumstances exactly a year ago I had to sell the santro, this year it was time to buy the car and myself and my wife were instantly in a debate on whether to go for Santro or Alto. There is a cost difference of 1.25 lakhs over a period of 4 years (exshowrrom price + Interest if on loan), hence with a downpayment of 47k and an emi of 7.3k for 4 years we got the Alto compromising some of the comfort and luxury of Santro.
The Car arrived on my birthday as promised by the dealer (Indus Motors) Chennai, dealer took good care of us while in showroom, made sure we are satisfied, after delivery I noticed there was a noise in the front speakers, next day he got them replaced with even better quality ones. The reason for me to consider Alto is I heard in MS it gives good mileage atleast 16 to 18, and I dont trust LPG/CNG yet.
Now the pros - less cost of ownership, less cost of maintenance, Good resale-value espcially if you are going for ex-change, Front passengers can be seated comfortably, Good AC, Power-steering is real smooth, good turning radius, without AC zooms through the traffic. If you fit the speakers on the Dickie door, you get lots of boot, which is good if you are travelling out.
Now the Cons - Once you switch on the AC, the 47PS engine feels like 25PS engine (lacks complete power), being s ex-Santro user - I feel being let down by the engine, however I think thats the cost we pay on the difference amount, also the rear passenger seat comfort is pathetic, you should consider this only if you are two members with a small kid.
Its been only a week with close to 500 KMS, so I cant comment on the mileage front, though I will post the same after 1st service.
Cheers!