Maruti Alto
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If you want Maruti 800 with a bit heavy body then go for Alto. At least
it is strong enough that if a monkey jumps on your car’s roof on
highways, then you might not find a slight bend as that of 800.
Alto is a Maruti 800 in a new package. It is equipped with the same
Maruti 800 engine.
COMFORT
But I was amazed to see that Maruti 800 seats are more comfortable
then that of Alto. The rear seat is like a narrow bench and the seats
have no special style. If you see the new Maruti 800 you will be amazed
to see that the higher model i.e., Alto has inferior seats as compared
to 800.
Alto has some advantages like more leg-space, more head-room which
makes the car quite spacious.
Suspensions are good and the drive is smooth.
INTERIORS
You will not find major changes in the interiors like, AC panel etc..
At a higher cost then 800, I was expecting a good look of the
speedo-meter panel and its lights. But sorry, the company compromised
it. When lights are ON, you will see the inner lights in the
speedo-meter panels like that of very old maruti. No colorful attractive
changes. It will depress you for a cost about 2.66 lakhs.
FUEL EFFICIENCY
The company claims 16-17+ Kmpl, which is not bad. I talked to some
old owners and there happy about it. It is economical.
My Decision
However, if you are bored with 800 and has not got much
budget then you can shift to Alto Lx. But if you can spend a little
more go for WagonR or Santro.
One major plus point is that the spares and accessories are not costly
enough as that of other cars.