The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 has long been a staple in Indian households, offering an unbeatable mix of affordability, reliability, and efficiency.
As of 2025, this iconic hatchback continues to charm first-time buyers, urban commuters, and small families with its compact design and low running costs.
Whether you’re navigating crowded city streets or planning short weekend getaways, the Alto 800’s nimble handling makes it a joy to drive. With rising fuel prices and a push towards eco-friendly options, its CNG variant shines brighter than ever.
Compact Design That Fits Everywhere
At first glance, the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800’s exterior screams practicality. Measuring just 3,445 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2,360 mm, it’s one of the smallest hatchbacks on sale, perfect for tight parking spots in bustling metros like Mumbai or Delhi.
The 2025 model retains its boxy silhouette but adds sharper headlights and body-colored bumpers for a more contemporary look. Available in six vibrant shades Uptown Red, Mojito Green, Granite Grey, Superior White, Cerulean Blue, and Silky Silver, it appeals to those who want a car that stands out without being flashy.
Ground clearance stands at 160 mm, handling speed breakers and uneven roads with ease, a common sight in Indian suburbs. The lightweight body, tipping the scales at around 720 kg, contributes to its peppy performance and superior fuel economy.
Step inside, and the cabin welcomes you with a dual-tone dashboard that’s straightforward and functional. Seats upholstered in durable fabric accommodate four adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find rear headroom a tad snug.
Storage is thoughtful, with bottle holders in doors, a glovebox, and a 177-litre boot that’s expandable by folding the rear seats. In higher variants, you’ll find a parcel tray and accessory socket for added convenience. The steering is light, making U-turns effortless, and the overall build feels sturdy for city potholes.
For 2025, Maruti has improved the AC’s cooling efficiency, ensuring cool comfort even in peak summer heat. It’s not luxurious, but every inch is designed for real-world Indian driving, where space and maneuverability trump extravagance.
Engine and Performance
Heart of the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is its trusty 796 cc, three-cylinder petrol engine, BS-VI compliant and tuned for urban agility. It churns out 47.6 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 69 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm enough for zipping through traffic without feeling underpowered. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, gear shifts are smooth and cable-operated for precision.
For those preferring a greener option, the factory-fitted CNG kit on select variants reduces emissions and running costs. Acceleration from 0-100 kmph takes about 13-14 seconds, adequate for city sprints but not for highway overtakes. Top speed hovers around 140 kmph, but most owners rarely push it that far. Suspension a MacPherson strut upfront and rigid axle at the rear absorbs bumps well, offering a composed ride over rough patches.
In 2025 reviews, owners praise its low-end torque, ideal for stop-go traffic. The engine’s refined nature means minimal vibrations, and with regular servicing, it promises a lifespan of over 1.5 lakh km. Whether you’re a daily commuter covering 50 km or a family heading to the market, the Alto 800’s power delivery feels intuitive and responsive.
Fuel Efficiency
If there’s one area where the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 excels, it’s fuel efficiency. ARAI-certified figures claim 24.7 kmpl for the petrol variant and up to 33.4 kmpl for CNG—real-world numbers often hit 20-22 kmpl in mixed conditions. With fuel prices fluctuating around Rs. 100 per litre in 2025, this translates to savings of Rs. 2-3 per km compared to rivals.
The secret lies in the engine’s Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) system and lightweight construction, optimized for Indian roads. CNG owners report even better economy at Rs. 1 per km, making it a boon in CNG-rich cities like Delhi and Pune. A 35-litre tank means fewer refills, stretching a full tank to 700-800 km on highways.
Safety First
Safety in entry-level cars has improved leaps and bounds, and the Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 follows suit. The 2025 model mandates dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and seatbelt reminders across variants, addressing earlier criticisms. A reinforced body shell enhances crash protection, earning it a nod from Bharat NCAP standards.
Additional features include rear parking sensors, child locks, and an engine immobilizer for theft deterrence. While it doesn’t boast advanced driver aids like ESP (standard on pricier siblings), these basics provide reassurance for urban drivers. Braking a front disc and rear drum setup halts the car confidently from 60 kmph in about 25 meters.
In Global NCAP tests, similar Maruti models score adequately for the segment, and 2025 updates focus on pedestrian safety with better bumpers. Owners appreciate the visibility from large windows, reducing blind spots. It’s not a tank, but for its price, the Alto 800 offers layered protection that grows with family needs.
Variants and Pricing
The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 lineup in 2025 caters to diverse pockets with 10 variants split across petrol and CNG. The base STD kicks off at Rs. 3.25 lakh (ex-showroom), including essentials like power steering. Stepping up to LXi at Rs. 3.85 lakh adds AC and front power windows.
Mid-spec VXi (Rs. 4.25 lakh) brings alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, and Bluetooth audio. Top-end VXi Plus (Rs. 4.56 lakh) includes a touchscreen infotainment system. CNG options start at Rs. 4.16 lakh for LXi CNG, ideal for cost-cutters.
On-road prices in Delhi hover around Rs. 3.6-5.7 lakh, factoring RTO and insurance. No major price hikes in 2025 keep it competitive against the Tata Tiago or Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. Choose based on needs base for pure commuting, higher for family flair.