Maruti 800 CNG (Old Model)

The Maruti 800 CNG is a compact hatchback that has been a staple in the Indian automotive market for years. Powered by a 796cc, 3-cylinder engine, it produces 35 bhp of power and 56 Nm of torque when running on petrol, but these figures drop to 40 bhp and 60 Nm when using CNG. The car comes with a manual transmission and has a fuel tank capacity of 28 litres for petrol and approximately 10 kg for CNG. The dimensions are compact, with an overall length of 3335 mm, width of 1440 mm, and height of 1405 mm, making it ideal for urban driving. The car features basic but functional amenities such as air conditioning, central locking, and keyless entry. While it may lack in terms of engine performance and interior quality, its fuel efficiency and affordability make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers in India.

The Maruti 800 CNG, particularly the older model, is a mixed bag when it comes to overall performance and user experience. On the positive side, it offers excellent fuel economy, which is a significant factor for many Indian buyers. The CNG variant provides a mileage of around 30.46 kmkg, making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting. However, the engine performance is somewhat lacking, especially when running on CNG, where the power and torque are reduced, leading to a noticeable drop in pickup and overall driving experience. The interior quality and comfort are also areas of concern, with users reporting issues such as poor plastic quality, uncomfortable seats, and noise from the front and rear glasses. Despite these drawbacks, the Maruti 800 CNG remains a popular choice for its affordability and fuel efficiency, making it a viable option for those prioritizing mileage and budget.

Maruti Suzuki has officially stopped the production of the Maruti Alto 800, including its CNG variant, due to the enforcement of BSVI Stage II emissions standards. This decision marks the end of an era for one of Indias best-selling cars. I think this is a significant loss for the budget-conscious buyer in India.

In February 2023, Maruti Suzuki offered discounts of up to Rs 44,000 on the Alto 800, including its CNG models, in an effort to clear out remaining stock before the models discontinuation. This was a great opportunity for buyers looking for a budget-friendly option.

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG saw a price hike of up to Rs 21,000 in January 2023, just before its production was halted. This price increase was part of the broader trend of rising vehicle prices in India. I believe this hike made the vehicle less competitive in the market.

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG was known for its fuel efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 31.59 km/kg. This made it a popular choice for city commuters looking to save on fuel costs. I think its fuel efficiency was one of its strongest selling points.

In April 2019, the Maruti Alto 800 received another refresh, which included improvements to its exterior, interior, and features. However, the CNG variant remained largely unchanged in terms of its power output and transmission. I believe these updates helped keep the model relevant for a bit longer.

The pricing of the Maruti 800 CNG older model varies based on the variant and the location within India. Historically, the ex-showroom prices for the CNG variants ranged from approximately INR 3.25 lakhs for the base CNG model to INR 3.80 lakhs for the top CNG LXI Optional model. On-road prices would typically be higher, including additional costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, which could add around INR 50,000 to INR 1 lakh to the ex-showroom price. Its important to note that these prices are for discontinued models, and current market prices may vary if you are purchasing a used vehicle. As an automotive reviewer, I would advise checking current market rates and comparing them with other models to make an informed decision.

The Maruti 800 CNG offers impressive mileage, which is a key selling point. With an ARAI-certified mileage of 30.46 kmkg for the CNG variant, this car is highly economical for daily use. In real-world conditions, users have reported mileage ranging from 28 to 34 kmkg, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. This makes the Maruti 800 CNG an excellent choice for those concerned about running costs and fuel efficiency.