Maruti Alto LX CNG

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG is a compact hatchback that has been a bestseller in India for years. It comes with a 796cc engine that, in CNG mode, produces 40bhp and 60Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The car features a 35-litre petrol tank and a 60-litre CNG tank, which translates to about 8-9 kilograms of CNG, providing a range of approximately 570 kilometres when both fuels are combined. The Alto 800 CNG is available in six colour options and includes basic but essential features such as air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and central locking. While it may lack in terms of interior space and comfort for taller passengers, its compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight city spaces. The car also benefits from Marutis extensive service network, making maintenance and repairs convenient and cost-effective. Overall, the Maruti Alto 800 CNG is a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable vehicle that is well-suited for urban driving.

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG is a stalwart in the Indian automotive market, particularly for those seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. While it may not boast the most powerful engine, producing 40bhp and 60Nm of torque, its lightweight design makes it more than adequate for city driving. The absence of an automatic transmission option might be a drawback for some, but the five-speed manual gearbox is smooth and easy to handle. The Alto 800 CNG excels in its fuel efficiency, which is a significant selling point in a market where running costs are a major concern. However, the interior space is limited, and taller passengers may find it uncomfortable. Despite these limitations, the Alto 800 CNG remains a reliable and economical choice, especially with Marutis extensive service network and the cars overall durability.

Maruti Suzuki has announced price cuts for select variants of the Alto K10 and S-Presso in September 2024. While this does not directly affect the Alto LXi CNG, it indicates the companys efforts to make their vehicles more competitive in the market. I think such price adjustments can make the Alto LXi CNG more appealing to potential buyers.

The Alto LXi CNG has a boot space of 177 litres and a ground clearance that is suitable for Indian road conditions. The car also features a manual air conditioner and power windows, making it a comfortable choice for daily commuting. I think the balance of space and features makes it a practical option.

Maruti Suzuki has stopped the production of the Alto K10 CNG, Celerio CNG, and S-Presso CNG in March 2024, but the WagonR 1.0L CNG will continue in production. This move is likely to clear out existing inventory before resuming production. I think this pause could be a strategic move to manage demand and inventory efficiently.

The Maruti Suzuki Alto LXi CNG is priced at Rs. 5.29 lakhs in Delhi, featuring a 796cc engine, manual 5-gear transmission, and a fuel capacity of 60 litres. It also includes features like headlight and ignition on reminder, cabin-boot access, and a heater. I believe this variant offers good value for money, especially for those looking for a fuel-efficient option.

The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 LXi (O) CNG variant is equipped with features such as an air conditioner with heater, ABS with EBD, and reverse parking sensors. It is priced at Rs. 4.55 lakhs and offers a mileage of 31.59 km/kg. This variant seems well-rounded with both safety and comfort features.

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG is priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price for the LXI CNG variant starts at around INR 4.02 lakhs, while the LXI (O) variant is priced at INR 4.09 lakhs. When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes and other charges, the price can go up to around INR 4.5 lakhs to INR 4.7 lakhs, depending on the state and local taxes. This price hike, although significant, is still within the budget of many first-time car buyers and those looking for an economical option. The cost-effectiveness of the CNG variant, coupled with its fuel efficiency, makes it a compelling choice despite the higher initial cost compared to the petrol version.

The Maruti Alto 800 CNG offers impressive mileage, which is a key factor for many Indian buyers. With a claimed mileage of 33.44 kmkg on CNG and around 22.05 kmpl on petrol, this car is highly economical to run. In practical terms, you can expect a mileage of about 18 kmkg on CNG, making it an excellent option for those concerned about fuel costs. This efficiency, combined with the lower cost of CNG compared to petrol, significantly reduces the overall running costs, making the Alto 800 CNG a smart choice for daily commuting.