The Maruti Alto 800 2025, expected to launch in India during the Navratri–Diwali season (October 2025), marks the much-awaited comeback of India’s most popular budget hatchback. Discontinued in 2023 due to stricter emission and safety norms, the new Alto 800 has been refreshed to meet BS6 Phase 2 standards. With an estimated price between ₹3.50 lakh and ₹5.50 lakh (ex-showroom), it will compete with the Maruti Alto K10, Renault Kwid, and Tata Tiago. Targeted at first-time buyers, small families, and budget-conscious commuters, the car combines affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern features.
Refreshed Design and Build
The 2025 Alto 800 features a modern compact design, highlighted by a wider front grille, sleek halogen headlamps, and a sporty redesigned bumper. Available in six attractive colors—Silky Silver, Solid White, Cerulean Blue, Mojito Green, Uptown Red, and Granite Grey—it measures 3445 x 1515 x 1475 mm and weighs between 680–750 kg (kerb weight). The 160 mm ground clearance makes it suitable for Indian roads, although it’s lower compared to the Renault Kwid’s 184 mm.
The hatchback comes with 12-inch steel wheels (wheel covers in higher trims) or 13-inch optional alloys in the VXi variant. Tubeless 155/65 R13 tires ensure practicality, while the sporty rear spoiler in VXi+ adds youthful flair. Compact proportions make it ideal for tight urban streets and parking challenges.
Updated Features and Cabin
Inside, the new Alto 800 gets a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system (LXi and above) with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX support, paired with a dual-speaker audio setup. The digital-analogue instrument cluster shows speed, fuel, and trip details, though it lacks advanced features like a gear position indicator.
Basic features include manual AC, front power windows, remote central locking, bottle holders, 12V socket, and redesigned fabric seats. Higher trims (VXi+) add rear parcel tray, internally adjustable ORVMs, and remote fuel lid opener. The dual-tone dashboard and improved ergonomics give a modern feel, but the rear legroom (35 inches) and 177-litre boot space remain limited. Despite being called a 5-seater, it is realistically more comfortable for four passengers.
Fuel-Efficient Performance
Under the hood, the Alto 800 2025 is powered by a 796cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine (BS6 Phase 2) producing 47 bhp at 6000 rpm and 69 Nm torque at 3500 rpm. It comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox and an optional AMT in VXi+ trims. A CNG variant (LXi CNG) is also available, generating 40.3 bhp and 60 Nm, with an impressive 24.7 km/kg mileage.
Performance-wise, the car achieves a top speed of 140 kmph and does 0–100 kmph in about 16 seconds. The ARAI-claimed mileage stands at 22–24 kmpl (petrol) and 31–35 km/kg (CNG), while real-world figures are slightly lower at 20–22 kmpl and 28–32 km/kg. The 35-litre petrol tank (24-litre CNG) offers a practical range of 300–450 km, depending on fuel type.
The MacPherson strut front suspension and 3-link rigid axle rear suspension provide decent ride quality, although the firm setup struggles on potholes. Handling is nimble due to the car’s lightweight body, but high-speed stability is average.
Safety and Braking
The 2025 Alto 800 comes with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, seatbelt reminders, and child safety locks as standard. Structural enhancements aim to secure an expected 3-star Bharat NCAP rating. Higher trims include a speed alert system, immobilizer, and high-mounted stop lamp.
Braking duties are handled by 180 mm front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which provide adequate stopping power. However, features like ESP and rear disc brakes, available in some rivals and the Alto K10, are missing here.
Pricing and Availability
The Alto 800 2025 is expected to launch at the following ex-showroom prices:
- STD – ₹3.50 lakh
- LXi – ₹4.00 lakh
- VXi – ₹4.50 lakh
- VXi+ – ₹4.80 lakh
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LXi CNG – ₹5.50 lakh
On-road prices in Delhi are estimated between ₹3.80 lakh and ₹6.10 lakh, including RTO charges and insurance. Pre-bookings open in August 2025 with a ₹5,000–11,000 token amount, and deliveries will take 7–30 days depending on demand.
Customers can expect discounts of ₹10,000–53,000, exchange bonuses of up to ₹50,000, and low EMI plans starting from ₹7,563/month. The car is backed by Maruti’s wide 3000+ service center network, with annual maintenance costs of ₹3,000–5,000. Warranty coverage is 2 years/40,000 km, extendable to 5 years.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
The Alto 800 2025 is expected to receive positive feedback for its affordable pricing, high fuel efficiency, compact size, modern infotainment system, and low maintenance costs. The availability of a CNG option will also attract cost-conscious commuters.
However, drawbacks include:
- Limited rear space, uncomfortable for four adults.
- Basic features, missing rear power windows, ESP, and navigation.
- Underpowered engine, especially for highways or full loads.
- Plastic-heavy interior, which feels less premium than rivals.
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Average crash safety, weaker compared to Tata Tiago’s 4-star NCAP.
Comparison with Competitors
- Maruti Alto K10 (₹4.23 lakh, 998cc, 66 bhp): More powerful, with ESP and up to 6 airbags, but less fuel-efficient.
- Renault Kwid (₹4.70 lakh, 999cc, 67 bhp): Stylish design and higher ground clearance, but weaker service network.
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Tata Tiago (₹5.00 lakh, 1199cc, 85 bhp): Safer and more spacious, but more expensive and lower mileage.
The Alto 800 shines in affordability and fuel efficiency, though it lags in space, power, and safety.
Final Thoughts
The Maruti Alto 800 2025 is a practical, budget-friendly hatchback that blends affordable pricing, compact design, modern infotainment, and exceptional mileage (up to 35 km/kg CNG). With Maruti’s unmatched service support, it is an excellent choice for city commuters, first-time buyers, and small families.
While limited features, average safety, and underpowered performance remain compromises, the Alto 800 continues to deliver unmatched value in the entry-level hatchback segment.