2019 Maruti Suzuki Alto vs rivals: Specifications comparison

Maruti’s entry-level offering, the Alto 800, has just received its most major upgrade since its introduction in 2012. Now known as just the Maruti Suzuki Alto, the hatchback has been updated with a BS6-compliant engine and additional safety features. With these upgrades, the Alto has become pricier than before, putting it right in the mix with the Renault Kwid and the Datsun Redigo. How does it compare with its rivals on specification and features? Read on to find out.

Dimensions

All three entry-level hatchbacks in question have a compact footprint. However, it’s the Renault Kwid that’s the largest in this comparison in terms of length, width and wheelbase too. The Renault is also the one with the largest boot. Meanwhile, the Datsun Redigo is the tallest and the lightest of the lot. The Alto has the smallest boot and is the heaviest in this comparison. Interestingly, the new Alto is 50mm longer than its predecessor. This increase in length is due to a new bumper design that helps the Alto clear the pedestrian safety regulations that come into effect on October 1, 2020.

Engine and gearbox

The major talking point on the Alto facelift is its engine that has been reworked to meet BS6 emission norms. The 0.8-litre petrol engine continues to put out 48hp and 69Nm of torque but sees a drop in efficiency figures. Where the earlier model delivered an ARAI-certified 24.70kpl, the new Alto is rated at 22.05kpl. The Kwid and Redigo, meanwhile, share the same 0.8-litre motor that produces a healthier 54hp and 72Nm of torque. Although the Kwid (25.17kpl) is more fuel-efficient than the Redigo (22.70kpl), thanks to its taller gearing. Speaking of which, all hatchbacks here get a 5-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Features

While the three hatchbacks are available in multiple trims, the top-spec trims are the versions in focus here. All three cars get a driver airbag and ABS with EBD as standard but the top-spec Alto VXi goes one up on the others with a standard-fit passenger airbag.

The new Alto gets a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and is also the only car in this comparison with rear parking sensors. The Redigo features a 1-DIN audio system and LED daytime running lights as a part of the package. However, it’s the Kwid is the most feature-rich. It’s the only model that has a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It’s also the only one with an on-board navigation feature, a parking camera and a digital speedometer.

Price

In terms of price, the Datsun Redigo is the most affordable car in this comparison, followed by the Renault Kwid. As the only hatchback here with a BS6-compliant engine, the Alto has the highest starting price. However, as far as the top-spec variants, the Alto is the most affordable with the Redigo marginally more expensive and the relatively feature-rich Kwid being the most expensive.

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Click here for Renault Kwid prices, reviews, images, videos and more

Click here for Datsun Redigo prices, reviews, images, videos and more