Maruti Suzuki is readying a slew of new models for a launch in 2022 in the Indian market. And while most other models like the Vitara Brezza, Baleno and XL6 will be updated with a comprehensive facelift, Maruti’s bread and butter car – the Alto – will see a full model change. Test mules of the all-new Alto have already been spotted many times.  Here are five key points you need to know about the next-gen Maruti Suzuki Alto.

• New Alto to be underpinned by Maruti’s Heartect platform
• Will be larger than outgoing model, more spacious on the inside
• Current 800cc petrol engine is expected to be carried over

2022 Maruti Suzuki Alto: all-new platform after ages

We are told that the upcoming third-generation Alto will most likely be making a shift to Maruti’s modular Heartect platform that also underpins many other models, depending on the segment. Test mules that have been spotted so far suggest that the new Alto will be taller and wider, and most likely also have a longer wheelbase than the outgoing car. Despite its larger dimensions, the Heartect platform is expected to bring down the car’s weight, which means it could also be more fuel efficient.

2022 Maruti Suzuki Alto: exterior styling

The design of the new Alto is expected to be an evolution of the current model. Unlike the S-Presso, Maruti doesn’t seem to have adopted an SUV-like styling approach for the new Alto, as it retains its basic shape and hatchback character. It will, however, get a completely new front end, with larger, upward-swooping headlamps, a new bumper with an oversized mesh grille, new fog lamp housings and a clamshell bonnet.

In profile, the new Alto is expected to carry forward a similar glasshouse and door design with pull-type door handles. Test mules have been spotted riding on 13-inch steel wheels. At the back, the new Alto will get a larger and more squarish tail-lamp design, a flatter look for the tailgate and an updated rear bumper.

2022 Maruti Suzuki Alto: interior and features

The interior of the new Alto is also expected to be completely overhauled. Although we haven’t seen any interior spy photos of the new Alto yet, we expect a more modern design and the addition of new features. Top-spec variants could get a touchscreen infotainment system, keyless entry, semi-digital instrument, power steering and dual airbags, although, to save costs, it is expected to continue with manual air-conditioning and single-piece front seats.

Given the larger dimensions, the new Alto could be more spacious on the inside as well. As is the norm with Maruti, several parts and trims on the new Alto could be shared with other Maruti models such as the S-Presso and the Celerio.

2022 Maruti Suzuki Alto: engine and gearbox options

At launch, Maruti is expected to offer the Alto with the tried and tested 796cc, three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 47hp and 69Nm of peak torque. The carmaker may also offer the Celerio’s K10C petrol engine with dual-jet technology on the new Alto, as the Heartect platform will also be able to support it. Maruti claims class-leading fuel economy figures with the Celerio’s K10C engine, which could make it a great fit on the budget Alto and a spiritual successor to the discontinued Alto K10. Transmission options could include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT gearbox.

2022 Maruti Suzuki Alto: expected launch, price and rivals

Maruti is expected to launch the new Alto sometime around Diwali 2022. Given all the updates it’s set to receive, expect a slight bump in the prices as well. Currently, the Alto is priced between Rs 3.15 lakh-4.82 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). When launched, the new Alto will continue to rival the Renault Kwid.

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What are your first impressions of the all-new Maruti Alto? Let us know in the comments below.