It was just two months ago that Maruti Suzuki launched the new Alto, which complied with upcoming safety and crash test norms, along with the BS6 emission norms. However, unlike the model it replaced, the Alto facelift did not offer a CNG variant at launch. Now, Maruti has introduced CNG on the mid-spec LXi and LXi (O) variants and priced it at Rs 4.11 lakh and Rs 4.14 lakh, respectively (ex-showroom, Delhi); an increase of about Rs 60,000 over the equivalent petrol-powered Alto variant.
While the brand has yet to reveal specific technical details, the BS4-compliant version of the 796cc engine made 41hp and 60Nm of torque on CNG (48hp and 69Nm on petrol).
In terms of equipment, there is no difference between the petrol Alto and the CNG models. They come with power steering, air conditioning, front power windows, silver interior accents, retractable rear seatbelts, rear child locks, remote boot and fuel lid opener, body-coloured handles and mirrors. The LXi (O) gets one additional airbag.
There is no news yet on whether Maruti will upgrade the Alto’s larger sibling, the Alto K10 to meet the new crash test and emission norms, though it did introduce an Alto K10 with additional mandatory safety kit, which will ensure that the model can be produced until the October 1, 2019 deadline.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
