Abhijeet A
Hello friends! You’ve probably seen some exciting news online about a brand-new 2025 model of the Maruti Alto 800. It’s the car that taught millions of us how to drive and has been a part of so many Indian families. So, the idea of it coming back is thrilling, right?
But, as your trusted guide in the world of cars, I need to clear the air. Is the legendary Alto 800 really making a comeback? And if not, what are the best and most affordable cars you can actually buy today? Let’s dive in and find out the real story.
Key Specs at a Glance
First things first, the Maruti Alto 800 was officially discontinued in 2023 and is not coming back. The rumors are just that—rumors. The official replacement and the new king of budget cars from Maruti is the Alto K10. So, let’s look at its specs.
| Specification | Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 |
| Engine | 998cc, K10C Petrol Engine |
| Power | 66 bhp |
| Mileage | 24.90 kmpl (Petrol & AGS) |
| Key Feature | SmartPlay Touchscreen System |
| Boot Space | 214 Litres |
| Ex-Showroom Price | Starting from ₹3.99 Lakh |
Price: What’s the Real Deal?
You might see prices floating around online for a “2025 Alto 800,” but those are completely made up. What’s important is what you’ll actually pay for the cars available in showrooms right now.
Here’s the real on-road price you can expect to pay for the top entry-level cars in major Indian cities. This is the final price, after all taxes and charges.
| Car Model | Delhi | Mumbai | Bengaluru |
| Maruti Alto K10 | ~₹4.50 Lakh | ~₹4.70 Lakh | ~₹4.85 Lakh |
| Renault Kwid | ~₹5.20 Lakh | ~₹5.45 Lakh | ~₹5.60 Lakh |
| Maruti S-Presso | ~₹4.80 Lakh | ~₹5.00 Lakh | ~₹5.15 Lakh |
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices for the base models and can change based on the variant you choose.)
The Main Event: Alto K10 vs. Kwid vs. S-Presso
Now for the big fight! With the Alto 800 out of the picture, these three cars are battling it out to be India’s favourite budget car.
| Feature | Maruti Alto K10 | Renault Kwid | Maruti S-Presso |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | From ₹3.99 Lakh | From ₹4.70 Lakh | From ₹4.26 Lakh |
| Engine | 998cc (Peppy) | 999cc | 998cc |
| Mileage (“Kitna deti hai?”) | ~24.9 kmpl | ~22.3 kmpl | ~25.3 kmpl |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Super reliable & efficient engine. Weakness: Basic interior. | Feature: SUV-like looks & touchscreen. Weakness: Lower mileage. | Feature: Spacious cabin & high seating. Weakness: Quirky design. |
Our Verdict: The Right Choice for YOU
After driving all three extensively, here’s our simple, straightforward advice on which car is perfect for different kinds of people.
- For the “Peace of Mind” Buyer: The Maruti Alto K10 If your main concerns are mileage, low maintenance costs, and the assurance of a service center in every corner of the country, then close your eyes and go for the Alto K10. We drove it through city traffic, and its peppy K10 engine is a huge upgrade from the old 800cc. It’s a no-nonsense, reliable car that is a true ‘paisa vasool’ deal for any first-time buyer.
- For the “Style and Features” Buyer: The Renault Kwid If you want your budget car to look like a mini-SUV and come with features like a big touchscreen, the Kwid is your best bet. It definitely has the best road presence of the three. For a young buyer or a small family that wants a bit of style, the Kwid feels more modern and upmarket than its price tag suggests.
- For the “Practical & Tall” Buyer: The Maruti S-Presso The S-Presso’s “mini-SUV” design might look a bit quirky, but it has a secret weapon: space! It’s a tall car, which makes getting in and out a breeze, especially for older family members. The high seating position gives you a great view of the road, which is a huge confidence booster for new drivers navigating busy city traffic.
Common Questions Answered (FAQ)
So, is the 2025 Maruti Alto 800 launch confirmed for sure?
No, it is not confirmed. The car was officially discontinued in 2023, and all news about a 2025 launch is just a rumor. The official entry-level car from Maruti is the Alto K10.
Why was the original Alto 800 discontinued?
It was discontinued mainly because upgrading its old engine to meet the new, stricter BS6 Phase 2 emission rules was becoming too expensive. It made more sense for Maruti to focus on the more modern Alto K10.
What is the best and most reliable car under ₹5 lakh in India?
Based on mileage, service network, and reliability, the Maruti Alto K10 is arguably the best and most sensible choice for a new car under ₹5 lakh on-road.
Is the Alto K10 a good replacement for the Alto 800?
Yes, it’s a fantastic replacement. It has a more powerful and efficient engine, more space, and better features while still being very affordable and reliable, just like the original Alto 800.
