CARS OF THE WORLD

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 2023.

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 2023. The new $5,000 Suzuki Alto hatchback debuted.

Japanese Suzuki Alto key-car changed its generation at the end of last year, but now we are talking about a completely different car.

Ten years ago, Alto had an alternative branch of evolution, created especially for India and local JV Maruti Suzuki.

Local Suzuki Alto is unified with Japanese namesake only on a number of units.

Now a new hatchback Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 debuted in India. It is the third generation according to a local «scale» (although the ninth generation is already produced in Japan).

For a long time Alto was an absolute bestseller in India: 250-270 thousand cars were sold annually.

But the welfare of the local public has grown, and last year Alto took only the fourth place in the rating (166 thousand cars), leaving behind more expensive models Wagon R, Swift and Baleno.

How will the new-generation hatchback regain customer interest?

First — the Alto again has an «older» liter engine.

Suzuki started forming new range with K10 version, which disappeared two years ago due to introduction of new econorms BS6 (analogue of Euro 6) in India.

The hatchback is equipped with a three-cylinder petrol engine K10C (67 hp, 89 Nm) with a standard start-stop system.

There is a choice of five-speed «mechanics» and created on its basis AGS «robot» with one clutch.

«Junior» Suzuki Alto 800 (48 hp, 69 Nm) of previous generation will stay in service for now. It is offered only with a manual gearbox.

Well, secondly, Alto has become bigger and more imposing because of buyers’ expectations.

Even outside the hatchback looks more expensive than its predecessor. Its length increased by 85 mm (to 3530 mm) and height — by 45 mm (to 1520 mm), although the width didn’t change (1490 mm).

Five-seater saloon became more spacious, the volume of the trunk increased from 177 to 214 liters.

It is based on the Heartect modular platform, known from other Suzuki models, and the wheelbase has increased by 20 mm (to 2380 mm).

The interior now has darker trim and looks more expensive than before.

In basic configuration, according to Indian laws, there are two airbags, front belt pretensioners, ABS and rear parktronic.

However, the Alto’s budget essence hasn’t gone anywhere.

The hatchback still has 13-inch wheels, rear drum brakes and incomplete rear headrests, and the rear wiper is not offered even at extra charge.

Air conditioning and power steering are still on the options list. There are also front power windows, keyless entry system and a simple radio with smartphone connectivity.

Alternatively — a full-fledged media system with a seven-inch screen and features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

You can order decorative packages Glinto (chrome trim) and Impacto (orange inserts).

For new Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 in India they ask from 399 thousand to 584 thousand rupees, that is 5000-7300 dollars.

The junior Alto 800 now costs from $4,300 to $6,300, but a generation change awaits it soon, too.