Maruti Suzuki Alto Production Stops in India; Here's Why

Maruti Suzuki has stopped the production of the Alto in India as RDE norms become effective in April. The entry-level hatchback was in India for over two decades. As mentioned, the updated Bharat Stage 6 phase II emission norms are currently in action, and many automakers have modified their lineup according to the new emission standards. Updating the lineup in sync with the recent emission norms requires a considerable investment. Maruti Suzuki's entry-level model was witnessing poor sales, according to the firm. Hence, investing in such a vehicle to meet new RDE norms, wasn't a wise financial move. The carmaker has confirmed that the Alto has been discontinued in India. With this, the 800cc engine of the company has also bid adieu to the market. Here's complete detail on the discontinuation of the Maruti Suzuki's entry-level version. 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 Gets 2 Stars in 2023 Global NCAP Crash Test

Maruti Suzuki Alto: What Led to the Discontinuation?

Apart from the declining sales and reduced market share, another reason for axing the long-lived Alto is the inability to meet the norms of the upcoming safety regulations. According to reports, the new safety norms will kick in the market, which will make it mandatory for all cars in India to come equipped with six airbags. To comply with the new regulations, models like the Alto 800 will need to undergo extensive and costly engineering to add four additional airbags and other safety measures. 

The growing popularity of the Alto K10 in the segment is another reason behind its discontinuation. Maruti Suzuki was planning to keep the Alto K10 as the highlight of the hatchback portfolio. It finally came to a decision and thus, halted the production of its 800cc engine featuring the Alto in India. Now, the Alto K10 will be the new entry-level variant of the company in the segment. Price-wise, the Alto K10 costs between Rs 3.99 lakh and Rs 5.94 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Fronx Mileage Revealed Ahead of Launch in India

Maruti Suzuki Alto: Mechanical & Price Details 

On the mechanical front, the Alto used to come with a 796cc petrol engine, producing 47bhp and 69Nm. For transmission, it only has a 5-speed manual option. In India, the Alto model was used to retail between Rs 3.54 lakh and Rs 5.13 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi).