Maruti Suzuki Alto LXi BS-IV - Design Review

It's a funny world and reality is often stanger than dreams.Just last week around, I was driving a BMW X1 that made 350Nm of torque. A week before that was a Volvo S60 that churned out  astonking 304PS of power. Today I'm back to the real world, driving the Alto K10 that makes only 68PS of power. But this car isn't to be taken lightly. This is India's bestselling car, and Maruti's best selling model. So let's see what makes the Alto India's favourite car.

Although we dream of big, powerful cars, a small car is what makes sense for our driving conditions. Chaotic city traffic, congested or nonexistent parking spots grant them a godsend status. The recent hike in fuel prices has further asserted their endearing existence. Maruti has a reason to rejoice then. The brand not only has six small cars in its stable but also has been the market leader for eternity. After the demise of Maruti 800, the Alto is the entry-level Maruti and has been successful at filling the gap left by the legendary 800.

To spruce up the ageing Alto, Maruti launched the K10 variant last year. Although it looks like a minor facelift, the car got some serious changes inside out. The biggest news was the new K10B engine under the hood. The car also got fresh styling updates. As you can see, the Alto K10 gets a fresh new face that looks very upmarket, although it is cast in the same Alto mould.It gets a brand new, bold front grille. Then there are the designer headlamps and a new bumper with integrated headlamps. Also, if you notice closely, the frontend is slightly longer than the older Alto. The engine bay has been slightly elongated to accomodate the new engine.

The Alto remains a typical two box hatchback and side profile is pretty conventional. It sure looks dated compared to the current breed of hatchbacks but the Alto isn’t a bad car to look at. It is easier on the eye than a Maruti 800 for sure. A slash cut line toward the rear of the car, originating from below the tail lamps give the side some character and the black rub strips break the monotony of flat door panels. The rear too has been worked upon for a contemporary feel all around.

With the Alto K10, Maruti's main objective was to not only make a better Alto but also make it a little more upmarket. This is evident in the styling touches all around.Just like the front, the rear too gets a mild refresh. The number plate now sits on the hatch rather than on the bumper. Oh yes, the bumper has been redesigned too but what catches your eyes first are the nicely rounded tail lamps. The cosmetic job has certainly rendered an upmarket aura to the Alto K10. While the older Alto still exists, the K10 offers a little more style to the small car buyers on a budget.

Also check:

Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 User Experience

Maruti Alto K10 Performance Review