Maruti Suzuki has sold more than 39 lakh units of the Alto
India's largest car manufacturer Maruti Suzuki has sold more than 39 lakh units of the Alto in the country during the past 20 years of its existence, also maintaining a strong lead over its rivals in the last 16 years. Last year, the company sold 1.9 lakh units of the hatchback in India. During the transition from BSIV to BSVI, the Maruti Suzuki Alto was the first entry-level hatch in India to be BSVI compliant.
"Consistently setting new benchmarks in the Indian auto industry, Alto is the undisputed leader in India for 16 years in a row establishing its dominance in the competitive entry segment, owing to its unparalleled performance, compact design, easy manoeuvrability, high fuel-efficiency, affordability and timely convenience and safety related upgrades. Backed by a strong legacy, Alto continues to appeal to customers across the length and breadth of the country, with 76 per cent customers choosing it as their first car," commented Shashank Srivastava, executive director, marketing and sales, Maruti Suzuki India Limited.
Earlier this year, Maruti Suzuki had discontinued the Alto K10 with the implementation of BSVI regulations. The K10 was available with a 1.0-litre K10B engine that made 68PS and 90 Nm, which could be optioned with a 5-speed manual or AMT. It was believed that the Maruti Suzuki wanted the S-Presso to have a strong presence, and not get cannibalised by the Alto K10, thus making the company discontinue the latter. Presently, the BSVI compliant Alto is available with a 796cc 3-cylinder motor that makes 48PS and 69 Nm. In terms of safety, the Alto comes equipped with driver side airbag, ABS and EBD, reverse parking sensor, high speed alert system and seatbelt reminder for both driver and co-driver, and also complies with the latest crash and pedestrian safety regulations, the company mentioned.