Forget Maruti Alto… Middle-Class Buyers Now Choosing Maruti Suzuki Cervo With 658cc Engine and 38 KM/L Mileage
The Maruti Alto has been a household name in India for many years. Known for its low cost, simple features, and reliable performance, it has served millions of first-time car buyers. But now, times are changing. With technology moving fast and competition getting tougher, the Alto no longer stands alone in the budget car segment.
If you’re planning to buy a small car in 2025, you may want to look beyond the Maruti Alto. Many new and better alternatives are now available with more modern designs, stronger engines, and advanced features. Let’s explore why it’s time to “Forget Maruti Alto” and consider newer, better options.
Overview Table: Comparison with New Age Rivals
| Feature | Maruti Alto K10 | Tata Tiago | Hyundai Exter | Renault Kwid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L Petrol | 1.2L Petrol | 1.2L Petrol | 1.0L Petrol |
| Power Output | 66 bhp | 86 bhp | 83 bhp | 67 bhp |
| Transmission | Manual/AMT | Manual/AMT | Manual/AMT | Manual/AMT |
| Safety Rating | Not Rated | 4-Star (Global NCAP) | Not Rated | 1-Star (Global NCAP) |
| Infotainment System | 7-inch | 7-inch Touchscreen | 8-inch Touchscreen | 8-inch Touchscreen |
| Mileage (Approx.) | 24 km/l | 20 km/l | 19 km/l | 21 km/l |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ₹4.20 – ₹6.00 Lakh | ₹5.60 – ₹8.00 Lakh | ₹6.00 – ₹9.00 Lakh | ₹4.70 – ₹6.50 Lakh |
Attention Please: Design & Style
The Alto still has a basic, compact design. It’s small and easy to park, but feels outdated when compared to its rivals. In contrast, cars like the Tata Tiago or Hyundai Exter look more modern and stylish with bold headlights, sharp lines, and SUV-inspired elements.
While the Alto has a small city-friendly body, newer cars offer more space and better build quality. In simple words, if you want a car that looks fresh and up-to-date, the Alto may no longer be your best option.
Engine & Performance
Maruti Alto K10 comes with a 1.0-litre petrol engine that produces 66 bhp. It’s fine for city driving but feels underpowered on highways, especially with passengers or luggage.
Cars like the Tata Tiago have more powerful 1.2-litre engines and offer smoother pickup and better highway performance. Even the Renault Kwid, though in the same engine range, feels a bit more refined.
So, if you want a car with better road presence and driving experience, especially outside the city, it’s better to skip the Alto.
Ride & Handling
The Alto has a soft suspension, which is good for slow city drives, but it doesn’t offer much confidence on rough roads or at high speeds. It feels light and shaky when you go faster.
On the other hand, newer small cars have stronger build and better suspension tuning. The Tiago, for example, feels stable and solid even at 100 km/h. It also handles potholes better.
If you’re planning to use your car for more than just market runs, it’s smart to pick a more balanced car.
Features & Tech
Alto has a basic infotainment system with a 7-inch screen in top variants, along with manual air conditioning, front power windows, and keyless entry.
But its rivals are loaded with more tech. For example:
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Tata Tiago and Hyundai Exter offer better sound systems, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, steering-mounted controls, and digital displays.
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Safety-wise, Alto only gets basic dual airbags and ABS, while Tiago has a 4-star crash safety rating.
If tech and safety matter to you, then Alto falls short.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
Yes, the Alto still wins in terms of mileage. Its claimed fuel efficiency is around 24 km/l, which is great for city users. But remember, newer engines in rivals are more efficient than before and the real-world difference is not as big as it used to be.
Also, some of the newer models come with CNG options, which are even more cost-saving in the long run.
Price & Variants
The Maruti Alto is one of the cheapest cars in the market, with prices starting from ₹4.20 lakh. But that low price also means fewer features and lower safety.
If you stretch your budget just a little more (around ₹1–2 lakh extra), you can get a much better car like the Tiago or even base model of Hyundai Exter or Renault Kwid with more comfort, features, and style.
FAQs
1. Is Maruti Alto still a good car in 2025?
It’s good for city use and tight budgets, but it lags behind in features, design, and safety compared to newer cars.
2. What is the biggest drawback of Alto now?
Outdated design, poor highway performance, and lack of advanced safety features.
3. Which car is better than Alto in the same price range?
Renault Kwid offers better style and features in a similar range. Tata Tiago is more powerful and safer but costs a bit more.
4. Does Alto come with automatic transmission?
Yes, the Alto K10 has an AMT version, which is suitable for city driving.
5. Is it worth spending more than Alto’s price for better options?
Yes, spending ₹1–2 lakh more can get you a car with better safety, features, and performance.
Final Verdict
There’s no denying that the Maruti Alto was once a game-changer. But in 2025, the car market has evolved. People now want more than just basic transport—they want design, features, safety, and better performance. And the Alto is slowly getting left behind.
If you can stretch your budget slightly, there are better options available today. The Tata Tiago, Hyundai Exter, and even the Renault Kwid offer more for your money. So, it might be time to forget the Maruti Alto and drive into the future with something better.
