Introduction

The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is a small car for the more demanding customers, in terms of performance.  It is available in six variants, namely, LX, LXi, VXi, VXi optional, LXi CNG and VXi AT. The LXi has a CNG optionwhile the Vxi comes with an AMT (automated manual transmission) option. The Vxi also has an integrated audio system with USB, over the LXi and also has a driverside airbag as an option. The Alto K10 is a popular car amongst buyers and provides a good mix of economy, practicality and performance.

Design

The Alto K10 exteriors are largely similar to its 800cc sibling but have some subtle differences.  A large chrome grille with a Suzuki logo and upside down rectangular air intake differentiate the K10 from the Alto 800. Larger headlamps curving of the bonnet over head lamps is also different. A new bumper with intergrated foglamps add to some sportiness. The side profile of the K10 is identical to the Alto 800, such as the rear sloping roofline and the creases. It also sports larger outside rear view mirrors. The rear has bigger tail lamps, which are somewhat different from the Alto 800. The number plate slot is on the bumper and the tail lamps a flattened for the car to look bigger. The Alto K10 measures 3,545mm in length, 1,490mm in width and 1,475mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,360mm. It has a ground clearance of 160mm and a turning radius of 4.6m. The car gets 13-inch wheels with 155/65 R13 tubeless tyres and weighs from 740kgs for the LX variant and upto 755 kgs for the Vxi (O) variant.

The Alto 800 is available in six colour options. They are Tango Orange, Cerulean Blue, Granite Grey, Fire Brick Red, Silky Silver and Superior White.

Interior

The interiors of the Alto K10 are totally new and different from the Alto 800. The console and the dashboard has a black and beige tone. The three-spoke steering wheel has silver accents.The centre houses a Mp3 player with USB and Aux inputs and is surrounded by a piano balck finish. The buttons are big and clear and hence easy and convenient to use. The Alto K10 has rich beige fabric seats that add some premium feel in the cabin. The cabin space is sufficient and also feels airy. The front seats are comfortable and offer decent support even during longer hours of driving. In the second row there is sufficient kneeroom even for tall people and there is enough head room as well.

Engine and Performance

The Alto K10 has a 1.0-litre three engine that produces 67bhp and 90Nm of torque. Is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The Alto K10 also has an option if a five-speed AMT  in the Vxi trim. This is the same AMT that does duty in the Maruti Celerio. The same 1.0-litre engine is also offered in the CNG variant  and theat comes in the Lxi trim. The engine provides sufficient power having smooth and linear acceleration. However, it needs to be revved high to extract good performance. It is a punchy engine and is also good for highway runs. The engine has low NVH levels. The AMT acts as boon in traffic conditions. It  is very similar to the manual version but without the clutchm hence it results in lower fatigue for the driver. The Alto K10 uses gas filled McPherson Strut in the front and coil spring, and three link rigid axle suspension at the rear to provide an improved ride quality.  The Alto 800 has ventilated discs brakes in the front and drum brakes at the rear.

Mileage

The Alto K10 is a very fuel efficient car with an ARAI certified mileage of 24.07 km/l. The CNG variant has an efficiency of 32.26 kg/km.

Safety and Security

The Alto K10 comes with an optional Airbag on the VXi variant. It has an immobilizer and a collapsible steering column. There is no ABS offered on any of the variants.

Pros

• Front bold looks
• Lightweight build
• Well-finished stylish interiors
• High fuel efficiency
• Good performance
• AMT option
• CNG option

Cons

• Interior space
• Lack of ABS