Maruti plans new Alto, 800 replacement

India’s largest car maker is Maruti Suzuki is planning to launch new cars in the sub 800cc segment to counter the threat from rivals Hyundai and Tata Motors.

Come 2014 and Maruti will launch the all new 800 which will replace one of India’s highest selling car. Maruti is also planning to launch a all new Alto with a new fine tuned 800cc engine.

Shinzo Nakanishi, MD of Maruti Suzuki, said that work is on to bring out a replacement for the two blockbuster models, and the new model could be expected in the next two years. “Some day we have to change… Their replacement model is under development,” Nakanishi.

“The new model will have a more contemporary shape, although it will also sport an 800cc engine . And Maruti and Suzuki engineers will try to ensure high fuel efficiency.”

The new model will have a more contemporary shape, although it will also sport an 800cc engine . And Maruti and Suzuki engineers will try to ensure high fuel efficiency. There spy pics of the new Alto caught testing.

Nakanishi, however, said that the AltoK10 (1000cc version of the Alto) would continue to sell in the market . “Who knows, we may also decide to continue with the Alto 800 and let the market take a call on its future. Nakanishi said while the new model will be aimed mainly at the domestic market, Maruti would also position it overseas, in non-EU regions like Latin America, North Africa and Asian countries.

From what we understand is that Maruti may launch a refreshed version in the first quarter of the next financial year. The replacement will add an extra cost of Rs. 550 crore on the company.