The Maruti Alto K10 2025 has officially entered the Indian market, taking on its long-standing sibling, the Alto 800, in the entry-level hatchback segment. Both cars aim to attract first-time buyers looking for affordability, high mileage, and low maintenance.
As of November 2025, Maruti Suzuki continues to dominate India’s small-car segment. With the 2025 update, the Alto K10 introduces a refreshed design, improved safety features, and better fuel efficiency, while the Alto 800 remains the budget favourite. Let’s see which one suits Indian buyers better this year.
Design and Build Quality
| Feature | Maruti Alto K10 2025 | Maruti Alto 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Heartect | Previous-gen F8D |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 3,530 x 1,490 x 1,520 mm | 3,445 x 1,490 x 1,475 mm |
| Weight | 755 kg | 730 kg |
| Boot Space | 214 litres | 177 litres |
The Alto K10 looks sharper and more modern, adopting Maruti’s new design philosophy. The larger grille, higher bonnet line, and revised headlamps give it a more urban-friendly stance. The Alto 800, however, retains its compact charm, perfect for tight city lanes and easy parking.
Verdict: The Alto K10 feels more contemporary and spacious, while the Alto 800 still wins on sheer simplicity and compact usability.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside, the Alto K10 2025 offers a fresher dashboard layout and upgraded materials compared to the older Alto 800.
| Interior Feature | Alto K10 2025 | Alto 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | 7-inch SmartPlay Studio touchscreen | 2-DIN music system |
| Steering | Tilt-adjustable | Fixed |
| Power Windows | Front only | Front only |
| Air Conditioning | Manual with improved compressor | Manual |
| Upholstery | Dual-tone fabric | Single-tone cloth |
The K10’s infotainment system supports smartphone connectivity, and its cabin insulation is noticeably better. Both offer basic practicality, but the K10 adds modern convenience for daily driving.
Verdict: The Alto K10 edges ahead with better tech and cabin finish, making it feel more upmarket despite similar dimensions.
Performance and Engine Efficiency
| Specification | Alto K10 2025 | Alto 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L K10C DualJet | 0.8L F8D |
| Power | 66 bhp | 48 bhp |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT / AMT | 5-speed MT |
| Claimed Mileage | 25.3 km/l (Petrol) | 22.05 km/l |
| CNG Mileage | 33.8 km/kg | 31.5 km/kg |
The Alto K10’s DualJet engine delivers peppier acceleration and smoother city performance. The AMT gearbox further adds convenience, especially in traffic-heavy Indian cities. The Alto 800 remains frugal but feels underpowered on highways.
Verdict: Alto K10 is better suited for modern commuting and occasional highway runs; Alto 800 excels as a pure city car.
Ride, Handling, and Suspension
The new K10 is built on Maruti’s Heartect platform, offering improved crash rigidity and handling stability. Its suspension absorbs potholes better, providing a smoother ride on Indian roads.
The Alto 800’s lightweight chassis still ensures nimble manoeuvring but feels less planted above 90 km/h. Steering feedback is slightly better tuned in the K10, especially at low speeds.
Verdict: The Alto K10 offers a more confident, comfortable ride, ideal for both city and semi-highway travel.
Safety Features
| Safety Feature | Alto K10 2025 | Alto 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | Dual front | Dual front |
| ABS with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| ESP | Available (AMT variants) | No |
| Seat Belt Reminder | Yes | Yes |
The addition of Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill Hold Control in the AMT version of the K10 gives it a notable edge. The stronger Heartect body structure also improves crash protection compared to the older Alto 800 platform.
Verdict: Alto K10 leads with added safety tech and better build quality for 2025 standards.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
In real-world Indian driving conditions:
| Variant | City Mileage | Highway Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| Alto K10 Petrol | 20–22 km/l | 24–26 km/l |
| Alto K10 CNG | 31–33 km/kg | 34–35 km/kg |
| Alto 800 Petrol | 18–20 km/l | 22–23 km/l |
| Alto 800 CNG | 29–31 km/kg | 32–33 km/kg |
Verdict: Both cars are efficient, but the K10’s new-generation DualJet motor ensures slightly better fuel economy and refinement.
Variant-Wise Price Comparison (India, November 2025)
| Variant | Alto K10 2025 (₹) | Alto 800 (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Base (LXi) | 4.65 lakh | 4.10 lakh |
| VXi | 5.05 lakh | 4.45 lakh |
| VXi+ (Touchscreen) | 5.45 lakh | — |
| AMT | 5.90 lakh | — |
| CNG (VXi) | 5.80 lakh | 5.25 lakh |
Maruti continues to maintain value-based pricing for both models. The K10 commands a modest premium but justifies it with added features and safety.
Verdict: The Alto 800 remains the cheapest entry point, while the K10 offers a better all-round ownership experience.
Maintenance and Ownership
Both cars benefit from Maruti’s large service network and low-cost parts. However, the K10’s newer engine design results in longer service intervals and lower emissions.
Estimated annual maintenance:
-
Alto 800: ₹4,500–₹5,000
-
Alto K10: ₹5,500–₹6,000
Verdict: Maintenance difference is minimal; both are among the most affordable cars to own in India.
Final Verdict
For Indian buyers in 2025, the Maruti Alto K10 stands out as the more balanced choice, combining new-age styling, improved safety, and refined performance. The Alto 800, though still relevant for tight budgets, is beginning to feel dated in terms of features and power.
Verdict:
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Buy Alto K10 2025 if you want a feature-rich, fuel-efficient daily driver with modern safety.
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Buy Alto 800 if budget and short-distance commuting are your top priorities.
FAQs
Which car has better mileage in 2025?
The Alto K10 offers slightly better mileage—up to 26 km/l on petrol and 35 km/kg on CNG.
Does Alto K10 2025 have AMT?
Yes, the Alto K10 2025 comes with a 5-speed AMT option for smoother city drives.
Which car is safer for families?
The Alto K10, built on the Heartect platform with ESP and dual airbags, is the safer option.
What is the price difference between the two?
Depending on the variant, the K10 costs ₹50,000–₹70,000 more than the Alto 800.
Which should a first-time buyer choose?
If you can stretch the budget slightly, the Alto K10 2025 provides a longer-term, safer, and more comfortable experience.