Maruti Suzuki is reportedly planning to launch the all-new Alto 800 entry-level car in the country in 2021, claims a new media report. According to the ET Auto, MSIL will introduce 2 new entry-level cars – the Celerio and the Alto 800 in India this year. Not just Maruti Suzuki, top automakers will introduce a wide range of new cars including SUVs and MPVs in the country in the next 11-12 months.
The report further claims that close to 56 new cars will be launched in the Indian market in 2021. It is expected that the Indian auto industry will grow at 28% to 32% in the 2021, which is one of the highest in the past decade. In 2010, the industry recorded 30% growth.
The new generation Maruti Alto 800 is rumoured to be based on the new HEARTECT platform, which underpins the new WagonR and the soon-to-be-launched new-gen Celerio hatchback. The new platform is claimed to improve NVH levels, handling and power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle. The entry-level car will also receive major design changes and all-new interior.
The top-spec model is likely to receive a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The entry-level model will come with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, driver and co-driver seat belt reminder and speed alert system.
The India-spec new Suzuki Alto 800 is most likely to be powered by a 796cc naturally-aspirated petrol engine that is capable of producing 48bhp of power and 69Nm of torque. Both manual and AMT gearboxes will be on offer. The new-gen Suzuki Alto for the Japanese market will use a new R06D 658cc engine that is good for 48bhp. Suzuki is also working on a sportier version of the hatchback, which will use a turbocharged engine.
A different report claims that Maruti Suzuki will introduce the new generation Vitara Brezza in the country in the Q3, 2021. Adding to it, MSIL is also readying a new crossover based on the Baleno hatchback and an all-new mid-sized SUV to rival Hyundai Creta. The 5-door Jimny is also rumoured to be launched by July 2022.
