Maruti A Star

In a move to make an environment friendly car, Maruti Suzuki has come forward with its model Maruti A Star. The car is sold under the name of Suzuki Alto in international market. A-star is supposedly the 7th generation of Suzuki Alto. The small car is also sold under the badges of Nissan Pixo, Suzuki Celerio and Mazda Carol across diff regions. Maruti Suzuki A-star is one of the most awarded cars in MSIL stable; it bagged the `Car of the year’ felicitation from leading auto magazines in India. The hatchback was launched in 2008 and came to the showrooms in 2009. It was also rated `Most fuel efficient car ’, in the world by Global green challenge Australia, 2nd most environmental friendly car by VCD Germany and Total Customer Satisfaction Award in 2009-10, 2010-11. It is one of those rare models in Maruti Suzuki stable where the international sales have by far exceeded the domestic sales numbers. It is a great hit in Europe where it was designed. A-Star is marketed keeping in view the youth of India. A-Star is a machine with extraordinary power and flawless control styled to turn heads. It is a machine that leaves others way behind.  

With a petrol engine of 998cc displacement, Maruti A-Star is available in four variants viz., Maruti A-Star Lxi, Maruti A-Star Vxi with manual and AT transmission, Maruti A-Star Zxi. The price range of this car has been increased in 2012 when a facelift was launched in January.  Maruti A-Star comes under the category of hatchback body type with a fuel economy of 14 kmpl in the city and 19 kmpl on highway (ARAI certified). With 3 cylinders, MPFi system and KB series engine, A-Star is incidentally the first car of Maruti which is fitted with this new K series engine. A-Star seems to be very powerful delivering maximum of 67 bhp at the rate of 6200 rpm, while the maximum torque provided by the mill is 90 Nm at the rate of 3500 rpm. Maruti A-Star has a seating capacity for five with pretty good leg, head, hip and shoulder room. The vehicle is equipped with MacPherson Strut and Coil Spring type of suspension system that results in efficient handling while driving. With front ventilated disc and rear drum type of brakes, the handling becomes easy. Maruti A-Star also offers a best-in-class minimum turning radius of 4.50 mts. It is also equipped with five manual gears with power steering.

The company launched a new variant called Maruti A-Star Automatic on the VXi variant that is incorporated with 4 speed automatic gears added with standard ABS and driver seat adjustment. It is a welcome change in the vehicle and was much desired by the car lovers who wanted to drive their hatchback with uninterrupted acceleration.

The front seat of the Maruti A-Star has ample legroom, shoulder room, headroom and hip room. With automatic gears, the car provides smooth drive with nimble power and pick-up. Needless to say, the car responds well at every speed and takes you at your desired speed range. The suspension system on bumps does its duty well; the braking with ABS is superb. Overall the handling becomes easier and fun in Maruti Suzuki A-Star. A special mention about the transmission: the car with automatic gears is not meant for those who keep eyes on mileage, even though it delivers pretty good fuel efficiency which is better than its manual variant.

Furthermore, as far as the comfort and convenience of the passengers goes, Maruti A-Star is equipped with a standard climate control AC, Power windows, integrated audio system with 4 speakers, front and rear power windows, power steering, manual lock at the centre, remote fuel filler and folding rear seats. To secure the driver and passengers, the Maruti A-Star is loaded with a lot of passive and active safety features that include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, front seat belts pre-tensioners and force limiters, immobiliser, child proof rear door locks, security system, etc.

The interiors and exteriors of the Maruti A-Star are equipped with sound engineering and design work. The front view of the car is majestic, thanks to the swept nose of the hood, new designed headlamp cluster, extremely wide grille section and well placed front fog lamps. The fresh look of the exterior of the car is dominated by body colour at rear view mirrors, bumpers and door handles. The full wheel covers on the wheels look stunning and give the vehicle the much needed international appearance. The rear view of the hatchback speaks volumes about the sound designing of the vehicle; the rear side has vertically positioned taillights, short hatch, wide windshield and high mounted brake light.

Maruti A-Star comes with funky interiors that include crimson illuminated instrument panel with tachometer, three spoke power steering, power windows, 3 position cabin light, premium seat fabric, etc. The dashboard is designed in a very stylish way that houses audio system, AC controls, AC vents, glove box, etc. A facelift of Maruti A-Star was silently slipped in 2012. It boasts of new features in its interiors which are Spiced-Up, according to the company. The dual `grey and beige’ interiors impart freshness to the new car. Complimented by rich beige upholstery, the interiors are refreshing. Smart interplay of colors, imparts roominess. Maruti Suzuki’s engineers reworked on the front headrests to give a roomier feeling to the interiors. The 50:50 rear split seats have enhanced usability and boot space. In addition, useful and handy cubby holes, bottle holders have been created for passenger comfort and ease.

Styling of the Maruti A-Star is typically European - the low slung grille, elliptical glasshouse, sweeping oversized headlamps and compact dimensions give the car the necessary character. It has a good road presence. One of the most striking features of A-Star is the highly contoured rear bumper which brings in the cool quotient to the premium A2 segment car.

For the compact body, Suzuki designers tailored a stylish, sporty and youthful look for Maruti A-Star that simultaneously exudes solidity and urban energy. It is perfectly matched to European tastes and supports a low drag coefficient. It has a bold design language with strong lines and large wheel arches. The "A" in the A-Star stands for Aerodynamics. The car pierces the wind like a bullet. The 2012 Maruti Suzuki A-Star facelift has been given a rear spoiler for more aerodynamics. Glistening Grey and Pearl Caffein Brown are the new colors added in the line-up of A-Star. ABS and Airbags are now available as an option for the customers. New alloys wheels adorn the side profile of Maruti A-star now.

The good thing about the car is that all such attractive features are available at very affordable prices. Moreover it is Hyundai i10's closest competitor which is now loaded with automatic gears and ABS. With the contemporary styling, dynamic handling and ride quality, best in class turning radius, power, flat torque and superior performance, A-star is a popular choice especially amidst the youth.