Maruti Alto K10 LXI CNG

Maruti Alto K10 is one of the most successful cars from the stable of MSIL. The company has launched its facelifted version with petrol, and CNG fuel options for the buyers to choose from. Among those, the Maruti Alto K10 LXi CNG is the mid range variant. It is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine, which can displace 998cc and it is also accompanied by a CNG fuel kit. In the CNG mode it has the ability to churn out a maximum power of 58.2bhp in combination with 78Nm of peak torque output. At the same time, this motor allows the hatchback to generate about 32.26 Km/kg of decent mileage. This power plant is coupled with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which sends the engine power to its front wheels. The company has modified its exteriors with a new radiator grille, which has a single chrome slat, redesigned headlight cluster and bumper. On the other hand, it has a spacious internal cabin, which is bestowed with quite a few features like new dashboard with redesigned AC vents and 3-spoke steering wheel. Apart from these, the company has also given it a few protective aspects like seat belt for all passengers, rear doors with child safety locks and front ventilated disc brakes. It is being offered with a standard warranty of two years or 40000 Kilometers, whichever comes first.

Exteriors:

The front fascia is designed with a bold radiator grille, which is embossed with a prominent 'S' logo in the center. This grille is surrounded by a newly designed headlight cluster, which is incorporated with bright clear lens lamps and turn indicator. The front body colored bumper houses a wide air intake section along with a provision for fog lamps. Its windshield is made of tinted glass and is integrated with pair of wipers. Coming to the side profile, its wheel arches are equipped with a set of 13-inch steel wheels with center caps. These rims are further covered with 155/65 R13 sized tubeless radial tyres. The door handles and internally adjustable outside rear view mirrors are painted in black color. Its rear end has a curvy boot lid with variant badging, a body colored bumper and a radiant tail light cluster. The windscreen is fitted with a high mounted stop lamp. Its has a wheelbase of 2360mm along with a minimum ground clearance of 160mm. Its overall length, width and height measures about 3545mm, 1490mm and 1475mm respectively. At present, the manufacturer is selling this trim is quite a few exterior paint options, which are Silky Silver, Fire Brick Red, Superior White, Granite Grey and a new Cerulam Blue finish.

Interiors:

The spacious internal cabin of this Maruti Alto K10 LXi CNG trim is incorporated with well cushioned seats, which provides ample leg space for all occupants. These are integrated with head restraints and covered with fabric upholstery. Its dashboard is equipped with a few features like a 3-spoke steering wheel, a new instrument panel, a glove box and redesigned AC vents. The instrument panel is integrated with a few functions for convenience of the driver. It also has a speedometer with amber color illumination that enhances the look of cabin. Its redesigned steering wheel has been decorated with the company's logo, which compliments the elegance of interiors. There are a few utility aspects provided inside like storage box, rear parcel tray, dual front sun visors and an inside rear view mirror.

Engine and Performance:

This particular variant is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol mill, which is also associated with a CNG fuel kit. This engine is integrated with 3-cylinders and 12-valves that displaces 998cc. In CNG mode it has the ability to generate a maximum power of 58.2bhp at 6000rpm in combination with a peak torque output of 78Nm at 3500rpm. However, in petrol mode, it can produce 67.1bhp of power at 6000rpm in combination with a peak torque output of 90Nm at 3500rpm. This power plant is skillfully coupled with a five speed manual transmission gearbox, which sends the engine power to its front wheels. With the help of a multi point fuel injection supply system, it gives out a maximum mileage of 31.7 Kg/kg, which is rather good. It can achieve a top speed in the range of 135 to 145 Kmph and can cross the speed barrier of 60 Kmph in just 5.3 seconds.

Braking and Handling:

The manufacturer has given this small car a proficient suspension and braking mechanism. Its front axle is assembled with gas filled McPherson strut, whereas the rear axle gets a three link rigid axle suspension system. Its front wheels are fitted with a set of ventilated disc while the rear ones are paired with drum brakes. This variant is bestowed with a highly responsive power assisted steering system, which supports a turning radius of 4.6 meters.

Comfort Features:

Being the entry level variant, this Maruti Alto K10 LXi CNG trim is equipped with quite a few standard features. It is bestowed with aspects such as fuel lid and tail gate opener, rear seat backrest with folding function, internal room lamp, and manual central locking. Apart from these, it also has molded door trims, body colored inside door handles, cup holders in floor console, an ashtray, power steering system and a stylish gear shift knob. It also has an efficient air conditioning unit with a heater, which regulates the air temperature inside.

Safety Features:

This variant is equipped with a lot of protective features, which includes rear doors with child safety lock and seat belts for all passengers along. In addition to these, it is also equipped with headlight leveling device and a centrally located high mount stop lamp. Its rigid body structure has side impact beams, which protects the passengers in case of a collision. It also has an engine immobilizer that prevents any unauthorized access to the car.

Pros:

1. Striking exteriors with updated features.

2. Improved fuel economy is its advantage.

Cons:

1. Low ground clearance is a drawback.

2. A few more safety and comfort features can be added.