Maruti Suzuki introduces an airbag in the Alto 800 VXi

Maruti Suzuki has added a driver airbag as an optional extra to the Alto 800's VXi variant. The VXi variant was introduced on the Maruti Alto 800 a few weeks ago. Specifying the driver side airbag for the Alto 800's VXi variant will cost the buyer an additional sum of 18,000 rupees. The car is priced at 3.35 lakh rupees, ex-showroom Delhi. (For the metallic variant)

The driver's side airbag was already available on the LXi variant of the Alto 800. However, the Alto 800 VXi is the top end variant in the small car's line up and comes with additional features, over and above the features available on the LXi variant. You may click here for a complete overview of the Alto 800 VXi. 

The Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 is an entry level hatchback that competes in the segment populated by the likes of the Tata Nano and the Hyundai Eon. Late last year, the Alto 800 replaced the Alto F8D. The Alto hatchback series, including the K10 model, is Maruti Suzuki's best selling car range, with average monthly sales close to the 20,000 units mark. 

Powered by a revamped F8D engine displacing 796cc in a three cylinder layout, the Alto 800 comes with a 48 PS-69 Nm power and torque output. The engine is mated to a five speed manual gearbox as standard. Maruti's engineers have tweaked the car's engine to deliver a better mileage figure than the older Alto F8D version. The new car manages an ARAI claimed 22.7 Kmpl. 

The Alto 800 is also available with a CNG-Petrol dual fuel option. The dual fuel variant of the small car is sold in specific markets of India, where CNG dispensing infrastructure is well developed. CNG powered cars serve a cost effective alternative to diesel powered models, especially in the small car segment, where the addition of a diesel engine could push costs to levels that are unaffordable for most first time buyers.