The next-gen Maruti Alto (production Future-S) has
been spied undergoing high-altitude testing in Kufri, Himachal Pradesh. In
related news, it was reported earlier today that production of the Maruti Alto
800 has ceased.
The next-gen Maruti Alto will be based on the
Concept Future-S cross-hatch concept that debuted at Auto Expo 2018. The
talking point of this design study is its SUV-like proportions, which are
likely to help the production version compete directly with the Renault Kwid
and capitalise on the ever-growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs.
The next-gen Maruti Alto, which has been internally
codenamed ‘Maruti Y1K', is expected to ride on the lightweight fifth-gen
HEARTECT platform from the 2019 WagonR. It is said to come with only an
upgraded version of the K10B 1.0-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder that
produces 68 PS and 90 Nm in the current form.
The redesigned model will be much safer than the
model it will replace and come equipped with all the safety features that will
be mandatory by July as standard: driver airbag, rear parking sensors,
high-speed warning system, driver and co-driver seatbelt reminder, manual
override for central locking system and ABS. Maruti Suzuki will ensure that its
structure is strong enough to withstand the impacts in BNVSAP crash tests,
passing which will become mandatory in October.
