When it comes to buying a used car in India, the Maruti Suzuki Alto is often one of the first names that comes to mind. Known for its affordability, ease of maintenance, and trusted performance, the Alto has consistently ranked among the top-selling hatchbacks in the country. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer, someone looking for a reliable second vehicle, or a college student on a budget, a used Maruti Suzuki Alto makes for a practical choice.
In this guide, we’ll help you make an informed decision on buying a used Alto. From understanding depreciation and the best variant to choose, to comparing fuel options and estimating ownership costs, this blog covers all the key checkpoints. If you’re eyeing a second-hand Alto, this article will help you navigate your purchase with confidence.
Best Age of Used Maruti Suzuki Alto to Buy
The Maruti Suzuki Alto has been around for over two decades, with major updates like the Alto 800 and Alto K10 catering to different budget and performance preferences. If you’re buying a used Maruti Suzuki Alto, understanding depreciation is key to finding the sweet spot between price and performance.
Depreciation Trend
Like most budget hatchbacks, the Alto sees a rapid depreciation in the first few years. Here’s a simplified breakdown based on an average ex-showroom price of ₹3.5 lakh (for the Alto 800 VXI variant):
1 year old: ~10-15% depreciation → ₹3.0-3.15 lakh
3 years old: ~25-30% depreciation → ₹2.4-2.6 lakh
5 years old: ~40-45% depreciation → ₹1.9-2.1 lakh
7+ years old: ~55-65% depreciation → ₹1.2-1.6 lakh
Best Age Recommendation
A 3-5 year old used Maruti Suzuki Alto is usually the best buy. At this age, the car has already taken the biggest hit in depreciation but is still recent enough to offer modern features, decent mileage, and lower maintenance concerns. These models are often still within the extended warranty period or can be covered under used car warranties for peace of mind.
Avoid going for vehicles older than 8-10 years unless they are extremely well maintained and have low mileage. Not only do older models face higher wear and tear, but they also may not meet current BS6 emission norms.
Best Used Maruti Suzuki Alto Variant to Buy
The Maruti Suzuki Alto has seen multiple iterations, most notably the Alto 800 and Alto K10. Both cater to slightly different audiences: the Alto 800 focuses on fuel efficiency and affordability, while the K10 offers better performance and newer features.
Among these, some variants stand out when it comes to value for money in the used car market.
Best Value-for-Money Variant
For most buyers, the Alto K10 VXI (O) or Alto 800 VXI (O) is the ideal pick. These variants strike a great balance between pricing and features and often come with:
Dual front airbags
Front power windows
Body-colored bumpers and ORVMs
Integrated music system (in some cases)
ABS with EBD (in BS6 models)
Remote keyless entry (for newer versions)
The “(O)” or Optional pack ensures the presence of a passenger airbag and other safety features that are crucial, especially if you’re buying an older model that predates mandatory safety regulations.
If you’re going for a used Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, you’ll also benefit from its peppier 1.0L engine, which performs better on highways and during overtaking.
Used Maruti Suzuki Alto Petrol vs Used Maruti Suzuki Alto CNG
When buying a used Maruti Suzuki Alto, one of the key decisions is choosing between the Petrol and CNG variants. Both have their pros and cons depending on how you plan to use the car.
Petrol Variant
Engine: Available in both Alto 800 (0.8L) and Alto K10 (1.0L)
Mileage: ~22-24 km/l (ARAI)
Performance: Smoother and more responsive than CNG
Maintenance: Lower long-term maintenance as no CNG kit parts are involved
Ideal for: Occasional or mixed city-highway use, users who prefer quicker acceleration
CNG Variant (Factory-Fitted)
Engine: Only available in Alto 800
Mileage: ~31-33 km/kg
Performance: Lower power delivery, especially with AC on
Maintenance: Slightly higher; requires periodic CNG kit servicing
Ideal for: Daily city commuters covering more than 40-50 km/day
Fuel Cost Advantage: CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol, making it cost-effective for high-mileage users
Verdict
If your daily commute is low to moderate, go for a used Maruti Suzuki Alto Petrol, especially the K10, for its better engine performance. If your usage involves heavy city driving and you’re looking to save on fuel, the used Alto 800 CNG is a budget-friendly winner.
Used Maruti Suzuki Alto Ownership Calculator
While the used Maruti Suzuki Alto is known for its low cost of ownership, it’s important to understand the typical expenses you might incur annually (excluding the purchase cost). Here’s a breakdown of average yearly expenses for an Alto owner in India:
Annual Service Cost
Routine service (engine oil, oil filter, air filter, etc.): ₹4,000-₹5,000
Labour charges at authorized workshops: ₹1,000-₹1,500
Total Annual Servicing: ₹5,000-₹6,500
If serviced at local garages, this cost can drop by 20-30%.
Tyre Replacement Cost
The Alto comes with 145/80 R12 tyres (depending on the variant).
Tyre life: ~40,000-50,000 km
Replacement cost (set of 4 tyres): ₹10,000-₹12,000
If you drive ~10,000 km/year, expect this cost once every 4-5 years.
Battery Replacement
Battery life: 3-5 years
Cost: ₹3,500-₹4,500 depending on brand and warranty
Common Wear-and-Tear Parts
| Part | Replacement Interval | Approximate Cost |
| Brake pads | Every 20,000-25,000 km | ₹1,200-₹1,800 |
| Clutch plate (K10 variants) | Every 60,000-80,000 km | ₹4,000-₹5,000 |
| Wiper blades | Every 1-2 years | ₹500-₹700 |
| Headlight/taillight bulb | As needed | ₹200-₹400 |
Insurance
Third-party: ₹2,000-₹2,500/year
Comprehensive (recommended): ₹3,500-₹5,000/year (for a car <5 years old)
In total, you can expect to spend ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per year on upkeep (excluding fuel and insurance). This makes the used Maruti Suzuki Alto one of the most cost-efficient cars to maintain in India.
Upgrades for Used Maruti Suzuki Alto
Buying a used Maruti Suzuki Alto doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort or aesthetics. With a few smart upgrades, you can improve your Alto’s driving experience, safety, and overall feel, without burning a hole in your pocket.
Tyre and Wheel Upgrades
Why upgrade? Stock tyres on the Alto are relatively narrow, which can limit grip and stability.
Suggested upgrade: Shift from 145/80 R12 to 155/70 R13 (if the variant allows).
Benefits: Better road grip, improved handling, and enhanced braking.
Infotainment System
Stock system: Basic 2-DIN audio system or sometimes no infotainment in base variants
Upgrade options:
Android touchscreen infotainment units (~₹5,000-₹12,000)
Bluetooth-enabled systems for music + calls
Benefits: Navigation, hands-free calls, reverse camera integration
Interior Comfort
Seat covers: PU leather seat covers add comfort and class (₹2,000-₹5,000)
Floor mats and ambient lighting: Enhances aesthetics and cleanliness
Roof liner replacement (for older cars): Improves cabin look and insulation
Safety Add-ons
Rear parking sensors or camera: Useful in tight urban spaces (₹1,500-₹4,000)
Upgraded headlamps: Brighter halogen or LED bulbs for improved night visibility
Fire extinguisher and first-aid kit: Always good to have in older vehicles
Exterior Enhancements
Alloy wheels (if your model has steel rims)
Body graphics and stickers (available from Maruti dealerships or after-market)
Wind deflectors and side door cladding: For both style and function
These upgrades can significantly improve your experience with a used Alto, especially if you plan to keep it for the long term.
Summary
The used Maruti Suzuki Alto continues to be one of the smartest buys in the Indian pre-owned car market. Whether you go for the efficient Alto 800 or the more powerful Alto K10, both offer excellent value for money, minimal maintenance costs, and proven reliability.
Best age to buy: 3-5 years old for optimal depreciation vs. performance balance
Recommended variant: VXI (O) trims offer essential safety and convenience features
Fuel type: Choose petrol for performance and lower upkeep; opt for CNG if your running is high and limited to the city.
Ownership costs: Annual maintenance remains low- ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 on average.
Upgrades: Small changes in tyres, infotainment, and safety gear can transform your used Alto into a more modern and comfortable ride
With the right approach and a bit of homework, a used Alto can serve as a practical, efficient, and dependable companion, especially for city life.
FAQs About Used Maruti Suzuki Alto
What is the average mileage of a used Maruti Suzuki Alto?
The mileage depends on the variant and fuel type. A used Alto 800 petrol typically offers around 18-20 km/l in real-world conditions, while a CNG version can give up to 28-30 km/kg in city usage.
How reliable is the used Alto for long-term ownership?
The Maruti Suzuki Alto is known for its durability and low maintenance. If serviced regularly and driven responsibly, even a 7-8 year old used Alto can perform reliably for years.
How do I check if the CNG kit in a used Alto is factory-fitted or aftermarket?
Check the registration certificate (RC) for fuel type. Factory-fitted CNG cars will mention ‘Petrol+CNG’ officially and usually have Maruti’s warranty tag on the CNG kit. Aftermarket kits often lack these identifiers.
Can I get spare parts easily for an older used Maruti Suzuki Alto?
Yes. Maruti Suzuki has an extensive service network, and parts availability for the Alto is among the best in India, even for older models.
Is the Alto K10 better than the Alto 800 in the used market?
Yes, if you’re looking for better highway performance and features. The used Alto K10 comes with a more powerful engine, better gearbox options (including AMT), and smoother drivability. However, the Alto 800 is more fuel-efficient and cheaper to maintain.
