So you prefer going for the tried-and-trusted. You don’t mind owning the same car as that of the Mehtas next door. You want to be reassured that there is a friendly neighbourhood dealership wherever you go in India. In short, you are the picture-perfect Maruti Suzuki customer. You can’t go wrong with a Maruti, right? Well you can, if you end up with the wrong small car. When there are seven – yes, count them all — Maruti Suzuki hatchbacks between Rs 2 and 6 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Mumbai) vying for your attention, it’s quite possible. So we’ve put together a ‘mini small Maruti Suzuki buyer’s guide’ to help you arrive at the right one.
Maruti Suzuki 800
 Yes, it is still being produced and that too in four iterations, with two LPG versions stretching your money even further. These are Altos that are four generations old, but still surprisingly modern to look at and easy to pilot — especially in traffic.
Which version to pick?
Choose the AC LPG version if you want the most economical car in the whole world (this side of the Tata Nano, of course) for just Rs 2.7 lakh. But the Nano equivalent is the base standard model without air-conditioning at Rs 2.25 lakh, it’s brilliant value.
Why should you stay away?
This car is terribly common on our roads and is almost at the rock bottom of the automotive food chain. Safety features have been improved a great deal in the last 25 years. Anyway, it’s not available new in the 13 metros in the country. If you insist, buy a low mileage example from the used car market and save even more!
Maruti Suzuki Alto
 A notch superior to the Maruti Suzuki 800, the Alto uses the same engine. Ride quality on our roads is better and it is as driveable in traffic as the 800. This car should be a strong contender for a second car for the family — something to potter around to the closest mall in. Luggage room and overall versatility of the cabin is amazing too.
Which version to pick?
Spend Rs 3.3 lakh and you get the top-end LXi model that can be all the car you need in the city. Not as stylish as the A-Star, but close to 18 kpl on a regular basis should warm your heart.
Why should you stay away?
It may be called the Alto in India but the real, genuine Alto is sold in the country as the A-Star, which looks more contemporary and hence stylish. The A-Star gets the new K-Series engine too.
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