Maruti plans to replace its age older Maruti 800 with a completely new model. The same F8D engine of Alto has been updated by Maruti in order to power the new model. The company’s new model is expected to be launched by this year end at a price tag of Rs.2.5 lakhs to Rs.3.5 lakhs.
Maruti had already stopped selling the Maruti 800 in India’s top cities from September 2010 itself. This is because, the Maruti 800 could not meet the Bharat Stage IV emission norms which were made mandatory in those cities from that time.
Sources informed, “A replacement for the 800cc model makes sense as it hasn’t been selling very aggressively at about 2,000 units a month. This will be a totally new small car, though based on an existing platform. The existing two Alto models will remain since they have strong volumes (around 20,000 units/month).The market leader will focus on fuel efficiency and low maintenance as the primary drivers — the main purchase considerations in the compact segment. However, the design of the new model will be sharp and reflect Maruti’s new styling language.”