The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 has long been a favourite among city drivers in India. It is known for its affordability and compact design that suits busy city streets. However, with safety becoming a crucial factor for car buyers, especially in light of stricter regulations, it is essential to assess how well the Alto K10 stands up to the latest Global and Bharat NCAP safety tests.
Alto K10: A brief history
Let us take a closer look at the history of this most-loved car —
Origins in Japan (1979): The Maruti Suzuki Alto was first unveiled in Japan in 1979. It quickly became a crucial model in the compact car segment due to its practical design and affordability.
Debut in India (2000): Alto made a significant mark with its debut in India on 27th September 2000. Inspired by the fifth generation of the Suzuki Alto, it appealed to budget-conscious consumers by offering an ideal blend of economy and functionality.
Second Generation - Alto 800 (2012):
- Introduction and Rebranding: The journey continued with a significant evolution in 2012 when the second generation was introduced and rebranded as the Alto 800.
- Launch Date: Launched on 16th October 2012, the Alto 800 was a complete overhaul from its predecessor, both internally and externally.
- Enhancements: This iteration featured better styling and technological upgrades. It fully replaced the first-generation model and came with a better fuel efficiency of 24.7 kmpl. This strengthened its status as an economical choice for Indian motorists.
Alto K10 Introduction (2010)
- Robust Engine: The Alto series progressed further with the introduction of the Alto K10 in 2010. It came equipped with a strong 1.0-litre engine.
- Modern Updates: This model brought modern updates and refinements to cater to a broader audience seeking cost-effective yet capable vehicles.
- 2015 Facelift: In 2015, the Alto K10 underwent a facelift, introducing the K10B engine—a more powerful and efficient option that improved the performance and fuel economy of the vehicle.
- Transmission Options: This latest version of the K10 has both a 5-speed manual and an automatic transmission. This makes it a versatile choice for different kinds of driving preferences.
Alto K10 Global NCAP safety ratings
The Alto K10 was rigorously tested for crashworthiness in the latest evaluations by Global NCAP, and the results were mixed. The Alto safety rating was a 2-star for adult occupant protection. But, it fell short in other crucial areas.
Alto K10 adult occupant protection rating
The Alto car safety rating score out of 34 was 21.67 points for adult occupant protection. This rating indicates moderate protection. However, it also underscores compact cars' challenges in meeting higher safety benchmarks. Alto's structure was deemed stable, but the footwell area showed potential risks to the lower limbs.
Alto K10 child occupant protection rating
The Alto K10 received a worrying 0-star rating for child occupant protection, with a score of 3.52 out of 49. This highlights significant deficiencies in the car's ability to transport younger passengers safely. This is mainly for the effectiveness of its child restraint systems and the overall structural safety of the rear seats.
Alto K10 safety features list
The Alto K10 includes several safety features aimed at providing essential protection. They include:
- Dual Airbags: Standard across all variants for front occupant protection.
- ABS with EBD: Helps prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking and ensures better control under harsh braking conditions.
- Rear Parking Sensors: Assist in safe parking, which is crucial for urban environments.
- Child Safety Locks and Seatbelt Reminders: Standard features to improve the safety of all passengers.
FAQs
- What does the Alto K10 NCAP rating mean?
The 2-star rating of Alto K10 NCAP demonstrates a basic level of adult protection.
- How does the Maruti Alto K10 safety rating compare to competitors like Tata Tiago and Renault Kwid?
The Maruti Alto safety rating is below that of competitors such as the Tata Tiago and Renault Kwid, especially concerning child occupant safety measures assessed in NCAP tests.
- What is the Alto K10 crash test rating all about?
The Alto K10 crash test rating shows sufficient adult occupant protection but poor results in child occupant safety. It needs potential safety upgrades in future models.
Conclusion
The evolution of the Alto has been meeting the demands of the market so far. Securing comprehensive four wheeler insurance is crucial when you own Maruti Alto, as it offers financial protection. Third party car insurance is particularly vital. It covers damages to others in accidents and shields owners from potential liabilities. Investing in thorough car insurance ensures both compliance and security, making it a wise choice for all drivers.
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