The Maruti Alto 800 and Renault Kwid have long dominated India’s entry-level hatchback market. In November 2025, Maruti Suzuki unveiled the new Alto 800 (2025) with updated design, improved safety, and a fuel-efficient engine aimed squarely at first-time car buyers.
Meanwhile, Renault’s Kwid 2025 refresh continues to attract buyers with its SUV-inspired styling and feature-packed cabin. Both cars target young professionals, students, and small families upgrading from two-wheelers.
So, between the new Alto 800 2025 and the Renault Kwid, which small car offers better value for your money in India today?
Let’s compare their design, performance, mileage, safety, and on-road prices in detail.
Design & Dimensions
| Feature | Maruti Alto 800 (2025) | Renault Kwid (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3,495 mm | 3,731 mm |
| Width | 1,495 mm | 1,579 mm |
| Height | 1,520 mm | 1,490 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,380 mm | 2,420 mm |
| Boot Space | 215 L | 279 L |
The new Alto 800 now rides on a slightly wider stance with redesigned bumpers and LED DRLs. The subtle chrome accents give it a more mature look while retaining its compact practicality for city driving.
The Kwid, on the other hand, remains the more stylish of the two. Its SUV-like cladding, high ground clearance (184 mm), and dual-tone colour options continue to attract younger buyers.
Verdict: Kwid wins on design appeal, while Alto 800 remains the easier-to-drive and park city car.
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Maruti Alto 800 (2025) | Renault Kwid (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 0.8L F8D Petrol | 1.0L SCe Petrol |
| Power | 49 bhp | 67 bhp |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed MT / AMT | 5-speed MT / AMT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG | Petrol |
Maruti’s 0.8L engine remains focused on fuel economy and simplicity. The Kwid’s larger 1.0L motor, however, offers more pep for highway drives. Both come with AMT options, improving convenience in traffic-heavy Indian cities.
Verdict: Kwid wins for power and highway usability; Alto excels in refinement and fuel efficiency.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
| Fuel Type | Alto 800 (2025) | Kwid (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 25 km/l | 22 km/l |
| CNG | 34.5 km/kg | — |
The CNG variant of the Alto 800 gives it a clear edge for running costs. It’s ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those who drive long distances daily.
Verdict: Alto leads in mileage and fuel savings; Kwid focuses on performance.
Ride Comfort & Handling
The new Alto 800 has improved suspension tuning, making it more stable on uneven Indian roads. The electric power steering feels light and responsive, perfect for tight city lanes.
The Kwid’s wider track and taller stance offer slightly better highway confidence. Its suspension setup, however, is stiffer, which can make slow-speed rides a bit firm.
Verdict: Alto offers a smoother ride in the city, while Kwid feels more planted on open roads.
Safety & Build
| Feature | Alto 800 (2025) | Kwid (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | Dual front (Standard) | Dual front (Standard) |
| ABS + EBD | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Assist | No | Yes (AMT only) |
| Body Structure | Heartect platform | Reinforced steel frame |
Maruti’s new Heartect platform enhances crash protection and rigidity, while Renault continues to focus on structural strength and high ground clearance.
Both meet BS6 Phase II and AIS-145 safety norms.
Verdict: A tie — both cars meet essential safety needs for small families, though Kwid’s hill assist adds convenience for AMT users.
Interior & Features
| Feature | Alto 800 (2025) | Kwid (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Infotainment | 7-inch SmartPlay Studio | 8-inch MediaNav |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Yes | Yes |
| Steering-Mounted Controls | Yes | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital MID | Full Digital |
| Air Conditioning | Manual | Manual |
| Rear Parking Camera | No | Yes |
The Kwid offers a more premium cabin experience with a digital dashboard and rear camera. The Alto 800, however, remains practical and user-friendly, with high seating and great visibility.
Verdict: Kwid feels more feature-rich, while Alto focuses on simplicity and comfort.
Practicality & Family Use
The Alto 800 is narrower but excels in ease of use for new drivers. Entry and exit are easier for senior citizens, and the cabin’s AC cooling is effective even in hot Indian summers.
The Kwid’s bigger boot and slightly roomier rear seat make it better for small families who travel often.
Verdict: Alto wins on daily comfort and drivability; Kwid scores on weekend practicality.
Price & Variants (November 2025, Ex-Showroom India)
| Model | Variants | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Alto 800 2025 Petrol | Std, LXi, VXi | ₹3.99 – ₹5.25 lakh |
| Maruti Alto 800 2025 CNG | LXi S-CNG | ₹5.65 lakh |
| Renault Kwid 2025 Petrol | RXE, RXL(O), Climber | ₹4.99 – ₹6.49 lakh |
Verdict: Alto remains India’s most affordable 4-wheeler, while Kwid offers more features at a higher price.
EMI & On-Road Pricing (Estimated, November 2025)
| Model | On-Road Price (₹) | Down Payment | EMI (5 years @ 9%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alto 800 LXi Petrol | ₹5.10 lakh | ₹50,000 | ₹8,900/month |
| Alto 800 S-CNG | ₹5.65 lakh | ₹60,000 | ₹9,800/month |
| Kwid RXL(O) | ₹6.10 lakh | ₹60,000 | ₹10,700/month |
Verdict: Alto’s EMI and fuel costs remain unmatched for first-time Indian car buyers.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Maruti’s extensive service network ensures easy access and low costs. The annual maintenance for the Alto averages ₹4,000–₹5,000, while the Kwid costs about ₹5,500–₹6,000.
Verdict: Alto is cheaper to maintain, thanks to wider parts availability and smaller engine displacement.
Which Hatchback Should You Buy?
-
Choose Alto 800 (2025) if you want a budget-friendly, fuel-efficient, and compact car for city use.
-
Choose Kwid (2025) if you prefer style, features, and slightly more power for mixed driving.
Verdict: Alto is the smarter daily commuter; Kwid is the stylish weekend all-rounder.
Final Verdict
The Maruti Alto 800 (2025) continues to be India’s go-to small car for reliability, mileage, and affordability. Its refreshed design, CNG efficiency, and low EMI plans make it perfect for budget-conscious families and first-time car owners.
The Renault Kwid (2025) remains the style-driven alternative with extra features and space, ideal for buyers seeking more visual appeal and comfort.
Overall Verdict: The Alto 800 2025 wins for practicality and long-term economy, while the Kwid stands out for design and premium feel.
FAQs
Which car has better mileage?
The Alto 800 CNG delivers up to 34.5 km/kg, far higher than the Kwid’s 22 km/l.
Which is safer, Alto 800 or Kwid?
Both have dual airbags and ABS; Kwid offers hill assist on AMT variants.
Which car is cheaper to maintain?
The Alto’s service and parts costs are lower, averaging ₹4,000–₹5,000 per year.
Which car is better for first-time buyers?
The Alto 800 is ideal — compact, easy to park, fuel-efficient, and affordable.
Does the Kwid offer an automatic version?
Yes, the Kwid 1.0L AMT is available in select variants for added convenience.
Click here to know more.