The popularity of Maruti’s trendy hatch Alto 800 is not a secret anymore; it is probably the most appreciated model by the common people who always wanted to buy its first car. There was a time when Maruti Alto 800 had become the synonym for hatchback model. Well, time changes and so does the competition. Today, there is a bulk of models in same segment such as Hyundai Eon, Renault Kwid etc which are capable enough to take over this classy hatchback and in this queue; one more name has been added recently. Yes, here we are talking about Nissan low cost brand’s Datsun first model, GO hatchback. Maruti Suzuki Alto is witnessing significant drop in sales chart thanks to stiff competition coming from Renault Kwid, so to boost the volumes, Maruti has launched rejuvenated version Alto 800. We are here to compare the segment leader Alto 800 with wanna be leader Datsun Go.
Price
Unlike other same segment models, the Alto 800 gives a real rub-shoulder fight to the GO by having affordable in-range price. While the new GO comes with price tags of Rs. 3.26 lakhs of base trim and 4.14 lakhs of top-end, the new Alto 800 costs between Rs.2.49-3.34 lakhs (petrol variants). The Alto 800 also has LPG trim which carries the price range of 3.70-3.76 lakhs. All the prices are of ex-showroom Delhi. The Alto petrol variant finish where Datsun entry level variant starts so Alto 800 wins here with both hands down.
Also See: Visit Our Datsun GO FAQ section containing all small-yet-useful info altogether for your convenience
Engine details
The modifications haven’t come in the mechanical powers as well, while Alto 800 is equipped with tiny petrol unit of 796cc, 0.8 liter 3-cylinders churning out the max power of just 47.3bhpand peak torque of 69Nm, the GO is bigger and better in terms of engine and power. Datsun powered the GO with an 1198cc, 1.2 liter 3-cylinder petrol unit good to develop the max power and peak torque of 67.07bhp and 104Nm which is far better than the Alto 800 at least on paper. The transmission type is same though; both get a 5-speed manual gearbox responsible to give the cars a balanced handling and drivability.
Here, best and noticeable thing is fuel efficiency of Maruti’s hatch is now capable to offer an impressive mileage of 24.7 km/l over the 20.6 km/l of new GO (the mileage figures are ARAI certified) as Maruti has bumped up the fuel efficiency by 9 percent.
Space & Dimension
Having seating capacity for five adults, both the cars offer a spacious cabin to its customers. Though Datsun GO is longer than Alto 800 and carries the length of 3785mm, width of 1635mm and height of 1485mm over the Alto 800’s length, width and height of 3395mm, 1490mm and 1475mm respectively.
The other difference is in their other measurements like wheelbase, car boot and clear height etc. The GO is better and spacious here in these all grounds by carrying 2450mm of wheelbase over 2360mm, clear height of 170mm over 160mm and amazing car boot of 265 liters over 177 liters.
Interior
Being entry level hatches, both have limited range of features such as basic audio system, manual air conditioning, power steering, central locking, power windows at front, USB and Aux-In portability etc are available in both the hatchbacks.
The Datsun has made GO li’l trendier by offering a mobile docket station in this hatch which will be really useful for its customers. Also, with some extra money, Datsun is offering few accessory packages as optional. These packs contain many required premium and comfort features as per their different categories. These includes rear & side Window Curtain, Body Graphics, Cushion Pillow Kit, Remote Locking Security System, Fog Lamp Kit Carpet Mat Alloy Wheel, Gear Knob Leather, Mood Light and many more. To know more, please visit:
http://carzoom.in/datsun-unveils-few-accessory-packages-for-the-new-datsun-go
Exterior
Even the outside glimpse of both the models is simple, starting from Alto 800 which now sports chrome free front grille, tweaked headlamps, side sills and revised tail lamps. Apart from this, it has similar design and layout to its predecessor. Datsun Go on the other hand looks a tall boy hatch with rear being its strongest point while puny tyres ruins the design. Despite it Datsun GO looks little more classy and cool.
Safety
Both the cars come with optional driver side airbag but sadly miss out on ABS, though gets basic safety aids such seat belt pre-tensioners, central locking etc.
Verdict
Datsun GO Pros
- Powerful engine with better output.
- Spacious than Alto 800.
- Huge boot space of 265 liters
Datsun GO Cons
- Comparatively expensive.
- Cost cutting inside
- NVH levels are poor
- Questionable after sales service as brand is new
Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Pros
- Cheaper than GO.
- More fuel efficient than GO.
- Highly appealed on-road performance.
- Maruti trustworthy ownership experience
Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 Cons
- Cramped rear space.
- More features could have been added
