| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Steer clear. Small city car offering excellent fuel economy and durable build quality, but nothing else. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
 |
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| Best Models |
| None |
| Worst Models |
| All |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| The Alto is one of the most popular cars in the world. At least it is in India, where it is built and most are sold. In Europe, however, it feels seriously off-the-pace by modern standards. Tough India-proof construction and excellent reliability are the upsides, along with impressive fuel economy from the 1.0 litre engine. But in every other regard it lags massively behind such rivals as the Fiat Seicento and Daewoo Matiz, let alone the excellent Ford Ka. With a poor ride, zero handling prowess, cheap-feeling cabin materials and no modern crash protection, only the most dedicated minimalists will find themselves even vaguely tempted. |
| Positive Points |
- Discounts mean it's a cheap new car choice
- Five-door practicality, and not too cramped
- Cheap to run with good fuel economy
|
| Negative Points |
- Depreciates steadily and not a popular used car choice
- Sluggish and unrefined at higher speeds
- Other minis are nicer to drive
|
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