Earlier this year, Maruti Suzuki introduced the refreshed Alto along with a BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) badge. The hatchback became the second product (first was the Baleno) in the company’s portfolio to comply with the stricter emission norms. A few months later, the car’s range expanded with the launch of two CNG-powered variants. Maruti Suzuki has now launched yet another derivative. Dubbed as the VXI+, it wears a price tag of Rs 3.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Compared to the VXI trim, the new option costs approximately Rs 13,000 more. So, is it worth spending that extra amount? In the VXI+ trim, the only add-on the Alto gets over the VXI is a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It is the same unit that also does duty in the WagonR. That means you also get smartphone integration compatibility using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The rest of the kit remains identical to the VXI trim. The list includes keyless entry, central locking, an accessory socket, Bluetooth connectivity, internally-adjustable ORVM, two speakers and a rear parcel tray. On the safety front, the car comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, speed alert system, rear parking sensors, seatbelt reminder for front occupants, headlight levelling and back door child lock.

The option of a factory-fitted CNG kit is limited to just LXI and LXI (O) trim levels. That means the 0.8-litre, 3-cylinder engine in the Alto VXI+ gets its kick from petrol and puts out 47bhp/69Nm. The only transmission option available is a 5-speed manual. With a claimed mileage of 22.05kmpl, the Alto is one of the most frugal petrol-powered cars in the mass-market space. In India, it rivals the likes of the 0.8-litre versions of the Datsun Redi-Go and the Renault Kwid. Both of Alto’s main competitors have yet to receive upgraded powertrains to comply with BS6 emission standards.