Maruti to discontinue its 800cc engine after 40 years

Maruti is unlikely to update the engine to comply with the new regulations.

The upcoming emission norms will spell the end for Maruti Suzuki’s 800cc engine. The F8D unit is expected to be discontinued next year.

Maruti’s 800cc engine has been around since 1983. It was offered on the iconic Maruti 800, Omni and the Alto. The F8B spec unit developed 38 BHP and 59 Nm. It was updated to the F8D spec in the year 2000. The upgrades resulted in an overall increase in power output to 47 BHP and 69 Nm.

The F8D spec engine featured 4-valves per cylinder and came with fuel injection. This enabled the engine to pass the more stringent BS6 emission regulations that came into force in 2020.

The Real Driving Emission (RDE) norms will be rolled out next year. Maruti is unlikely to update the engine to comply with the new regulations. The company doesn’t see a valid business case to retain this engine, which is only offered in the Alto. Given the low demand for its entry-level hatchback, it would make sense to phase it out completely.

Source: Autocar India