1988 Maruti Omni Dimensions, Size & Specs

The width of the Maruti Omni ranges between 1395 mm and 1410 mm (around 54.9 to 55.5 inches). This width is relatively narrow compared to modern minivans, which helps the vehicle easily fit through tight spaces and narrow lanes common in Indian cities and crowded markets. However, the compact width can slightly limit shoulder room inside the cabin, making it cozier for passengers but still accommodating up to seven people in its flexible seating layout. From a road stability perspective, the Omni's modest width provides sufficient stability for city speeds but may feel less planted at higher speeds compared to wider vehicles.

The Maruti Omni stands at a height of 1640 mm (about 64.6 inches). This relatively tall height for a small minivan ensures excellent headroom for passengers, enhancing comfort even for taller individuals. The taller silhouette also aids in giving the vehicle a commanding presence on the road despite its compact length and width. The high roofline is a key factor in the Omni's ability to carry more people and cargo efficiently, turning it into a versatile people mover and light cargo carrier ideal for various commercial and personal uses.

The Maruti Omni's curb weight ranges from 715 kg to 740 kg (approximately 1575 to 1631 lbs), which is quite light for a minivan. The lightweight nature of the vehicle contributes positively to its fuel efficiency, an essential factor for budget-conscious owners. This reduced weight allows the Omni to perform adequately with its small engine, delivering decent acceleration and drivability for city commuting and light load carrying. The lighter weight also simplifies handling and reduces wear on tires and brakes, helping maintain lower running costs.

The Maruti Omni has a maximum weight rating of 1215 kg (about 2679 lbs). Considering its curb weight of roughly 715 to 740 kg, this means it can carry a payload of approximately 475 to 500 kg (1047 to 1102 lbs). This capacity makes the Omni suitable for transporting passengers with luggage or carrying light commercial goods, distinguishing it as a versatile vehicle for families and small businesses. The ability to handle such payload efficiently without compromising stability is thanks to its robust chassis and suspension design tailored for Indian road conditions.

The Maruti Omni is equipped with 13-inch rims, paired with tire dimensions of 155/80 R13. These moderately sized tires support a comfortable ride by cushioning uneven road surfaces while maintaining manageable handling characteristics. The tire profile (80) is relatively tall, which also contributes to absorbing shocks from potholes and rough patches, enhancing passenger comfort. Additionally, the 13-inch rims are economical and easy to replace, contributing further to the vehicle’s low maintenance costs, a big plus for budget-sensitive users.

Yes, the Maruti Omni can comfortably fit inside most standard residential garages worldwide. Typical garage dimensions are at least 2.4 meters (8 feet) wide and 5.5 meters (18 feet) deep, while the Omni measures between 3.28 to 3.37 meters (about 10.8 to 11 feet) in length and has a width of around 1.4 meters (4.6 feet). Its compact footprint allows it ample room inside garages, leaving space for storage or maneuvering around the vehicle. This makes it a practical choice for owners with limited parking space or urban dwellers requiring convenient vehicle storage.

The Maruti Omni essentially launched in 1988 as an original model inspired by the Suzuki Carry van platform, without a direct predecessor in Maruti's lineup. Compared to the earlier light commercial vehicles available in India, the Omni was smaller and more compact, emphasizing maneuverability and efficiency. Its dimensions—length between 3280 to 3370 mm and width about 1395 to 1410 mm—offered improved usability for narrow city roads and tighter parking areas. The design was innovative for its time in combining van versatility with a compact footprint, filling a niche that prior larger and bulkier vans could not serve as effectively.

Compared to similar small vans and minivans available from the late 1980s to mid-2000s, such as the Tata Winger or older versions of the Suzuki Carry, the Maruti Omni stood out for being particularly compact. While most competitors were longer and wider, making parking and city maneuvering more challenging, the Omni’s shorter length (3280-3370 mm) and narrow width (1395-1410 mm) contributed to exceptional urban practicality. Functionally, it offered flexible seating arrangements and cargo space that matched or exceeded rivals despite its smaller footprint. Its lightweight construction and simple design further enhanced its appeal by delivering low operating costs.

The Maruti Omni is designed primarily as a minivan capable of seating up to 7 passengers, configured with bench seats and a climb-in rear entry. Despite its compact exterior dimensions—length around 3.3 meters and width approximately 1.4 meters—the boxy shape optimizes interior volume, allowing reasonable headroom and legroom for occupants. Its 1640 mm height enhances vertical space for tall passengers. However, due to the narrow width, shoulder room is limited, and the seating can feel snug, especially with a full passenger load. Still, its practical interior layout and large windows contribute to a sense of spaciousness, making it a versatile people carrier for its class and era.