Maruti Suzuki Wagon R : The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R has been a staple on Indian roads for over two decades. Known for its boxy “tall boy” design, it has consistently delivered on its promise of being a practical, spacious, and fuel-efficient city car. The latest generation has modernized the formula, making it a reliable and affordable choice for families and daily commuters.
Design: Form Follows Function
The Wagon R’s design is unapologetically functional. Its tall, upright stance maximizes interior space and offers excellent headroom, making it easy for occupants to get in and out of the car. While the design is simple, it’s also modern, with a new grille, split headlamps, and a slightly more contemporary look than its predecessors. The car’s compact footprint makes it a breeze to navigate through congested city traffic and to park in tight spaces.
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A Surprisingly Spacious and Practical Cabin
The interior is where the Wagon R truly shines. Thanks to its tall-boy design, the cabin feels incredibly airy and spacious, with ample headroom for all passengers, even for taller individuals. The seats are positioned high, providing a commanding view of the road, and the large glass area enhances the feeling of space. The Wagon R also boasts one of the largest boot spaces in its segment, with 341 litres of capacity, making it a practical choice for luggage and groceries.
Performance: The King of Fuel Efficiency
The Wagon R is powered by two petrol engine options: a 1.0-litre and a more powerful 1.2-litre unit. Both engines are known for their refinement and, more importantly, their excellent fuel efficiency. The 1.0-litre petrol manual offers an ARAI-claimed mileage of 24.35 kmpl, and this figure gets even better with the AMT automatic option, which delivers 25.19 kmpl. For maximum savings, the factory-fitted CNG variant offers an impressive mileage of up to 34.05 km/kg. The engines are smooth and perfectly suited for city driving, and the optional AMT makes navigating stop-and-go traffic effortless.
Safety: A Need for Improvement
In recent years, safety has become a key concern for buyers, and the Wagon R’s performance in this area has been a subject of discussion. The car received a 1-star safety rating from Global NCAP for adult occupant protection and a 0-star rating for child occupant protection. While it comes equipped with essential safety features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, the crash test results indicate that there is room for significant improvement in structural safety.
The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R remains a strong contender in the budget hatchback segment. It is a no-nonsense car that prioritizes space, practicality, and low running costs above all else, making it a popular choice for millions of Indian families.