The Maruti Suzuki WagonR has been one of India’s most loved hatchbacks for over two decades. Known for its tall-boy design, spacious interiors, and high fuel efficiency, the WagonR continues to dominate the small car market. Its affordability, reliability, and practicality make it a popular choice among families, first-time car buyers, and city commuters. The latest generation of WagonR has received upgrades in design, features, and safety, ensuring it remains relevant in today’s competitive market.
Key Highlights: Maruti Suzuki WagonR Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 1.0L K10B Petrol / 1.2L K12C Petrol with Smart Hybrid |
| Power & Torque | 66 bhp (1.0L) / 88 bhp (1.2L), torque up to 113 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / AMT |
| Fuel Efficiency | Petrol: ~24 kmpl |
| Dimensions | Length: 3655 mm |
| Boot Space | ~341 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Safety | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP (in AMT trims), Hill Hold Assist, Rear Parking Sensors |
| Features | 7-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, steering-mounted controls |
| Price Range | Competitive pricing across petrol and CNG trims |
Design and Style
The WagonR’s tall-boy design remains its signature identity. The upright stance and large glass area provide excellent visibility for drivers and make it easy to maneuver in tight city traffic. The latest version gets a refreshed front grille, sharper headlamps, and a more aerodynamic profile.
The interiors have been redesigned for practicality. Despite compact dimensions, the WagonR offers class-leading headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The dual-tone dashboard, along with a 7-inch infotainment screen, adds a modern touch.
Engine and Performance
The WagonR offers two petrol engine options:
- 1.0L K10B Petrol – Delivers 66 bhp, ideal for daily city commutes and mileage-conscious buyers.
- 1.2L K12C Petrol – Produces 88 bhp, offering a stronger performance for highway drives and loaded conditions.
Both engines are refined, smooth, and fuel-efficient. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT (automatic manual transmission), which makes driving in traffic effortless.
For cost-conscious buyers, the CNG option is a big advantage, delivering an impressive efficiency of around 34 km/kg, making the WagonR one of the most economical cars to own.
Features and Safety
In terms of features, the WagonR comes equipped with SmartPlay Studio infotainment system, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims include steering-mounted controls, rear defogger, and power-adjustable ORVMs.
On the safety front, Maruti has upgraded the WagonR with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program (in AMT models), Hill Hold Assist, and rear parking sensors. These features make the car safer for city and highway use, aligning with new safety norms.
Ride Quality and Comfort
The WagonR’s suspension is tuned to handle Indian road conditions comfortably. Its light steering and compact turning radius make it one of the easiest cars to drive in urban areas.
Rear seat comfort is enhanced by upright seating and good visibility, though very tall passengers may find thigh support a bit limited. The 341-litre boot space is generous for a hatchback of this size, easily accommodating weekend luggage or grocery hauls.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths
- Excellent fuel efficiency with petrol and CNG options
- Spacious cabin with practical tall-boy design
- Affordable maintenance and Maruti’s wide service network
- Multiple engine and gearbox options for different needs
- High resale value in the used car market
Limitations
- Basic feature list compared to some modern rivals
- Rear seat under-thigh support could be better
- Exterior design remains functional rather than stylish
- Highway performance is modest in the smaller 1.0L engine
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki WagonR continues to be the go-to hatchback for Indian families who want practicality, low running costs, and reliability. With its spacious interiors, multiple engine options, and strong mileage figures, it remains one of the most value-packed cars in its segment.
