Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: Kitna Deti Hai? Price, Features, Mileage

Are you in the market for a compact hatchback that offers great value for money? The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R might just be the perfect car for you.

With its spacious interior, fuel-efficient engine, and affordable price tag, this popular hatchback has been winning hearts across India. But how does it stack up against competitors like the Tata Punch and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Wagon R a top choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: An Overview

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R has been a familiar sight on Indian roads for over two decades. Known for its tall-boy design and practicality, this hatchback has evolved significantly over the years. The latest generation Wagon R builds on its strengths while addressing some of the shortcomings of its predecessors.

Available in both petrol and CNG variants, the Wagon R offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Its boxy shape may not win any beauty contests, but it’s this very design that gives the Wagon R its impressive interior space and versatility.

With prices starting from Rs. 5.54 lakh and going up to Rs. 7.33 lakh (ex-showroom), the Wagon R positions itself as an affordable yet feature-packed option in the compact hatchback segment. But what exactly do you get for your money? Let’s break it down.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R offers two petrol engine options: a 1.0-liter unit and a more powerful 1.2-liter engine. The 1.0-liter engine produces 67 PS of power and 89 Nm of torque, while the 1.2-liter variant bumps those numbers up to 90 PS and 113 Nm respectively.

Both engines come paired with a 5-speed manual transmission as standard, with the option of a 5-speed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) for those who prefer a clutch-free driving experience. The AMT variants also come with a hill-hold assist feature, making it easier to start on inclines.

In terms of performance, the Wagon R feels peppy and responsive in city traffic. The 1.2-liter engine, in particular, offers brisk acceleration and makes highway overtakes a breeze. However, at higher speeds, the car’s tall stance can make it feel a bit unstable, especially in crosswinds.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the biggest selling points of the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is its impressive fuel efficiency. The 1.0-liter petrol engine delivers a claimed mileage of 24.35 kmpl with the manual transmission and 25.19 kmpl with the AMT. The 1.2-liter engine isn’t far behind, offering 23.56 kmpl and 24.43 kmpl for manual and AMT variants respectively.

For those looking to save even more on fuel costs, the CNG variant of the Wagon R claims an impressive mileage of 34.05 km/kg. However, it’s worth noting that the CNG variant is only available with the 1.0-liter engine and manual transmission.

These figures make the Wagon R one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment, potentially saving you thousands of rupees in fuel costs over the years.

Interior and Space

Step inside the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R, and you’ll immediately notice its spacious cabin. The tall-boy design translates to excellent headroom, while the long wheelbase provides ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Even tall adults can sit comfortably in the back, which is quite impressive for a car in this segment.

The dashboard layout is simple and functional, with all controls within easy reach of the driver. Higher variants come equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, adding a touch of modernity to the otherwise straightforward interior.

One of the standout features of the Wagon R is its boot space. With 341 liters of cargo capacity, it offers more luggage room than some compact SUVs. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more space, making the Wagon R surprisingly versatile for a small hatchback.

Features and Equipment

While the base variants of the Wagon R are fairly basic, the higher trims come well-equipped with features that add convenience and comfort to your daily drive. Some of the key features available on the top-end variants include:

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity
• Steering-mounted audio controls
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs
• Keyless entry
• Day/night interior rearview mirror
• Rear washer and wiper
• 60:40 split rear seats
• Front fog lamps
• 14-inch alloy wheels

It’s worth noting that even the base variants come with essential features like power steering, air conditioning, and front power windows, ensuring a comfortable driving experience across the range.

Safety Features

Safety has been a point of concern for many potential Wagon R buyers, especially given its 1-star Global NCAP rating. However, Maruti Suzuki has made efforts to improve the car’s safety credentials in recent years. All variants of the Wagon R now come standard with:

• Dual front airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Rear parking sensors
• Speed alert system
• Driver and co-driver seat belt reminders

While these features are welcome additions, it’s important to note that the Wagon R’s body structure has been deemed unstable in crash tests. This is an area where competitors like the Tata Punch, with its 5-star Global NCAP rating, have a clear advantage.

Pricing and Variants

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is available in a range of variants to suit different budgets and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the ex-showroom prices:

For most buyers, the VXi 1.2L or ZXi 1.2L variants offer the best balance of features and value. The AMT variants are worth considering if you frequently drive in heavy traffic.

Competitors

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R faces stiff competition in the compact hatchback segment. Its main rivals include:

• Tata Punch: Offers better build quality and safety features but at a higher price point.
• Hyundai Grand i10 Nios: Provides a more premium feel and features but is less spacious.
• Maruti Suzuki Celerio: A sibling rivalry offering similar features in a different package.
• Tata Tiago: Another strong contender with good build quality and features.

While each of these competitors has its strengths, the Wagon R continues to hold its own thanks to its combination of space, fuel efficiency, and Maruti Suzuki’s extensive service network.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)

Q1. What is the mileage of Maruti Suzuki Wagon R?

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R offers a claimed mileage of 23.56 to 25.19 kmpl for petrol variants and 34.05 km/kg for the CNG variant.

Q2. Is Wagon R good for long drives?

While the Wagon R is primarily designed for city use, it can handle long drives comfortably. However, its high-speed stability might not be as good as some of its competitors.

Q3. What is the ground clearance of Maruti Wagon R?

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R has a ground clearance of 165mm, which is adequate for most Indian road conditions.

Q4. Is Wagon R AMT worth buying?

If you frequently drive in heavy traffic, the Wagon R AMT can be a good choice. It offers the convenience of an automatic with the fuel efficiency close to that of a manual transmission.

Q5. What is the boot space of Maruti Wagon R?

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R offers a generous boot space of 341 liters, which is more than some compact SUVs in the market.

Wrapping Up

The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R continues to be a popular choice in the Indian market, and for good reason. It offers a spacious interior, fuel-efficient engines, and the reliability of the Maruti Suzuki brand, all at an affordable price point. While it may not excel in areas like high-speed stability or crash safety, it remains a practical and economical choice for city dwellers and small families. If you’re in the market for a compact hatchback that offers great value for money, the Wagon R is definitely worth considering.

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