Maruti Suzuki Wagon R vs Tata Bolt

The way things are being planned, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R Flex-fuel (FF) is set to become India's first mass-segment flex-fuel car. It's one of the answers to the never-ending quest for alternative fuels for cars. The Wagon R FF is designed to run on any ethanol-petrol blend and will eventually help reduce tailpipe emissions. It also goes without saying it will comply with the upcoming and more stringent BS6 phase-II emission norms. The prototype exhibited at Maruti's pavilion at the 2023 Auto Expo looked exactly the same as the standard Wagon R on sale in India, save for the fluorescent badging. We believe the 'Flex-Fuel' branding on the side will be mellowed down in the production avatar. However, the bright green embellishments may be retained to display its green, environment-friendly avatar.

There are few better ways to unwind at the end of the day at work than by getting behind the wheel of our Tata Bolt. Thanks to its supple ride, hushed cabin and brilliant air-conditioning, the Bolt has made my commutes within the city a lot easier, especially in the scorching midsummers. Having used it for the best part of 8,000km and four months since its arrival in our long-term fleet, I can vouch for this car’s calming effects.

It’s a mid-cycle refresh for the current generation of the Maruti Wagon R, which has been around since 2019. Here's how it's like to drive.