The sixth-generation Suzuki WagonR has been revealed in Japan. The new WagonR is expected to arrive here as well but the Japanese-spec will differ from the one we will receive here in India in terms of features and design.
The first major update is the powertrain. Suzuki has introduced the WagonR and its Stingray sibling only in hybrid powertrain. The WagonR will be available in three variants – FA, FX and FZ whereas the Stingray comes in T, X and L trims. All variants are available in 2WD and 4WD options. Powering the Japanese-spec WagonR is a 658cc three-cylinder petrol engine with 51bhp and 60Nm. The engine is in sync with a 2.3kW ISG motor and a lithium ion battery. Transmission responsibility is handled by a CVT automatic. The mild hybrid can achieve a fuel economy of 33.4kmpl claims the Japanese manufacturer.
The new WagonR is shorter in length compared to the current generation car by around 300m and is a tad shorter as well. Wheelbase grows by 60mm whereas the ground clearance is reduced by 15mm. The overall design of the new WagonR is more radical and flashy compared to the subtle appearance of the current generation. The design seems to be taking inspiration from the Toyota Alphard especially the fascia with its two-level headlamps and the floating B-Pillar. The whole car appears boxy and the rear taillights are positioned way below at the bumpers. There are eight colours to choose from on the base model and extends up to 10 on the top-end ZX trim. The Indian spec is likely to get identical exterior to the Japanese Wagon R.
The Japanese-spec WagonR comes loaded with features which are found in many premium cars. The new WagonR gets a heads-up display popping out of the newly design dashboard. The dashboard has a centre stacked instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen and dashboard mounted gear lever (The stingray gets paddle shifters as well). The aircon vents are in a horizontal strip on the dashboard. The "omni-directional” screen incorporates a memory navigation system and camera feed from four all-around cameras. The dual-tone dash and upholstery are available in beige and black, whereas the Stingray gets an all-black treatment. The windscreen and window glasses are UV and IR protected. The tailgate is switch operated and there is a special umbrella holder on the rear passenger door. Other features include automatic brake assist, high beam assist function, ABS with EBD and front and curtain airbags come as standard. We don’t expect all of these features to make it in the Indian-spec and even the cabin will be highly revised according to Indian requirements.
When the new WagonR arrives in India next year, the car will be heavily toned down to suit the Indian market. It will continue with the 1.0-litre engine as the current car and provide the features currently provided across the other variants. Given the demand, Maruti Suzuki could also provide CNG option in India. The prices of the new WagonR is expected to remain on par with the current pricing.