Maruti Suzuki recently introduced the new-generation Wagon R in India, thereby further strengthening its game in the small car segment in the country. Based on the Heartect platform, new Wagon R is roomier and offers more features over its predecessor. On the other hand, Tata’s competitively priced product, the Tiago has been a popular choice in the segment. The Wagon R is available in LXI, VXI and ZXI variants while the Tiago is available in seven variants - XB, XE, XM, XT, XTA, XZ and XZ Plus. Read below to find out more about the key differences between the two cars –
Exterior
The new Maruti Suzuki Wagon R has retained the tallboy profile but the fascia has received a comprehensive upgrade. The dual-split headlamps flanking new grille and simple front bumper makes it a Japanese-esque. The floating C-pillar is complemented with elongated taillights but the squared-off rear gives the new Wagon R a boxy stance.
Tata Tiago has been a charmer with its segment. Based on the XO platform, the Tiago has been designed with inputs coming from the Indian automaker's design centres in Coventry, UK; Turin, Italy and Pune, India. The hatchback features a signature honeycomb-grille with a chrome 'Humanity Line' that runs into the smoked headlamps, a new set of alloy wheels, and a completely new rear profile. The stance is more proportioned and is intended to appeal towards young buyers. The top-spec XZ Plus is available in two new colours - Canyon Orange and Ocean Blue – apart from getting a dual-tone paint scheme with a glossy black finish on the roof.
Interior
The interior of the new Maruti Suzuki Wagon R gets major upgrades over the older generation model. The dual-tone dash has a large infotainment screen atop the centre console flanked by vertical air-con vents. The new steering wheel has mounted controls and the instrument cluster has a big circular speedometer. The gear lever is mounted on the centre console. Feature-wise, the new Wagon R comes with adjustable steering, remote keyless entry, all four power window, electric ORVMs, rear defogger, passenger airbag, and SmartPlay studio infotainment system.
Tata Tiago features a dual-tone finish interior which looks complete with gloss black inserts. The three-spoke steering wheel design looks good and comes with audio and phone controls, while the centre console houses the infotainment system and HVAC unit. At the time of its launch in 2016, the vehicle was offered with interesting features and also gets a segment first Juke car app, in addition to turn-by-turn navigation. The top-spec XZ variant gets electric ORVMs with welcome function, automatic AC, full fabric seats, and knitted roof. Also part of the package is a seven-inch ConnectNext touchscreen infotainment system with Harman music system and Android Auto.
Engine
For the first time, the Wagon R is offered with a four-cylinder, 1.2-litre engine that generates 82bhp of power and 113Nm of torque. This is in additional to the existing three-cylinder, 1.0-litre engine that generates 67bhp of power and 90Nm of torque. Both engines are available with five-speed manual and AMT gearbox options.
Tata Tiago is available in petrol and diesel engine options. The 1.2-litre Revotron petrol engine produces 83bhp and 114Nm of torque, whereas the 1.05-litre Revotorq diesel engine churns out 67bhp of power and 140Nm of torque. Both motors come paired to a 5-speed manual transmission, while AMT is limited to the petrol version.