Next-Gen Suzuki WagonR To Be A Strong Hybrid: Fresh Render Reveals Key Details
Suzuki first introduced the Wagon R in 1993, as a tallboy hatchback for families. In the Indian market, the model has had massive sales success and popularity. There are people who prefer to own a brand-new Wagon R even today, just for its VFM quotient and seating. The latest news has it that Suzuki is working on developing a full-hybrid version of the WagonR for international markets, which could also make it to India in the future. The hybrid is reportedly being readied for a 2025 global launch.
The Indian market doesn’t often differentiate between the tall hatch and tall wagon. Internationally however, the distinction is clear, and the Wagon R dominates the high-roof Wagon segment in Japan.
Maruti WagonR Hybrid: Expectations
The hybrid version of Wagon R is expected to host major visual upgrades. It will also have a better, more equipped cabin, as per sources. It will likely be powered by a 666cc 3-cylinder hybrid petrol engine mated to an electric motor. The petrol engine is expected to produce 53 bhp and peak torque of 58 Nm and the motor will deliver another 10 bhp and 29.5 Nm. The powertrain will come mated to an eCVT gearbox.
We are not sure if this would be a series hybrid though. Maruti Suzuki is known to be developing a series hybrid technology that’s expected to make its India debut through the new Fronx. However, bringing it to an affordable car as the Wagon R could be tricky. It could thus likely be a strong hybrid form like the Grand Vitara that’s coming. In this case, it will become the first small car to feature this system.
In the Japanese market, the hybrid WagonR will measure 3,395mm in length, 1,475mm in width and 1,650mm in height. It will have a wheelbase of 2,460mm and the kerb weight will be 850 kilos. We have always had the Wagon R with hinged doors. However, the next generation is reported to come with sliding rear doors.
Hybridizing a powertrain usually adds a chunk to the vehicle’s price. Hybrids are generally expensive and it is common for us to expect a reasonable price premium for the hybrid WagonR as well. However, the hybrid is expected to start at 1.3 million yen in Japan- roughly translating to 7.22 lakh Indian rupees.
The India-spec Wagon R is currently priced in the range of 6.17 – 8.21 lakh, ex-showroom. This means that the expected price of the hybrid could roughly be equal to that of the mid-spec. Of course, these are speculative and would change upon actual market debut.
Quick Look At The Current WagonR
Maruti Suzuki India Ltd (MSIL) currently sells the third generation hatchback here. The WagonR first made its India entry in 1999, six years after its global debut. It has since been a steady seller. It is in fact, one of India’s best-selling cars for the last 25 years. The hatchback is loved for the roominess of its cabin and decent equipment levels. It is not kitted to perfection, but offers ample for the segment it belongs to. Plus, you are seated ‘high and steady’ inside and it is easy to get in and out as well. These add to the overall VFM proposition and appeal.
The third generation WagonR that’s currently on sale, is powered by the familiar 1.0L K-Series petrol engine and even offers the choice of an efficient CNG powertrain as well.