Maruti Wagon R vs Celerio: Best Practical Hatchback Under 6 Lakhs?

Top Reasons for Consideration

Maruti Suzuki Wagon R VXi

1. Spacious interior with tall-boy design

2. Large boot space (341 liters)

3. Fuel efficiency (24.35 kmpl ARAI-rated)

4. 60:40 split folding rear seats

5. Comfortable ingress/egress

6. Wide body for better rear seating

7. Excellent visibility

8. Maruti's extensive service network

9. Built on Suzuki's Heartect platform

10. Additional features (tilt steering, keyless entry, rear power windows)

Maruti Suzuki Celerio VXi

1. Superior fuel efficiency (25.24 kmpl ARAI-rated)

2. Modern, contemporary design

3. Compact dimensions for easy maneuverability

4. Lighter weight (810 kg)

5. Electric power steering

6. Comfortable seating with ample knee room

7. Air quality control

8. Higher claimed highway mileage (26 kmpl)

9. Stylish interior with winged dashboard

Pricing:

Wagon R VXi: Rs 599,500

Celerio VXi: Rs 583,500

Advantage: Celerio costs less by Rs 16,000

Engine Specifications:

Both models share identical specs:

- Engine capacity: 998cc

- Power output: 65.71bhp

- Torque: 89Nm

- Status: Equal performance

Efficiency & Fuel:

Fuel Economy:

- Wagon R: 24.35 kmpl

- Celerio: 25.24 kmpl

- Advantage: Celerio slightly more fuel-efficient

Fuel Tank:

- Both models: 32 liters

- Status: Equal capacity

Physical Dimensions:

Length:

- Wagon R: 3655 mm

- Celerio: 3695 mm

- Advantage: Celerio is 40mm longer

Width:

- Wagon R: 1620 mm

- Celerio: 1655 mm

- Advantage: Celerio is 35mm wider

Height:

- Wagon R: 1675 mm

- Celerio: 1555 mm

- Advantage: Wagon R is 120mm taller

Wheelbase:

- Both models: 2435 mm

- Status: Equal wheelbase

Additional Features:

Boot Space:

- Wagon R: 341 liters

- Celerio: 313 liters

- Advantage: Wagon R offers 28L more cargo space

Weight:

- Wagon R: 825 kg

- Celerio: 810 kg

- Advantage: Celerio is 15kg lighter

Other Features:

- Both have 14-inch wheels

- Both are 5-seaters

Qualitative Comparison

Exterior Design

The Wagon R maintains its signature tall-boy design with recent modern touches, while the Celerio sports a more contemporary and rounded shape with youthful aesthetics.

Interior and Comfort

The Wagon R offers a functional and spacious interior with excellent headroom, while the Celerio provides a more stylish interior with a winged dashboard design. Both offer good visibility, but the Wagon R's higher seating position might be preferred by some.

Driving Experience

Both cars share the same engine and offer easy drivability in city conditions. The Wagon R's taller stance might result in more body roll, while the Celerio's lighter weight could contribute to more nimble handling.

Practicality

The Wagon R excels in practicality with its spacious interior, larger boot, and easier ingress/egress. The Celerio offers a good balance of comfort and practicality with slightly less space.

Feature Comparison

Common Features

- ABS with EBD

- Dual front airbags

- Manual air conditioning and heater

- Power windows (front and rear)

- 60:40 split folding rear seats

- Luggage hook and net

- Cup holders in front

Wagon R VXi Advantages

- Keyless entry

- Tilt steering

- Body-colored door handles, bumpers, and ORVMs

Celerio VXi Advantages

- Air quality control

Recommendation

For a first-time buyer in the Rs 5.5-7.5 lakh range, the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R VXi slightly edges out as the recommended choice, particularly for those prioritizing space and practicality. Here's why:

1. Superior interior space

2. Larger boot (341 liters vs 313 liters)

3. Additional features like keyless entry and tilt steering

4. Easy ingress/egress due to tall-boy design

5. Wide body for comfortable rear seating

However, if fuel efficiency is your top priority and you prefer a more modern design, the Celerio VXi is worth considering. Its slightly lower price point (Rs 16,000 less), better fuel economy, and more contemporary styling make it an excellent choice for urban commuters