Automobile Desk – Maruti Suzuki WagonR, which has been ruling the hearts of customers in the Indian automobile market for years, can soon be seen roaming on the roads in a new and modern avatar. In recent times, the updated version of this popular hatchback has been spotted several times testing on Indian roads. Ever since these glimpses were revealed, the discussions regarding its facelift model have become very intense in the auto sector. The company is working on a strategy to make its best-selling family car much better than before in terms of design, engine and practicality.
WagonR will retain its identity i.e. the signature tall-by boxy look, but its exterior will see many fresh cosmetic changes. Talking about the front profile, it may include a newly designed grille, sharp headlamp setup and reprofiled bumper. Slight changes in the rear profile of the car are also expected along with new tail lamps and a new bumper. To give a fresh look to the side profile, the company can offer the option of new wheel covers or new alloy wheels. The overall look will look more attractive and modern than before, although there will be no major changes in the basic structure of the vehicle.
Apart from the design, the biggest change can be seen in the engine and powertrain of the car. If reports are to be believed, Maruti Suzuki can introduce its latest 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z12E petrol engine in this new WagonR. This is the same new and refined engine which is giving excellent mileage and performance in the company's new generation vehicles like Swift and Dezire. However, the situation is not entirely clear on whether the existing 1.0-litre engine will be retained in the lineup or not. For transmission, it is almost certain that it will get 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox options.
The most relieving news for family car buyers may be related to its CNG variant. The biggest problem in current CNG cars is the lack of space in the boot space, because the cylinder occupies more than half the space. But in the new WagonR CNG, the company is going to solve this problem for sure. It is believed that the CNG tank can be fitted under the car instead of the boot. If this technology is implemented, customers buying the CNG model will also get full boot space for luggage, which can prove to be a big gamechanger in this segment.
As soon as you step inside the cabin, you will feel the new age technologies. The company can make slight changes in its dashboard layout and use new fabric upholstery to give a fresh look to the interior. The features list could include a larger touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, automatic climate control and steering mounted controls. Keeping safety in mind, safety features like Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors and multiple airbags can be provided as standard.
However, Maruti Suzuki has not yet revealed the official launch date or price of this facelift model. But the speed at which its testing is going on clearly indicates that this new model can hit the Indian market by the end of this year or early next year.
