The Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is due for a full model change, with a replacement expected to hit Maruti Arena showrooms in 2019. We've just got our hands on a fresh set of images that are understood to be of the final production version of the next-gen Wagon R. Not to be confused with the Wagon R-based electric hatchback that is being tested in India, the model pictured is the standard combustion engine version of the made-for-India car. It will be offered with petrol and CNG engine options.
While different in look to the Wagon R for international markets, the model for India continues with its slab-sided tall-boy look. Maruti seems to have worked on the design to make it more rounded at the edges and give the version for India a more upmarket look.
Up front, the headlights look to be larger than the outgoing model's while also being rounder; even the bonnet is curvier than the flat-faced current-gen car's. At the sides, the large glasshouse remains true to Wagon R DNA while the wing-mirrors are also more in-line with the overall look. Maruti Suzuki has also added floating-roof styling just like the one found on the Ertiga, which does help the look. Subtle creases to the front and rear fenders and the doors make the overall styling more appealing.
Moving to the back, the Wagon R now gets pillar-mounted tail-lamps that actually look a tad large and similar to the ones seen on the earlier-gen Honda CR-V. The rear styling looks much better now and the vertical tail-lamps give the car more of a crossover-like look.
The new Wagon R is likely to continue to be based on the outgoing model's platform, which will be tweaked to clear the latest crash test norms. The current 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine will continue too, and will be tuned for better refinement. Also likely to be offered right from launch are a CNG option as well along with an AMT automatic option. Maruti is likely to add the SmartPlay touchscreen infotainment system as well, at least on the top variants of the new Wagon R.
Expect the new tall-boy hatchback to reach showrooms in the first quarter of 2019.
Also see:
Maruti Suzuki Wagon R EV launch in April 2020