As we approach its launch date of January 23, 2019, Maruti Suzuki has opened bookings for the new-gen Wagon R. Buyers can now reserve the hatchback at authorised Maruti Suzuki dealerships or on the carmaker’s website by paying Rs 11,000.

The upcoming Wagon R is based on Suzuki’s Heartect platform that also underpins the Swift, Ignis, Baleno and Ertiga. The lightweight platform has helped the Wagon R become 50-65kg lighter than its predecessor. This is quite a feat, given that the new Wagon R is larger than the old model in every aspect. The wheelbase is 35mm longer and width has been increased by 125mm to aid interior space.

As reported earlier, the new Wagon R also borrows the 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, which makes 83hp and 113Nm of torque, from the Swift and Ignis. Also part of the line-up is the proven 68hp, 1.0-litre petrol motor that did duty in the outgoing car. Both engines get the option of either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox.

In terms of features, all variants will be equipped with a driver-side airbag, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors as standard. Top-spec variants will see the addition of a passenger side airbag, ORVMs with electric adjust and retract function, and a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The new Wagon R will be offered in seven variants – three with the 1.0-litre engine and four with the 1.2-litre engine. The hatchback will be retailed from Maruti Suzuki’s Arena chain of dealerships and is expected to be priced around Rs 4.5-5.5 lakh. Key rivals include the Hyundai Santro, the Tata Tiago and Datsun’s Go.