Maruti Wagon R VXI with ABS

After the success of Maruti 800 and Alto, Wagon R is now the latest brainchild of Maruti Suzuki. The hatchback is well designed and has comfortable interiors. This is the facelifted model of the older Wagon R and has been brought out rather well. It was launched in April 2010. Wagon R has several different variants but the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R VXI with ABS is one the best of them. This hatchback has taken the design, technology and features of Wagon R to a whole new level. The exterior is really eye catching and interiors have been modelled impressively. The car is priced modestly at 4.48 lakhs and it has been developed with the “tall boy” design in mind.

Exteriors

Wagon R has been completely re-engineered with a modern look and a new eye catching shape. It looks more stylish and curvier than before. Although the body shape is typical, overall many appealing features have been added to compensate for it. The new look suits the Wagon R better than its predecessors. The car has been modelled in a rounded off shape rather than the old boxy look and this really adds to the attractiveness of the new Wagon R. The company has tagged this car as ‘The Blue Eyed boy’ as it features a trendy blue touch to the large headlamps. An all new chassis has been added to the Wagon R giving it a wide look, one that is better proportioned than the old version. The grille added to the car is very sleek with a chrome strip on top and the Maruti Suzuki emblem at the centre. The tail lights have been elongated and looks better at the rear which is otherwise typical. The front headlights can be adjusted according to the needs and have a tinge of blue colour. The hood of the car is curved on the sides adding to the curviness of the car. The hatchback has a length of 3595mm with a width of 1495mm and a height of 1700mm. The wheelbase of the car is 2400mm with a ground clearance of 165mm.

Interiors

The interiors have been modelled to provide utmost comfort to the driver and passengers. The added safety features aid in a comfortable and safe ride. The interiors have been designed on a dual tone theme. This dual tone combination with aluminium touches all around adds to the beauty of the interiors. The Blue Eyed Boy is quiet roomy and spacious. For a royal and supreme touch, the chrome accentuated instrument panel with silver finished door handles has been implemented with class.  The roof lining has been moulded impressively and gives the interiors a stylish and attractive look. The seats have been designed ergonomically and gear knobs have been added on strategic places to add to the style quotient of the car. Interior features include luggage parcel tray, air conditioner with heater, adjustable steering column, tachometer, glove compartment, digital odometer, CD player, power steering, power windows, central locking, etc.

Engine and performance

The all new Maruti Wagon R VXI runs on a 12 valve petrol engine (Bharat Stage IV compliant) which comes with an engine displacement of 998cc. The 3 cylinder engine produces 67bhp at 6200 rpm and a peak torque of 90Nm at 3500 rpm. The same engine is also used in Maruti A-Star. The engine is endowed with a 5-speed manual transmission, DOHC with offset crankshaft that delivers improved power and fuel efficiency. The engine provides a mileage of 14 kmpl in city roads and 18.6 kmpl on the highway. The power and torque generated by the car can readily accelerate it from 0-100 kmph in 15.6 seconds and it has a top speed of 146 kmph. The car has been specifically designed for city roads and gives best performance between 0-60 kmph. It works well at higher speeds too, but fuel consumption increases a bit. The hatchback supports a 35-litre fuel tank which can last approximately 535 km.

Braking and handling

The brake mechanism of the car includes disc brakes in the front while drum brakes have been placed in the rear. It is further enhanced by the ABS (Anti Lock Braking System). The ABS technology avoids skidding of the car in case of abrupt braking. In case of unexpected surprises on the road, the car comes with an 8-inch booster brake assist which is very efficient. The suspension system in the car utilises the McPherson strut in the front while an isolated trailing link is used at the rear. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) improves the handling of the car. The car has turning radius of 4.6 meters.

Safety features

Maruti Suzuki has not only paid attention to the looks of the car but to the safety of its passengers too. The car is equipped with both active and passive safety features. The body structure has been made through a rigid case technology which improves the impact handling of the car. The frontal impact absorbing area has also been increased. Also there is greater distance between the steering wheel and front bumper which keeps the passengers safe. The VXI ABS model is equipped with the front and rear fog lamps, rear wiper and washer, rear defogger, dual horn, airbag and ABS.

Comfort features

There are various comfort features that make the Wagon R a comfortable and pleasurable ride. The steering wheel can be adjusted as per the drivers needs. Electronically adjustable wing mirrors are an added bonus for the driver. Power windows for both the front and rear seats make it easier for the passengers. The car is loaded with comfort features such as a remote trunk and lid opener, push type cup holders on both the left and right side of the seat, front passenger under seat tray, driver side storage space, front passenger seat back pocket, etc.

Pros 

Overall interior has been well designed for tall boys and is quiet spacious. The added safety features make for a comfortable and pleasant ride.

Cons 

The ride has many pros but is slow to start. The pickup is not too good. Also, the turning radius of the car is comparatively small.