The has been one of Maruti Suzuki’s most successful models in its portfolio. It has been on the market here since 1999, and in 2025, it surpassed the 35 lakh production milestone. Currently in third-generation guise, the hatchback offers a choice of 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre engines, with a CNG kit available on the former. Both mills can be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT gearbox. If you’re keen on buying a Wagon R, we list out reasons to consider getting one and reasons to look elsewhere.
Reasons to buy
Spacious and practical cabin
A benefit of the Wagon R’s tall-boy design is that it maximises vertical space, making the cabin roomier. The wide cabin lends decent shoulder space between those seated at the front. Meanwhile, the back seat can comfortably accommodate three passengers abreast with plenty of shoulder room, headroom and legroom. Additionally, the cabin gets a large glovebox and sizeable door pockets, while the long and wide 341-litre boot holds decent amounts of luggage.
Peppy and fuel-efficient engine (1.2-litre)
Opting for the top-end ZXi versions of the Wagon R gets you a more powerful 1.2-litre petrol engine. Producing 90hp and 113Nm of torque, it brings great performance combined with the Wagon R’s light footprint. This 1.2-litre unit makes the car feel light on its feet, responds quickly to inputs and has plenty of mid-range punch. The engine is rev-friendly, and you get stronger performance as you go up the power band. Overall fuel efficiency isn’t compromised much, with Maruti claiming 23.56kpl with the manual and 24.43kpl when paired with the AMT gearbox.
AMT gearbox smoothness
While AMT’s may not be the smoothest gearboxes, in the Wagon R’s case, the typical ‘head nod’ effect is largely between the first and second gears. Things do smoothen out when shifting into higher gears. Moreover, it also gets a tiptronic mode that lets you shift gears manually via the lever, and it’s quite responsive. Additionally, it comes in handy not just for taking charge, but also to maximise engine braking while on a descent.
Reasons not to buy
Lacklustre highway manners
While the Wagon R works best as a city car, the same can’t be said when on the highway. At high speeds, the Wagon R doesn’t readily take to steering changes. Secondly, it’s vulnerable to body roll at high speeds due to its lighter weight and bluff shape, while the light steering does not inspire much confidence on the highway. This definitely isn’t a car for enthusiast drivers.
Poor NVH levels
The engines on the Wagon R get noisy when you visit the top end of the power band. Furthermore, a fair amount of road and suspension noise makes its way into the cabin because of its light build. Overall, the Wagon R lacks good sound insulation.