Maruti Suzuki WagonR Hybrid: A New-Era Fuel-Efficient Hatchback

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR has been a popular choice in India for its spacious design, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Now, Suzuki is set to launch a new-generation WagonR with a hybrid engine, offering better mileage and upgraded features.

Engine & Features

The upcoming WagonR hybrid will come with a 660cc, 3-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor and an Auto Gear Shift (AGS) transmission. This setup, taken from Suzuki’s Solio, will produce 64 PS power and 87 Nm torque, making it an eco-friendly and efficient option.

In terms of design, the new model will introduce sliding rear doors instead of traditional ones, improving accessibility and storage space. The seats will also be adjustable for greater flexibility.

The Japan-spec WagonR will have the following dimensions:
📌 Length: 3,395 mm
📌 Width: 1,475 mm
📌 Height: 1,650 mm
📌 Wheelbase: 2,460 mm
📌 Weight: 850 kg

The hybrid WagonR’s base model is expected to cost around ₹7.65 lakh, while the top variant could go up to ₹11.19 lakh.

Safety & Technology

The new WagonR is likely to feature:
✅ Automatic emergency braking
✅ Lane departure warning
✅ Adaptive cruise control
✅ Touchscreen infotainment system
✅ Digital instrument cluster

Will India Get the Hybrid WagonR?

Maruti Suzuki is working on a more affordable hybrid system for its small cars in India, including the WagonR, Swift, Dzire, and Fronx. It may use a 1.2L, 3-cylinder petrol engine and could integrate Toyota’s hybrid technology, though Maruti might develop its own to keep costs lower.

However, hybrid adoption in India faces tax challenges. While EVs enjoy just 5% GST and tax benefits, hybrids face 28% GST plus additional cess, increasing the total tax to around 43%. Only a few states, like Uttar Pradesh, provide tax exemptions for hybrids.

For Maruti to introduce hybrid technology in smaller cars, government support and policy changes will be crucial.