2019 Maruti Suzuki WagonR: What to look out for

Here's a low-down on what to expect from the new Maruti Suzuki WagonR, due to launch soon...

Now that Maruti Suzuki has officially announced the launch of the new WagonR, we take a look at the key highlights of the new iteration which will set it apart from its predecessor. 

Built on a new platform

The new WagonR will be based on the company's acclaimed Heartect platform, which already underpins the new Baleno, Swift, Dzire and Ignis. Further, the lighter and stiffer platform will also make the new WagonR much lighter and, therefore, more efficient (the new Swift weighs 85kg less than the old model, thanks to the Heartect platform!). Another giveaway by Maruti Suzuki comes in the form of their tagline for the new car: Big New WagonR. This clears the air on the fact that the new model will be wider and longer than its predecessor and will also offer greater wheelbase. This means the cabin space will be appreciable.

New engine choices

For the first time, the WagonR will get multiple engine options with the 2019 model. We suspect the base variant to be offered exclusively with a 1.0-litre K10B three-cylinder petrol motor which will generate close to 67bhp and 90Nm of torque. The higher variant (ZXi, most probably) is likely to be offered exclusively with Maruti Suzuki's 1.2-litre K12M four-cylinder petrol motor which will generate a greater power output of around 82bhp and 113Nm of torque. What's more, the middle (VXi) variant is most likely to be offered with both engine options and keeping in line with the tradition of the previous few launches, the new WagonR will also get an AMT option in the VXi and ZXi variants.

Interior upgrades

As per the spy shots of the new WagonR's interior, which have surfaced online recently, expect the car to have an all-new dashboard layout and design with a much-awaited touchscreen infotainment system. However, the unit is likely to be lifted directly from one of the brand's existing models. Further interior upgrades that could make their way into the 2019 model include steering-mounted audio controls, dual-tone interiors and a new instrument binnacle with a larger Multi-Function Display (MFD). The infotainment system could also get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. However, we are yet to see how much of this equipment trickles down to the lower variants.

Exterior changes - different yet same

While the new model possesses bigger dimensions, it is still likely to retain the boxy design language of its predecessor albeit with changes in crucial styling elements. Despite continuing with a similar silhouette, the 2019 version of the WagonR will get some modern touches in the form of floating roof design, vertically-stacked semi-LED taillamps and a bolder front, thanks to a chunky chrome strip on the grille. The headlight and overall bumper design too will undergo changes.

Safety features

Owing to the upcoming safety norms and regulations for passenger vehicles, the new WagonR will come with safety features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors. The good news here will be that these features will be offered as standard fitment across all variants, with the exception of the front passenger airbag, which is expected to be optional on the base variant.