In a significant shift, Maruti Suzuki’s next-generation WagonR is expected to feature a full hybrid system in Japan, making it the first minicar with a full hybrid setup. This move could redefine the entry-level hybrid car market and pave the way for similar advancements in India, where the WagonR has long been a top choice among budget-conscious buyers.
The Hybrid System: What’s Under the Hood?
The Japanese-spec full hybrid WagonR is anticipated to be powered by an Inline 3-cylinder, 0.66-liter DOHC hybrid engine, producing 54 PS from the internal combustion engine (ICE) and 10 PS from the electric motor. The setup will deliver 58 Nm of torque from the ICE and 29.5 Nm from the electric motor. Paired with an electric continuously variable transmission (eCVT), this hybrid powertrain is designed for smooth urban driving with lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency.
Expected Fuel Efficiency
While official figures haven’t been announced, estimates suggest that the full hybrid WagonR could achieve fuel efficiency that surpasses 30 km/l. This would make it even more fuel-efficient than the current India-spec CNG variant, which already delivers an impressive 33.47 km/kg. For reference, the strong hybrid Grand Vitara currently offers 27.97 km/l, setting high expectations for the WagonR hybrid.
Dimensions and Design Changes
The new WagonR hybrid is expected to have a compact, efficient build ideal for city driving:
- Length: 3,395 mm
- Width: 1,475 mm
- Height: 1,650 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,460 mm
- Kerb Weight: 850 kg
A key design change may include a switch from traditional hinged doors to sliding doors—a feature gaining popularity in Japan for ease of access in tight spaces.
Potential Cost and Affordability
In Japan, the full hybrid WagonR is expected to start at 1.3 million yen (around ₹7.22 lakh), with top-spec models priced around 1.9 million yen (approximately ₹10.55 lakh). While this would be higher than the current WagonR’s starting price in India, the cost of a full hybrid version could remain accessible for budget-focused buyers.
What It Means for India
The WagonR’s full hybrid system might not make it to India in the exact form seen in Japan, but it reflects Maruti Suzuki’s push to introduce affordable hybrid technology across its lineup, including models like the Swift, Dzire, and Fronx. Maruti Suzuki is working on a 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine that could serve as a hybrid option for Indian models, including the WagonR, offering improved mileage and reducing running costs.
Conclusion
With the introduction of a full hybrid system in the WagonR, Maruti Suzuki is expanding the hybrid market to compact and entry-level cars, a move that could set new standards in fuel efficiency and low emissions for small vehicles. As consumers increasingly look for economical and eco-friendly options, a hybrid WagonR in India could provide a practical solution that aligns with both budget and sustainability.
The new-generation Maruti Suzuki WagonR is anticipated to bring advanced hybrid technology at a more affordable price point, making it one of the most exciting upcoming cars in the compact segment.
