Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

The 2025 Wagon R offers two petrol engines and a CNG variant to suit varied needs. The 1.0L 3-cylinder churns out 67 hp and 89 Nm, while the 1.2L 4-cylinder delivers a peppier 90 hp and 113 Nm. Both are available with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox, the latter easing city driving. 

The CNG option, based on the 1.0L engine, produces 57 hp but leads with 34.05 km/kg efficiency—ideal for skyrocketing fuel prices. Fuel economy for petrol variants ranges from 23.56 km/l (1.0L) to 25.19 km/l (1.2L), making every trip wallet-friendly. The 1.2L engine shines in urban traffic with enough grunt for quick overtakes, while the 1.0L suits leisurely drives. On highways, the 1.2L holds its own, but the 1.0L feels strained above 80 km/h. The AMT is smooth for stop-and-go scenarios, though it lags during rapid shifts. Performance is adequate for its audience—don’t expect thrills, just reliable commuting.

Ride and Handling

The Wagon R is a city slicker at heart. Its light steering and tight 4.7-meter turning radius make navigating crowded streets a breeze, perfect for squeezing through tight gaps or parking in urban chaos. 

The MacPherson strut front suspension absorbs small bumps well, but the soft setup and tall stance lead to a bouncy ride on uneven roads or at highway speeds. The 165 mm ground clearance clears speed breakers and minor obstacles without scraping, a boon for Indian roads. Sharp potholes can unsettle the cabin, and body roll creeps in during corners, so it’s not built for spirited driving. 

The AMT’s creep function is a lifesaver in traffic, though a manual mode would add versatility. For its price, the ride is comfortable enough for short trips, but long journeys expose its limitations compared to pricier hatchbacks.

Inside, the Wagon R is built for practicality over polish. The 2025 model upgrades to a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on VXI trims and above, backed by a 4-speaker audio setup that’s decent for commutes. The dual-tone black-and-beige cabin feels airy, but hard plastics dominate, reminding you of its budget roots. Its tall design delivers exceptional headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, making it surprisingly roomy for a sub-4-meter car.

 The 341-liter boot is a segment standout, easily swallowing grocery runs or weekend luggage. ZXI+ trims add a height-adjustable driver’s seat, steering-mounted controls, and keyless entry, but the absence of rear AC vents is a letdown in India’s heat. Practical touches like multiple cup holders, door pockets, and a front armrest (on higher trims) keep it user-friendly. Compared to pricier rivals, the cabin lacks refinement, but for daily errands, it’s hard to fault.

The 2025 Wagon R retains its signature tall-boy silhouette but gets a sharper look to stay relevant. A redesigned front grille with chrome accents pairs with slimmer LED headlights (standard on ZXI+), giving it a modern vibe. The updated bumper houses new fog lamps, adding a touch of flair. Measuring 3,655 mm long with a 2,435 mm wheelbase, it’s compact enough for tight parking yet spacious inside. 

Higher trims ride on 14-inch alloy wheels, while base models stick to steel rims with covers. Nine color options—Silky Silver, Magma Grey, Solid White, Gallant Red, Midnight Black, Nutmeg Brown, Poolside Blue, Passion Red, and Olive Green—offer variety, with dual-tone finishes on ZXI+ for a premium feel. Ground clearance of 165 mm handles urban obstacles well, but the boxy shape prioritizes function over sleekness, which may not appeal to style-conscious buyers. Subtle side cladding and roof rails on top trims enhance its rugged charm, though it’s no head-turner.

Safety gets a notable upgrade in 2025. Standard across all trims are six airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and hill-hold assist (on AMT models). Higher trims like ZXI+ throw in a rearview camera for easier parking. The HEARTECT platform boosts structural rigidity, but the Wagon R still lacks a current Global NCAP rating, which hurts its case against rivals like the Tata Tiago. 

Missing features like side airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), or tyre pressure monitoring put it behind segment leaders. Maruti’s focus on reliability is reassuring, but safety-conscious buyers may hesitate, especially with competitors offering more advanced tech at similar prices.

The Wagon R faces a tougher fight than ever. The Tata Tiago stands out with a 4-star GNCAP rating, sturdier build, and bolder design, appealing to those prioritizing safety and style. The Hyundai Grand i10 Nios brings a plush interior, smoother ride, and extra features like rear AC vents, though it’s pricier.

The Renault Kwid undercuts the Wagon R’s base price with a crossover-like look but feels less refined and lacks the same mileage. Maruti’s own Celerio competes closely, offering similar efficiency but a less spacious cabin. The Wagon R’s strengths—its CNG variant, superior fuel economy, and Maruti’s unmatched 3,000+ service network—keep it ahead for budget buyers, but it lags in safety and tech, forcing buyers to weigh cost against modern features.

The 2025 Maruti Suzuki Wagon R isn’t chasing trends—it’s doubling down on what it does best: delivering affordable, practical transport for India’s masses. Its frugal engines, especially the CNG option, keep running costs laughably low, while the spacious cabin and big boot make it a family-friendly workhorse. The addition of six airbags is a welcome nod to safety, and Maruti’s service network is a trump card no rival can match. Yet, with competitors like the Tata Tiago and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios offering better safety, tech, and refinement, the Wagon R’s appeal hinges on prioritizing savings over sophistication.