Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

It has been 1.5 yrs after buying our Waggy. First of all I would like to say that WagonR is a typical budget friendly car with a lot of comfort, a high mileage and low maintenance cost.

For the first 1000 kms, I didn’t strain the engine, and kept varying the speed continuously(for a better break-in) and didn’t cross 110 km/hr. Mostly stayed within 100 km/hr. Initially we got a mileage of 16 kpl. But now, we are getting 21-22 kpl on long drives without A/c(90 - 120 km/hr), and 17-18 with 40% A/c(withing 90 km/hr). And, when driving aggressively(continuous overtakes with bursts of max acceleration and braking), it gives around 18 kpl. The mileage isn’t dependent on speed for ECU controlled engines. At high speeds also, u’ll get good mileage because its the ECU’s job to ensure the most efficient combustion at all engine speeds. Above 40 km/hr, if u maintain a light foot on the accel, use minimum braking and clutching, u’ll get good mileage at all speeds.

As far as stability is concerned, I found it quite stable even at 120 km/hr but high speed turns do have some body roll but is not scary. The engine feels comfortable within 100 km/hr but after that I feel the engine is getting strained.

Now, the performance:

Without A/c:

Below 2000 rpm, it feels sluggish, but after 2000 rpm, the acceleration is punchy enough for aggressive overtakes.

With A/c:

Below 2500 rpm, it feels very sluggish, and after 2500 rpm, the acceleration increases but is not enough for tight and aggressive overtakes. For tight overtakes, I switch off the A/c and again switch it on after the overtake. Come on, you can’t get mileage and power at the same time.

The car is very comfortable with two people at the back, but if we take 3 people at the back, it will be slightly uncomfortable and acceleration will also reduce at little. The headroom and legroom play a huge role in keeping the occupants comfortable. The shocks are good for low speeds.

The engine doesn’t heat up at all on long drives. But, very low speed driving will heat it up to some extent.

The A/c is OK. Neither very good(like swift), nor very bad. Engine sound is quite good from 2000 - 3500 rpm.

The services were very good and hassle free.

Overall, I really love my Waggy and I am very satisfied.

Summary:

Pros:

1. Mileage

2. Comfort

3. Low Maintenance

4. Easy ingress and egress

5. Ground clearance

6. Good interiors

Cons:

1. Low on power with A/c on

2. Small wheels