Maruti’s tall boy Wagon R is all set to take on the mid size B segment competiton. Although not very popular as far as the box type looks are concerned, the recent design is indeed eye catching and attractive. Its a very roomy vehicle though only in height. One wonders what to do with all the space over one’s head. the rear side is cramped and can only accomodate 2 adults with max. one child. The dicky has generous space and if one happens to fold the rear seat even a bicycle can be accomodated.
The drive is extremely smooth compared to all cars in its category. To check this out I test drove the Alto, Zen, Indica, Santro and Palio. The engine is very peppy and the power steering quite light. the AC is powerful but with a noisy fan. On high speeds and curves over 60 kmph the cabin tends to sway like a pendulam. This is because the suspension is pretty soft. One gets an uneasy feeling on sharp curves at high speeds, which ofcourse is absent in the sedans.
All in all value for money. Negative aspects is a tight reverse gear shift. Inspite of complaining to Maruti in the first and second service the tightness still persists when the car is driven for over 50 km. It is not apparent in a cold state. Ideal for outstation drives, climbs ghats with ease and the engine is extremely silent. Hope it remains that way.