After seeing lot of blogs/scoops in the net, I was waiting for the new wagon R for a long time . Finally, I got it delivered in July 2010 (Lxi) and now, I have clocked around 5000 kms and 2 free services.
Let me just try to bring out some facts at this moment.
Looks: Though Wagon R is one of the most liked car in India for a long time, I heard lot of people badly commenting on the "Boxy" shape. This car was not a big success in the initial years but gradually it conquered the market due to it’s day to day practicality .
The boxy shape actually is a workaround done by designers to obtain maximum internal space in a small hatch. If you have a doubt, just Put 2 executive chairs back to back and watch from side . it resembles a Wagon R!.But do not forget the fact that there are smart designs like "Santros" worked around similar concepts.
But suzuki engineers have managed to overcome the impression with different generations through some cosmetic surgeries. The new grill with a chrome element, new headlamps with blue eye, brushed looking roof rails and the rear chrome plate , looks are refreshed. Though it’s in the class of small hatch, with the height ( Near to an Innova ! ) it will be noticed in the crowd.
Getting into the car: With bigger doors and high seating position, getting in and out is very easy even for elderly people . This is a very good point where you have to "Crowl" into the back seats even in some of the sedans around !.
There is ample leg space and head room both in front and back. Due to the flat floor, even the rear middle seat passenger can seat decently. And Even Lxi model have adjustable headrests in rear seat. Due to high roof, the heat will not reach that fast even when you park under sun.
In the new model, the boot have been cut short to give more space for rear seats. But still, it’s decent. By taking away the parcel tray and fixing speakers on hatch door, you will get ample space if required.
Seats are very supportive and I didn’t have any backpains even after long drives.
Drive:this is one of the most interesting areas of this car.I think this this is one of the most maneuverable cars in Indian roads. Electronic power steering is quick and responsive. You can fearlessly take it through the narrowest roads. U turns as well as full reverse require very small space . Gear shifts are smooth.
The 1L K series engine is decent and have good power. But with AC on and 5 People on board, you will feel lack of power, but manageable. Even with the height, body roll is well under control . But, you have to be bit careful when the roads are too bumpy . Ground clearance is good but problem is, the car will swing abnormally, which may be uncomfortable for the people on board. But don’t worrry, it’s there only when the terrain is the worst .
Road visibility is good but the front pillars will hide the vision especially on right turns. But you can overcome this to an extent by pulling forward the driver seat . But I have observed the same problem with some of the new generation cars and muvs.
Riding comfort: This car has low NVH values and cabin is well insulated. but the K series roars sometimes creeps in when you rev up.My Mother-in law told me that she didn’t feel any fatigue even after we travelled 300 Kms in a single stretch sometime back. Basically speaking, it gives decent ride in average road conditions.
Fuel consumption:Generally K series are designed for better mileage and power. watever be the technology, lesser cubic capacity and lesser number of cylinders means more mileage. That’s the thumb rule. here they have managed to churn out 67 BHP with 3 cyl and 998 cc. Combined with a lesser bodyweight. Definitely this should give more mileage theoretically. But does it give in real ?. It’s an interesting story...
With the number of people on board, there is considerable difference in mileage. We got around 19 Kmpl once we had a trip to Trivandrum with AC on 70 % of time with wife and baby on board. If there are 5 people on board, it’s giving 15-16 and while driving alone without Ac, I am getting around 20 .
My old Zen was giving me 15-16 irrespective of the payload almost consistently. But, these are some of the inevitable tricks every automobile manufacturer is forced to adhere in order to sustain in the competitive market now a days. And again, these type of cars are driven with only front seats engaged most of the time. finally, What I wanted to say ? Yes ! this car gives good mileage !
Overall speaking, if you are looking for a small hatch with good space , comfort, decent mileage , good handling and low maintenance, Here is the "Blue eyed boy" .This is one of the best choices around...