In 2002 I got my first car a Maruti Wagon R and all my friends said why this car. It looks are not good etc etc. Bu today after about 4 yrs I am proud of my decision. This car has given me no trouble (touch wood) till date, fuel efficiency has been great and space and interiors are also good.
The looks are not that great but the front look is not bad at all. The back side could have got better shape but I guess its been designed so for some purpose (engineering reason). The tall boy design gives good comfortable spacious interiors. The boot space is also great, in fact I have carried luggage which I was not expecting it could fit in this car.
The city driving is good, but you do tend to get a feel that you should decrease the speed a bit(if you are going fast) on some turns due to the tall boy design. The power steering is very good and the dash board and driver seat looks are not at all bad. In fact from inside you don;t feel its a small car.
I see the Maruti has added new features in its latest version of this car too. I can’t comment on those but overall if you are looking for a family car , given the indian conditions , fuel prices, maintenance I strongly recommend this car.