A drastic drop in demand for small cars in the last 5-6 years has prompted an OEM like Maruti Suzuki, which is traditionally known for its affordable small cars, to look at a slightly premium segment of passenger vehicles. However, last month, parent company Suzuki assured that small cars will remain a strong area of focus for Maruti in India in the future.
In Suzuki’s mid-term management plan revaled in February 2025, the company said that it is working on an entry-level car that will be available in different powertrains including a mild-hybrid, CNG, and flex-fuel options. Now, there are new reports of Suzuki developing a strong hybrid powertrain for the new generation Wagon R.
According to a recent report in a Japanese news portal, Suzuki is working on a new-gen WagonR which is expected to make its global debut by mid-2025. The current-gen WagonR has been on sale in India since 2019, and the new WagonR will get some serious upgrades over its predecessor. These include functional as well as cosmetic updates.
New-gen Maruti WagonR: Expected styling updates
New-gen WagonR will receive a new design featuring a sliding rear door, something very common in contemporary Japanese tallboy hatchbacks. This design guarantees convenient access for passengers while also simplifying the loading of various luggage and cargo. The seats will be highly adaptable, enabling owners to customize them according to their preferences.
In terms of dimensions, the new-gen WagonR will measure 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,650 mm tall. The hatchback will offer a wheelbase of 2,460 mm while it will tip the weighing scales at approximately 850 kg, same as the current model. That said, the India-spec model could possibly be larger than the Japan-spec WagonR which is a certified Kei car. Meanwhile, the outgoing model measures 3655 mm in length, 1620 mm in width, and 1675 mm in height, along with a wheelbase of 2435 mm.
New-gen Maruti WagonR: Powertrain specs
The Japan-spec new-gen WagonR will benefit from Suzuki’s advanced hybrid system that will integrate the drive motor currently used in the Solio with AGS (Auto Gear Shift). This setup is paired with a 660cc, inline-three, DOHC petrol engine, which produces 54 PS and 58 Nm of torque. The electric motor adds an extra 10 PS and 29 Nm, operating through an electric continuously variable transmission.
However, it is unlikely that this powertrain will be carried over to the India-spec model. Powering the India-spec new-gen Maruti WagonR will be a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine that full-hybrid system. Details of this powertrain are still under wraps. Moreover, it is unlikely that Maruti will introduce its strong hybrid setup with the WagonR.
Maruti’s strategy for introducing hybrid technology in its smaller cars will largely be influenced by government policies. Currently, EVs receive greater incentives compared to hybrids. For instance, the GST rate for EVs is just 5%. Additionally, several states offer full or partial exemptions on road and registration taxes for EVs. Fully electric vehicles also qualify for subsidies under the FAME-II scheme.
