Maruti Suzuki will likely showcase the WagonR 7-seater MPV at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo. Since launching in December 1999, the Maruti Suzuki WagonR has gone on to become one of the Indian carmaker's bestselling offerings. The car was and still is known to be one of the most spacious small hatchbacks in the country. Its tall-boy design and relatively high vantage point makes it a breeze to drive in traffic and park in tight spots.
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Rumour has it that a new avatar of the WagonR is in the making. A 7-seater MPV variant of the WagonR, codenamed YJC (previously YCA), is likely to make its way to the upcoming Delhi Auto Expo set to be held in February. The sub-compact MPV first broke cover at the 2013 Indonesia International Motor Show. The MPV variant is 101mm longer than the current hatchback which should see its total length reaching 3.7m. The wheelbase and wheels are likely to remain the same as the standard WagonR. The car is expected to slot into Maruti Suzuki's range between the Eeco van and Ertiga MPV and is likely to compete against the Datsun Go+.
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Maruti has already imported 2 units of the WagonR MPV to India to test, develop and calibrate for Indian conditions. The car is likely to arrive with both petrol and diesel engine options. The petrol variant may be powered by the Maruti Suzuki Swift's 1.2-litre K-Series unit whereas the diesel could feature a 1.3-litre DDiS unit. New reports suggest that Maruti Suzuki may offer the WagonR MPV in India with even smaller engine capacities. The engines could include the Maruti Suzuki Celerio's 1.0-litre K-Series petrol and 0.8-litres DDiS125 diesel units. LPG and CNG versions may be launched at a later date. Transmission options should include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 5-speed AMT box.
The exact date as to when Maruti Suzuki will roll-out the WagonR MPV on Indian roads is as yet uncertain although a mid-2016 launch is expected. The car is likely to cost between Rs 70,000 - Rs 1 lakh more than the standard hatchback. Besides showcasing the WagonR MPV at the Auto Expo, the company may also unveil the Vitara S and Vitara Brezza, Ignis, and Alto diesel.
