Key highlights
- Maruti WagonR facelift spied testing
- Likely to get the 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine from Swift
- An underbody CNG tank can also be on the cards
Maruti is slowly updating its entire hatchback range in India with a new engine, i.e. the 1.2-litre Z12E three-cylinder naturally aspirated motor. This engine was first introduced on the new Swift, and it recently made its debut on the new Baleno facelift as well.
Now, a fully camouflaged test mule of the WagonR has been spied in Delhi NCR, indicating that this could be a new facelifted model. While the test car did not have any substantial changes to its design, the front fascia did look altered with a new bumper, new headlights, and a new grille.
The rear design had the same vertical taillights as seen on the current model. Interestingly, the test car had a CNG engine, as the front and rear windshields had CNG stickering.
The WagonR has been Maruti’s top-selling model for years. Its practicality, reliability, and spacious interior with high fuel economy are the prime reasons why buyers still choose it. Moreover, its CNG powertrain offers one of the highest fuel economy among the rivals, which makes it a suitable commuter.
However, it has been years since Maruti gave it an update, and the upcoming facelift could be the one. Maruti is known not to fiddle with the design and interior a lot on facelifted models, but we suspect that this new model could bring the 1.2-litre Z12E engine, which shall replace the current 1.2-litre K-series engine, which is a four-cylinder engine.
The primary reason behind this replacement will be the high fuel economy and lightweight construction of the Z12E, which allows for even more affordable maintenance over the years. Additionally, some online reports hint that the new WagonR could bring the underbody CNG tank like the new Brezza.
Although we are unsure about this claim, if the brand brings the underbody CNG to the WagonR, it will be a game-changer for the hatchback market. With that said, the 1.0-litre petrol and CNG engines are most likely to remain the same on the facelifted model.
Maruti is expected to introduce the updated WagonR facelift by the first quarter of 2027. The new engine could also help in reducing the price of the range-topping variants.
Also read: Kia Carnival Hybrid bookings open in India, launch expected soon
