With advances in hybrid technology, it may now be possible to offer a full hybrid setup even with entry-level cars like the WagonR.

Maruti WagonR continues to be among the preferred options since its launch in India in 1999. Maruti WagonR, currently in its 3rd generation, uses a 1.0-litre K-series engine. CNG option Also available with WagonR.

New generation WagonR full hybrid

Latest reports suggest that the next-generation WagonR in Japan may be equipped with a full hybrid setup. If this turns out to be true, WagonR may emerge as the first mini car with a full hybrid system. In Japan, the full hybrid WagonR is expected to feature an Inline 3 DOHC, 0.66-liter hybrid engine. The IYM engine will produce 54 PS power, while the electric motor will contribute 10 PS. Torque output will be 58 Nm and 29.5 Nm respectively. The hybrid powertrain will feature an electric continuously variable transmission (eCVT).

Dimensionally, the full hybrid WagonR in Japan will be 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,650 mm high. It will have a wheelbase of 2,460 mm and a curb weight of 850 kg. In Japan, the next generation WagonR is expected to switch from hinged doors to sliding doors.

High mileage expectations

Although the full hybrid setup has relatively fewer emissions, users will be more interested in the monetary gains that the new generation WagonR can offer. This becomes even more important as the full hybrid WagonR will have a relatively higher purchase cost. Similar to CNG, the full hybrid WagonR can reduce operating costs by offering superior mileage. Although official figures have not been announced, it is possible to get an idea by looking at the fuel efficiency of the Grand Vitara powerful hybrid.

Someone popular compact SUVsGrand Vitara powerful hybrid offers the best fuel efficiency in its segment with 27.97 km/l. This is already better than the current WagonR’s 25.19 km/l (AGS). Assuming the full hybrid WagonR is designed for high fuel efficiency, the mileage can easily exceed 30 km/l. Fuel efficiency could be even higher than the current CNG version of the WagonR, which delivers an impressive top speed of 33.47 km/kg.

WagorR full hybrid – Pricing

Full hybrids are generally more expensive than their gasoline counterparts. And with an affordable car like the WagonR starting at just Rs 5.55 lakh, it might seem that the full hybrid version will be significantly more expensive. However, reports suggest that the pricing of the full hybrid WagonR will be quite affordable. In Japan, the full hybrid WagonR is expected to be available with a starting price of 1.3 million yen. This is approximately Rs 7.22 lakh.

It’s more expensive than the current model, of course, but not by that much considering it has a full hybrid setup. The top-end versions of the WagonR full hybrid can be priced around 1.9 million yen (approximately Rs 10.55 lakh). The top-spec variant of the India-spec WagonR (ZXI+ AGS) is available at a starting price of Rs 7.21 lakh. CNG variants are available in the price range of Rs 6.45 lakh to Rs 6.90 lakh.

Speaking of India launch, Maruti has already started working Affordable hybrid system for smaller cars. These will likely come with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine. WagonR, Swift, Dzire, Fronx etc. It is likely to power cars such as

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