Indian Autos Blog reader, Kiran, snapped this image
of a JDM-spec Wagon R testing in India. This is not the successor for the Wagon
R sold in India though, this vehicle is likely testing components for a part
supplier.
For the Indian market, Maruti has started trial runs
of the next-generation 2019 Wagon R which it reportedly aims to launch in
November this year. Codenamed 'YCA', the 2019 Wagon R will be different in
design and specification from the sixth generation model which was launched in
Japan in February last year.
To start with, the 2019 Maruti Wagon R for the
Indian, and associated emerging markets, will not be based on the HEARTECT
platform which underpins modern-day Maruti vehicles. Instead, Maruti to
re-engineers the existing Wagon R's platform for future crash test norms (new
norms for offset frontal and lateral impact came into force from October 2017
and new pedestrian protection safety norm will come into effect from October 1,
2018) hence keeping costs in check.
The 2019 Wagon R is reported to get the 1.0-liter
K-Series three-cylinder petrol engine, which develops 68 PS (59 PS with CNG)
and 90 Nm of torque (77 Nm on CNG) on the present model. This engine will be
updated for BS6 emission norms, and will also offer a CNG variant. The next-gen
Wagon R will continue to offer 5-speed MT and AMT options, though a 'Stingray'
variant is unlikely to make an appearance.
The 2019 Wagon R is reported to have its market
introduction in Diwali this year. A 3-row 7-seat variant of the Wagon R is also
on the anvil, to be positioned under the Maruti Ertiga.
