Introduction

If there is one car in our marketplace that holds the record for repeat purchases, it has to be the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R. This isn't based on any proper statistical data, of course, but because every Wagon R owner I have ever spoken to seem to have owned a Wagon R before, I think the assumption is pretty conclusive.

Now I am sure you are wondering if the Wagon R really is that great a car, and I must tell you, it isn't. It has had the crown of one of the worst driving hatchbacks in the country for the longest time. Vague steering, top heavy handling, and as much fun to drive as cleaning dishes, have been its highlights. This, of course, is truer for the older generation models. The newer ones, produced after 2010, are better, but are still far from good.

Now the newer ones are more spacious, have better steering and can actually go round a corner, but only just. These also get blue eyes; for whatever it is worth. But, the blue-eyed boys are expensive buys in the used car market; on an average these will set you back by an additional lakh and a half at least, spec for spec, compared to pre-2010 Wagon Rs. Clearly, if you have read this far, you have decided to get one (whichever one). So, here's what you need to know...

Why I'd buy it

Plainly because my mother thinks it is an amazing car. It has a light steering, it is easy to get in and out of, and there's enough headroom even for people with a basket strapped to their heads; her words, not mine. And, I agree, but not with the ‘amazing’ bit. Now, my mother might be many things: a great cook, the epitome of TLC, and a big movie buff and critic. But, a car expert she isn't. Sorry Ma, but it is true. So, I wouldn't take her word about merits of buying a used Wagon R too seriously. But, yes, if you too are a Wagon R fan, drive purely in the city and are used to tall ceilings, sure go ahead, buy a Wagon R. Just make sure you don't pay anything over a lakh and a half for the pre-2010 models and not a penny more than three lakh for the blue-eyed boy.

Why I'd avoid it

…because it is terrible to drive. As I mentioned earlier, the steering is light but terribly vague; it's easy to get into but once you start driving, it's easier still to get out; but mostly, it is as engaging as reading a self-help magazine; meaning, it is tedious and pointless. And, there's more. The engine is loud, slow and not very efficient. The gearshift quality is actually like stirring a spoon in goo. And the brakes and ride quality are just inexcusable.

My favourite version

As with most Maruti cars, it is best to settle for the top of the line version. In the Wagon R's case, it would be the VXI. It comes with power steering, all four power windows, electrically adjustable ORVMs and rear wash and wipe. But, I'd steer clear of the CNG versions and stick with the petrol-only option. I'd also avoid the special editions and examples that have run in excess of 30,000km.

Quick facts

Engine - 1.1 litre, petrol

Power - 64bhp

Torque -84Nm

Gearbox - 5-speed manual

Price - Rs 1.5 lakh – Rs 3.0 lakh

0-100kmph - 15 seconds

Top Speed - 150kmph