ಮಾರುತಿ ವೇಗನ್ ಆರ್‌ 2013-2022 KREST

MSIL has launched the limited edition of its popular hatchback model series, Wagon R in order to further bolster its sales. It is named as Maruti Wagon R KREST, which is a package available for petrol, CNG and LPG modles as well. It is introduced with some new features that not only adds to its style, but also helps in improving the comfort levels. These aspects include keyless central locking, reverse parking sensors, elegant seat covers, steering wheel cover, carpet floor mats and a 2-DIN audio system along with Bluetooth connectivity. It also has other aspects like an attractive front radiator grille, stylish wheel covers, durable mud flaps and Limited Edition body graphics as well, which will further enhance its outer appearance. It has a roomy cabin that looks elegant in a dual tone color scheme. It is incorporated with ergonomically designed seats, while there are a few other utility based aspects available inside as well. This variant is available with standard protective features like a collapsible steering column, driver seat belt warning lamp, child safety locks and a high mount stop lamp as well. In terms of technical specifications, it has a 1.0-litre petrol engine that is mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box. It delivers a maximum mileage of 20.5 Kmpl and attains a top speed of around 148 Kmph, which is rather good. This is placed against the likes of Ford Figo, Hyundai Grand i10 and a few other vehicles in this segment.

Exteriors:

Its outer appearance is decent with a boxy body design along with a number of styling features. Starting with the front facade, it has a trendy looking headlight cluster that is integrated with halogen headlamps and turn indicators as well. It surrounds the bold radiator grille that is decorated with a chrome strip. It is also neatly embossed with an insignia of the company in its center. The wide bumper is painted in body color and fitted with an airdam that cools the engine in no time. Then, there is a sleek bonnet that has a few visible character lines on it. The windscreen is made of tinted glass and equipped with a couple of wipers. Coming to the side profile, it has black colored door handles and outside rear view mirrors with amber colored side turn indicators. Its wheel arches are fitted with a set of 13 inch steel wheels that have stylish wheel covers. These are further covered with radial tubeless tyres of size 145/80 R13 that provide a strong grip on roads. Meanwhile, it sides are designed with attractive body graphics which further gives it a stylish appearance. Its rear end is designed attractively with a few aspects like crystal effect tail lamps, large windshield with a high mount stop lamp and a body colored bumper. It also has a chrome garnished boot lid with company's badge and a roof mounted antenna that completes the look of its rear profile.

Interiors:

This Maruti Wagon R KREST variant is blessed with a roomy internal cabin that is decorated with a two tone beige and black color scheme. This hatch with a tallest cabin in its class, accommodates five people and provides them with ample head space. The ergonomically designed seats are covered with a dual tone plush fabric upholstery in 3D effect. The equipments on dashboard include a center console with a music system, instrument cluster and a steering wheel. It also include air vents and a glove box compartment. The door trim with fabric inserts and silver accentuated instrument panel as well as door handles further give an appealing look to its interiors. Other aspects like sun visor with driver's side ticket holder, three cabin lamps, luggage parcel tray and floor carpet are also available in the cabin.

Engine and Performance:

The automaker has equipped it with an all aluminum lightweight K10B petrol engine. It is also available with a CNG as well as an LPG kit. This 1.0-litre mill has three cylinders, 12 valves and has the ability to displace 998cc. It is integrated with a multipoint fuel injection system and coupled with a five speed manual transmission gear box. The maximum power generated by this motor is 67.06bhp at 6200rpm and yields a peak torque output of 90Nm at 3500rpm. As claimed by the company, it can return a maximum mileage of 20.5 Kmpl, when driven on bigger roads. While the fuel economy comes to 26.6 km/kg and 14.6 km/l under CNG and LPG modes respectively.

Braking and Handling:

This vehicle has its front wheels fitted with a set of ventilated disc brakes and the rear ones are equipped with sturdy drum brakes. In terms of suspension, its front axle is assembled with a McPherson strut and an isolated trailing link is used for the rear one. These are also loaded with coil springs, which boosts this mechanism. Its handling is made easier with the help of an electronic power assisted steering wheel that supports a turning radius of 4.6 meters.

Comfort Features:

This variant has many comfort features that will help in giving a pleasurable driving experience to its passengers. It has 60:40 split folding rear seat that can make space for more luggage inside. The instrument panel features a double trip meter, digital fuel indicator, speedometer with amber illumination besides displaying driver seat belt warning and a few other notifications. The occupants can charge their mobile phones with the help of a 12V accessory socket. For in-car entertainment, it is blessed with a 2-DIN audio system that supports Bluetooth connectivity. Apart from these, it has reverse parking sensors, day and night inside rear view mirror, adjustable front and rear seat headrests, front power windows, three foldable assist grips, remote fuel lid and tail gate opener, front door map pockets, air conditioning unit with heater and rotary AC controls and driver side storage space as well.

Safety Features:

The list of safety aspects in this Maruti Wagon R KREST trim includes energy absorbing body structure with side impact protection beams, three point ELR seat belts, unique high mount stop lamp, child proof rear door locks, driver seat belt warning lamp, central locking system and intelligent computerized anti-theft system (I-CATS) that enhances the safety standards.

Pros:

1. Affordable initial cost of ownership.

2. Addition of music system with Bluetooth is an advantage.

Cons:

1. Its boxy body design can be made better.

2. There is still some scope to add more features.