ಮಾರುತಿ ವ್ಯಾಗನ್ ಆರ್‌ Stingray VXI Optional

Wagon R Stingray VXI Optional ವಿಮರ್ಶೆ

Maruti Wagon R Stingray VXI Optional is one of the mid range trims of this hatchback series. Besides increasing its lineup with two new variants, this company has also equipped this one with dual front airbags as well as ABS. One of the noticeable things about this hatch is its decent yet stylish exteriors. It includes aspects like sleek and expressive projector headlights, gunmetal grey colored alloy wheels, trendy rear spoiler and a few others. Many elements inside are chrome accentuated, while the cabin on the whole, looks quite attractive in an all black color scheme. Coming to the features list, it has a steering wheel with audio controls, multi information display, power windows and an AC unit to name a few. Whats present under its hood is a 1.0-litre, all-aluminum petrol mill that delivers a good performance and returns a class leading mileage. Thus considering the features, styling and technicalities, this one would be certainly a perfect choice for first time car buyers.

Exteriors:

In the front fascia, there is a reflector based radiator grille with sleek and expressive projector headlights surrounding them. The prominent company's logo is embossed on this grille, which enhances the overall appeal. The bumper is painted in body color and incorporated with an air dam as well as radiant round shaped fog lamps. Meanwhile, the large windscreen is fitted with a couple of intermittent wipers that have two speed setting. On the sides, it has body colored door handles and outside rear view mirrors of which, the latter also includes side turn indicators. The wheel arches are molded pretty well and fitted with 14 inch gunmetal Grey colored alloy wheels. These further have radial tyres of size 155/65 R14. Also, there are black B-pillars and sporty side skirts that completes its sporty profile. To describe its rear end, its simple in design. It is equipped with chrome garnished tail lamps, boot lid with “Stingray” badging and a chrome finished strip. Apart from these, it also has a spoiler, windshield along with a high mount stop lamp.

Interiors:

Its internal section looks pretty good with many sporty elements. Its design has been borrowed from its sibling Wagon R including the dashboard, seating and other utilities. The entire cabin gets a premium black color scheme. The firm has incorporated it with ergonomically designed seats that come with 3D effect based upholstery in Stingray theme. The accentuation of chrome on door handles, AC vents and audio knob further gives a premium feel to its passengers. In the cockpit, it has a leather wrapped steering wheel, which is mounted with audio controls. The dashboard also houses a glove box compartment and a blue themed instrument cluster. The floor console has a cup holder, while there are fabric inserts on door trims. Other elements present inside are luggage parcel tray, front and rear cabin lamps, assist grips, as well as day and night inside rear view mirror.

Engine and Performance:

A 1.0-litre, K10B all-aluminum petrol engine powers this vehicle. This lightweight motor has three cylinders, 12 valves and comes with a displacement capacity of 998cc. It has the ability to belt out 67.04bhp maximum power at 6200rpm, while yielding torque output of 90Nm at 3500rpm. This mill is coupled with a five speed manual transmission gearbox and is compliant with the Bharat Stage IV emission norms. As claimed by the manufacturer, it can return a peak mileage of about 20.51 Kmpl on the expressways, which is rather good in comparison with other models in this segment. Its top speed ranges between 120 to 130 Kmph, whereas it consumes nearly 15 to 16 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 Kmph.

Braking and Handling:

The front wheels are fitted with ventilated disc brakes, while rear ones have high performance drum brakes. This mechanism is further assisted by anti lock braking system that minimizes the risk of skidding. On the other hand, its front axle is equipped with a McPherson strut, whereas the rear one gets an isolated trailing link. Both these axles are also incorporated with coil springs that makes the drive free from jerks. This mechanism contributes for better agility, stability and improves the driving dynamics for better handling. Moreover, the electronic power assisted steering aids in easy maneuverability.

Comfort Features:

This variant is bestowed with an air conditioning system that comes along with a heater and rotary AC controls. All its windows are power operated, while the steering wheel has tilt adjustable function. The multi information display includes odometer, tripmeter, along with a few other notifications. A 12V accessory socket is also on the offer for additional convenience. The ORVMs are electrically adjustable, and there is 60:40 split foldable rear seat. Besides these, it also has sunvisors with vanity mirrors, music system with USB and AUX-In sockets, front passenger seat back pockets, driver side storage shelf as well as remote fuel lid and tailgate opener.

Safety Features:

In terms of safety, it is blessed with anti-lock braking system, dual front airbags, collapsible steering column, energy absorbing body structure with side impact beams and ELR seat belts. Other than these, the list also includes a security system, intelligent computerized anti-theft system, child proof rear door locks, defogger and a few other such aspects.

Pros:

1. Attractive price tag.
2. ABS and dual airbags are an advantage.

Cons:

1. Few more safety and comfort aspects can be added.
2. External design needs to be updated.