01/10/2013
Suzuki has showcased a 7-seater variant of the Wagon R at the recently concluded 2013 Indonesia International motor show (IIMS).
Currently only a concept car, the 'Karimun Wagon R 3 Rows Concept' features a body that is extended after the rear wheel arch. However, the wheelbase on this concept is unaltered, which could point to a sub-four-metre overall length. The current Wagon R's length is 3595mm. The concept also gets a larger (wider) rear quarter glass and a larger rear overhang.
On the inside, the third row gets a very short seat squab, but unlike the Datsun Go+, the seat height should be good. Even then, the third row would be suitable for children at best.
Low-cost, sub-four-metre, 7-seaters could be the next big 'small' thing in India, and Maruti could very well debut this MPV version of the Wagon R here. The Mahindra Quanto is already part of this niche club, and the recently unveiled Datsun Go+ will make its way here some time in 2014. What's more, the lack of rear impact or safety test norms allow cars like this to pass the muster with ease. Maruti could well bring its Wagon R MPV here by late 2014 or early 2015.
