Update - 1:
This is not the prototype of the Wagon R MPV according to the source.
Expected to launch next year.
According to GaadiWaadi, the first prototype of the 7-seat Maruti Wagon R, which is codenamed Maruti 'YJC' has been produced. The YJC is reportedly heading for a launch in the festive season of 2016 (September-October 2016), and ahead of that, testing activities and validation programs have started.
Plans for a 7-seat Wagon R were revealed by Suzuki's Indonesian subsidiary at the 2013 Indonesian International Motor Show (IIMS). While the company did not disclose any details about the concept, reports said that the wheelbase of the car was unaltered, but the overall length was obviously extended to accommodate the third row of seats.
The 5+2 seater is conceptualized to rival the Datsun Go+, which is on sale in India and Indonesia. Like the Go+ (which relies on the Go's engine), power for the Wagon R MPV would come from the same engine seen on the Wagon R (a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol engine) or the 1.2-liter K-Series petrol.
Also read: Maruti Suzuki rolls out 15 million cars
According to a report, Maruti is targeting annual sales of 80,000 units for the Wagon R MPV, and has already floated tenders to its suppliers for sourcing components. The YJC is expected to bridge a potential gap between hatchbacks such as the Wagon R, and MPVs of the Ertiga size.
Competitor: Datsun Go+
Expected Price: INR 4-6 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2016
[Source: GaadiWaadi; Images: Okezone, Kompass, Dapurpacu]
