The Wagon R has long been beloved as Suzuki’s tall mini wagon, but since its full model change in February 2017, some have called it “terrible.” In this article, we examine the various opinions about the new Wagon R and get to the bottom of whether it really is “terrible.” We’ll also provide detailed information useful for those considering purchasing one , including information on the full model change scheduled for 2024 .
Is the new Wagon R going to be terrible?

A thorough explanation of the reviews and ratings of the new Wagon R
As of July 2024, when searching for the new Wagon R, the search result is often “New Wagon R is terrible.” The reputation of the new Wagon R has been mixed in various places, including social media, automotive media, and review sites.
Negative opinions about the new Wagon R and their reasons
The main negative comments about the new Wagon R are as follows:
- Design has become monotonous: There are opinions that there are few changes from the previous model.
- Low interior quality: There are many plastic parts, and some people say it looks cheap.
- Unsatisfactory driving performance: While it is sufficient for a light car, some say it is not enough for those looking for a sporty driving experience.
However, these are just some of the opinions, and not all users feel the same way. Users who actually drive the new Wagon R say,
- Spacious interior space: It’s surprisingly spacious for a compact car, and you can feel comfortable inside.
- Excellent fuel economy: Economical and easy on the wallet.
- Comprehensive safety features: drive with peace of mind.
There have also been many positive comments such as:
New Wagon R performance and driving evaluation

Wagon R

Wagon R Stingray

Wagon R Custom Z
Hybrid and engine performance comparison
The new Wagon R is available in both gasoline and hybrid versions. Hybrid models offer excellent fuel economy, but are slightly more expensive. Both models have sufficient engine power for a light vehicle, making them suitable for everyday use.
| Specifications | New Wagon R/ Wagon R Stingray |
New Wagon R/ Wagon R Stingray |
New Wagon R |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,680mm | 1,680mm | 1,680mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | 2,460mm | 2,460mm |
| engine | 660cc inline 3-cylinder turbo engine + motor |
660cc inline 3-cylinder engine + motor |
660cc inline 3-cylinder engine |
| Maximum engine output | 47kW (64ps) / 6,000rpm |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
| Maximum engine torque | 98Nm (10.0kgm) / 3,000rpm |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output | 2.3kW (3.1ps) / 1,000rpm |
1.9kW (2.6ps) / 1,500rpm |
– |
| Motor maximum torque | 50Nm (5.1kgm) / 100rpm |
40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
– |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
Lithium- ion battery |
– |
| Drive system | 2WD(FF)/4WD | 2WD(FF)/4WD | 2WD(FF)/4WD |
| WLCT mode fuel economy | 23.4km/L (2WD) 21.8km/L (4WD) |
25.2km/L (2WD) 24.2km/L (4WD) |
24.4km/L (2WD) 23.2km/L (4WD) |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people | 4 people | 4 people |
Evaluation of ride comfort and driving performance
The ride quality of the new Wagon R is soft and comfortable. It absorbs vibrations from the road well, so you won’t get tired even on long drives. The driving performance is sufficient for a light car, but it may not be enough for those looking for a sporty driving experience.
User reviews and comments
Many users of the new Wagon R have given positive feedback, such as “it’s comfortable to ride,” “it’s fuel efficient,” and “it has a full complement of safety features.” On the other hand, there have also been some negative comments, such as “the design is lacking,” “the interior looks cheap,” and “the driving performance is lacking.”
New Wagon R fuel economy and maintenance costs
Comparison of fuel economy performance and actual fuel consumption
The new Wagon R’s fuel economy is 25.2km/L in WLTC mode. Actual fuel economy will vary depending on driving conditions and road conditions, but you can expect it to be around 20km/L.
Maintenance costs (taxes, insurance, maintenance)
The maintenance costs for the new Wagon R are standard for a minicar. Including taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, it will cost around 100,000 to 150,000 yen per year.
Cost-effective for long-term use
The new Wagon R has excellent fuel efficiency, making it extremely cost-effective over long-term use. This reduces gasoline and maintenance costs, easing your financial burden.
Safety and equipment of the new Wagon R
Safety equipment and its evaluation
The new Wagon R is equipped with advanced safety technology called Suzuki Safety Support. It is equipped with various safety features such as collision mitigation braking, false start prevention function, and lane departure warning function, and boasts high safety performance.
Collision safety performance and user peace of mind
The new Wagon R has received the highest five-star rating in the JNCAP crash safety performance assessment. High crash safety performance gives users a sense of security and supports safe driving.
New Wagon R user satisfaction
User reviews and overall ratings
User reviews of the new Wagon R are generally positive. Its ride comfort, fuel economy, and safety features have been highly praised. However, some users seem to be dissatisfied with the design, interior quality, and driving performance.
Analysis of reasons for popularity and complaints
The new Wagon R is popular for its spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and comprehensive safety features. Dissatisfaction with the car includes a stale design, low interior quality, and lackluster driving performance.
Key points of the new Wagon R that users support
Users who support the new Wagon R mainly appreciate the following points:
- The spacious interior space allows for a comfortable stay.
- Good fuel economy and economical.
- It is equipped with a full range of safety features, so you can drive with peace of mind.
Should we wait for the new model? Looking forward to the future of the Wagon R
In response to the negative feedback about the new Wagon R, Suzuki is expected to make improvements in future model changes. We can expect a complete redesign, improved interior quality, and improved driving performance.
If you’re dissatisfied with the design or interior of the new Wagon R, you could wait for the next model change. However, if you prioritize spaciousness, fuel economy, and safety features, you may be satisfied with the current model.

Key points of the full model change for the 2024 model
The full model change scheduled for 2024 is expected to bring improvements that will dispel the negative opinions mentioned above. Specifically,
- New design: A more stylish and unique design.
- Improved interior quality: High-quality materials are used to create a luxurious feel.
- Improved driving performance: Pursuing a more powerful and sporty driving experience.
The following are expected:
Why do people say it won’t sell?
The main reasons why the new Wagon R is said to be “not selling” are as follows:
- Rise of competing models: There are an increasing number of attractive competing models, such as the N-BOX and Spacia.
- Design preferences: Those who prefer the design of the previous Wagon R may not accept the new design.
- Pricing: The price is a little high for a minicar.
However, in terms of sales volume, the new Wagon R still ranks high in the minicar market, so it’s not as if it’s “not selling well.”
Price and cost performance of the new Wagon R
Vehicle price and total price details
The vehicle price of the new Wagon R varies depending on the grade and options, but is approximately 1,296,900 to 1,888,700 yen. The total price, including options and other fees, will be around 1.5 million to 2 million yen.
Suzuki Wagon R 2023: Partial specification changes, price, and grade
| grade | engine | Drive system |
transmission |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FX | 0.66L DOHC intake and exhaust VVT |
2WD | CVT | 1,296,900 yen |
| 4WD | CVT | 1,420,100 yen | ||
| HYBRID FX-S |
0.66L DOHC intake and exhaust VVT (mild hybrid) |
2WD | CVT | 1,463,000 yen |
| 4WD | CVT | 1,586,200 yen |
Suzuki Wagon R Stingray 2023: Partial specification changes, price, and grade
| grade | engine | Drive system |
transmission |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HYBRID T |
0.66L DOHC intake VVT turbo (mild hybrid) |
2WD | CVT | 1,765,500 yen |
| 4WD | 1,888,700 yen |
Suzuki’s new Wagon R Custom Z will be available in 2023. Details on price and grades are available.
| grade | engine | Drive system |
transmission |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HYBRID ZX |
0.66L DOHC intake and exhaust VVT (mild hybrid) |
2WD | CVT | 1,551,000 yen |
| 4WD | 1,674,200 yen | |||
| HYBRID ZT |
0.66L DOHC intake VVT turbo (mild hybrid) |
2WD | 1,710,500 yen | |
| 4WD | 1,833,700 yen |
Design and evaluation of the new Wagon R
New Wagon R exterior and interior features

Wagon R
The design of the new Wagon R is simple and friendly. The exterior is characterized by horizontal lines and rounded shapes, giving it a cute feel. The interior has a simple design that emphasizes functionality, and its spaciousness is appealing.
A word from the editorial department
Some users have said that the new Wagon R is “terrible,” but that doesn’t necessarily apply to all users. Evaluations vary depending on what is important, such as the design, interior, and driving performance.
When considering the new Wagon R, it’s important to take into account not only negative opinions but also positive ones to determine whether it suits your needs.
The new Wagon R is a minicar with many appealing features, including a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and comprehensive safety equipment. However, it is also true that some people are dissatisfied with the design, interior quality, and driving performance.
When considering a purchase, it is important to consider your own needs and lifestyle, and make a final decision only after fully understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the new Wagon R.
Anticipation is building to see how the new Wagon R will evolve with its full model change in 2024.
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