1997 SUZUKI Wagon R 1.0L 5MT (65 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Suzuki introduced the second generation of the Wagon R in 1997 on the Asian market, and it managed to offer a roomy interior for a tiny city vehicle.

With its Japanese kei-car segment experience, Suzuki tried to export the Wagon R on several other markets. Its idea was to offer the small MPV with larger engines than those provided in Japan, where the kei-segment was limited to 600 cc.

There wasn’t too much styling involved in the Wagon R. It was just a cube with another cube at the front and a pair of squared headlights. The only imaginative test for the design team was to create an attractive grille and bumper. But both of them had to fit inside the exterior kei-segment limits. While practical within city limits, the Wagon R wasn’t at home on twisty roads or highways. Due to its unusual height, the car’s stability was affected by cross-winds.

Inside, the cabin was fitted with good quality materials. Everything was well laid out. The controls were intuitively placed and easy to action, while the black letterings on white gauges were easy to read. The cloth upholstery was available in different colors to personalize the Wagon according to the buyer’s taste.

Suzuki installed a choice of two engines under Wagon R’s hood: a 1.0- and a 1.2-liter gasoline engine. They provided 65 hp and 70 hp, respectively.