Maruti Suzuki launches new WagonR

Maruti Suzuki India on Friday launched a new generation WagonR priced between Rs.3.28 lakh and Rs.3.81 lakh.
The new version will take on the likes of newly launched models, including Chevrolet Beat (priced Rs.3.41-4.43 lakh) and Ford Figo (Rs.3.49-3.99 lakh), and Hyundai i10 (Rs.3.47-3.83 lakh).
“This new launch of WagonR is important to Maruti Suzuki for many reasons. It demonstrates the growing research and development capability of the company,'' Maruti Suzuki India Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Shinzo Nakanishi told reporters here. The new version is developed from the latest platform of the vehicle that is available in Japan. The car is powered by the BS-IV compliant 998 cc K-series engine.
MSI had invested Rs.290 crore to bring out the new generation WagonR. Following the new launch, the existing WagonR, which was launched in 1999 and sold a total of 8.8 lakh units, between Rs.3.23 lakh and Rs.3.7 lakh, though the new version would be longer and taller would be phased out.
“WagonR was the second best-selling car last year. It averaged about 10,000 to 12,000 units a month and I am confident that we should be able to maintain that sales,'' MSI Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales) Mayank Pareek said. He said the new WagonR, with its pricing and features, will be able to ward of competition in the compact car segment, where there are nearly 20 models in all. than the old one.
The new vehicle would, however, be more expensive than the old WagonR, which was priced