In India, regardless of the launch of premium models, compact cars are always the first choice of commoners. The two names in this segment that dominate the market are Swift Dzire and Wagon R. Both these cars are noted for their affordability, mileage, and the backing of Maruti and its vast network of service centres. However, Maruti discontinued the third-generation Swift Dzire in late October 2024 to launch its successor, the new Dzire, which is based on the fourth-generation Swift platform, in November of the same year.
The following article highlights the key differences between the new Dzire and Wagon R, and not between the Swift vs Wagon R.
Differences between Swift Dzire vs Wagon R
Maruti Dzire and Wagon R differ greatly in terms of body type, price point, and comfort. Here is a quick distinction.
- Maruti Dzire: It is a compact sedan with a better boot space, slightly longer body, and a focus on passenger comfort. It is available in petrol and CNG options and offers AMT automatic variants. The ex-showroom price of the Dzire ranges between ₹6.84 lakhs and ₹10.19 lakhs.
- Maruti Wagon R: A tall-boy hatchback that gives easy ingress/egress, a high roof for better headroom, and a very practical cabin layout. It comes with 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre engines, depending on the model line, and also in CNG. The ex-showroom price of Wagon R ranges between ₹5.79 lakhs and ₹7.62 lakhs.
Key highlights of Swift Dzire vs Wagon R
When choosing between the Dzire and Wagon R, base your decision on the following parameters:
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Engine and transmission
The Dzire is equipped with a Z12E three-cylinder engine that has four valves per cylinder and a displacement size of 1,197 cc. It is capable of generating a maximum torque of 111.7 Nm @ 4300 rpm and a maximum power of 80 bhp @ 5700 rpm. Dzire has a five-speed automatic transmission system.
On the other hand, the Wagon R comes equipped with a K12N engine, which has four cylinders and four valves per cylinder. Depending upon the variant, the displacement size varies between 998 cc and 1197 cc. The Wagon R can generate a maximum power of 88.50 bhp @ 6000 rpm, while the maximum torque is capped at 113 Nm @ 4400 rpm. Wagon R also has a five-speed automatic transmission system.
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Fuel and performance
The new Maruti Dzire has a fuel tank capacity of 37 litres, which, as per ARAI, can cover 25.71 kilometres per litre. The CNG engine can deliver up to 33.73 kilometres per kilogram.
The Wagon R, with a fuel tank capacity of 32 litres, can cover 24.43 kilometres per litre. If you are planning for a CNG engine Wagon R, at 34.05 kilometres per kilogram, you can expect much better mileage.
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Technology and infotainment
Talking about Dzire’s technology, it features a 9-inch infotainment system and is equipped with a 360-degree camera. Dzire supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You will also find wireless chargers and four speakers inside the cabin. But that's not all; for a smooth driving experience, the Dzire has automatic climate control and cruise control. The car also features voice command and keyless entry.
When you sit in the Wagon R cabin, the first thing you notice is the 7-inch touchscreen with Android and Apple CarPlay. Next, there are four speakers. For safety, the Wagon R has a door ajar warning, speed-sensing auto door lock, and electronic stability control. This hatchback also features adjustable steering and an idle start-stop system.
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Safety ratings
The new 2025 Maruti Dzire has received a 5-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP. It scored 29.46 out of 32 in adult occupancy and 41.57 out of 49 in child occupancy. In the frontal offset deformable barrier test, the Dzire scored 14.17 out of 16, and in the side test, the results were 15.29 out of 16.
The Wagon R, however, received only a single star in the crash test conducted by Global NCAP in 2023. In adult occupancy, it received 19.69 points out of 34, and in child occupancy, the score was much worse at 3.40 out of 49.
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Design and exterior
When it comes to the exterior, the new Dzire has adjustable headlamps, alloy wheels, a rear window defogger, an integrated antenna, automatic headlamps, and outside rear-view mirror turn indicators. It also features a single-pane sunroof and electronic boot opening.
Similar to the Dzire, the Wagon R also has adjustable headlamps and alloy wheels. However, instead of a rear window defogger, it has a rear window wiper and washer. The Wagon R has manual boot opening and lacks a sunroof.
Swift Dzire vs Wagon R: Interiors and cabin space
The new Dzire offers comfort and practicality with its 1735 mm wide cabin and height and length of 1525 mm and 3995 mm, respectively. It also has a boot space of 382 litres. With a kerb weight of 960 kg and a gross weight of 1375 kg, it can easily accommodate five persons without compromising on comfort. For better safety, the Dzire offers six airbags.
The Wagon R, with dimensions of 1620 mm width, 1675 mm height, and 3655 mm length, is a perfect car for a family of four. It also offers a decent boot space of 341 litres. You can easily fit passengers and luggage with a combined weight of 490 kg. For added comfort, the Wagon R offers a 60:40 foldable split seat.
Role of second-hand car insurance while comparing
If, instead of buying the new Dzire, you prefer going for an old Swift Dzire or Wagon R but are confused about which one to choose, a car insurance policy can be the deciding factor. Unlike new vehicles, used cars may already have an active insurance policy, which can be transferred to the new owner. This not only helps maintain continuity of coverage without gaps but can also save you a few thousand rupees.
Car insurance also offers insight into the car’s condition. By looking at the claim history, you can easily find out how many times and for what purpose the car has arrived at the service centre in the past.
Conclusion
Both the Swift Dzire and Wagon R cater to different needs while carrying Maruti’s trusted reliability. If you seek a stylish compact sedan with premium comfort, advanced features, and top-notch safety, the Dzire makes for an excellent choice. On the other hand, if practicality, easy manoeuvrability, and affordability matter more, the Wagon R remains a strong contender in the hatchback segment. While the Dzire impresses with its higher safety rating and spacious design, the Wagon R wins in fuel efficiency and urban convenience.
FAQs
1. How many variants does Wagon R offer?
Wagon R broadly has four variants: LXi, VXi, ZXi, and ZXi Plus. These variants are further classified based on fuel type, cubic capacity, and advanced features. For example, in VXi, you have options like VXi 1.0, which has a petrol engine and offers manual transmission; and VXi 1.0 AGS, which offers automatic transmission.
2. Is a car insurance policy mandatory for the Wagon R and the Swift Dzire?
Yes, regardless of the car you own, the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 requires you to have a third-party car insurance policy. This policy provides financial protection if your insured vehicle causes physical injury or property damage to a third party.
3. How does a comprehensive car insurance policy shield the Wagon R and the Swift Dzire?
A comprehensive car insurance policy provides financial protection for four-wheelers against damage caused by road accidents, fire incidents, and natural calamities, covering repair and replacement costs.
4. Which car is better for city driving and tight parking?
Wagon R, being a hatchback, comes with 3655 mm in length and 1620 mm in width, offers better manoeuvring, and is easier to park in tight spaces when compared to Dzire, which has a length and width of 3995 mm and 1735 mm, respectively.
5. Which has more boot space?
Dzire wins in luggage capacity and rear seat comfort. It has a boot space of 382 litres, while the Wagon R has a slightly lower boot space of 341 litres.
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