Maruti Suzuki has begun phasing out its proven 1.2-litre, four-cylinder K-Series (K12) petrol engine in favour of the new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z-Series (Z12E) engine. The three-cylinder petrol engine is claimed to achieve up to 40% thermal efficiency while reducing friction and mechanical losses. Compared to the 1.2-litre K-Series engine, it has a higher compression-focused design aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
The 2026 Maruti Balneo facelift has been recently introduced with the new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine along with subtle design and feature upgrades. Now, it seems Maruti Suzuki is planning to introduce the three-cylinder engine in the WagonR facelift, which is currently undergoing testing in India.
A heavily camouflaged test mule of the 2026 Maruti WagonR facelift was recently caught on camera. The updated hatchback is expected to come with slightly improved styling and additional features. The spied prototype is likely to be the mid-spec variant, featuring steel wheels and repositioned turn indicators. The hatchback continues to feature its signature tallboy stance, headlamps, vertically positioned taillamps and rear windscreen.
The Maruti WagonR is currently available in four trims – LXi, VXi, ZXi and ZXi+ – with prices ranging from Rs 4.99 lakh to Rs 7.24 lakh (ex-showroom). The hatchback is also available with flex fuel engine option, featuring the tried-and-tested K12N, 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, with tweaks making it compatible with ethanol. Maruti Suzuki has upgraded its fuel pumps, fuel injectors, a calibrated ECU (engine control unit) and an ethanol sensor to detect ethanol level in the fuel.
Image source