Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the Wagon R Flex Fuel, India’s first mass-market hatchback capable of running on ethanol-petrol blends
A Greener Drive for Every Indian
In a bold move toward sustainable mobility, Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the Wagon R Flex Fuel, India’s first mass-market hatchback capable of running on ethanol-petrol blends ranging from E20 to E85. Slated for release in February 2026, this innovation aligns with India’s push to reduce fossil fuel dependency and promote agri-based energy solutions.
The Wagon R Flex Fuel retains the practicality and affordability of the original Wagon R, but adds a layer of eco-conscious engineering that could redefine budget mobility in India.
Table of Contents
Powertrain & Fuel Compatibility
- Engine: 1.2L K12C Flex-Fuel Engine
- Power Output:
- Petrol (E20): ~89 bhp
- Ethanol (E85): ~80–85 bhp
- Torque:
- Petrol: 113 Nm
- Ethanol: ~105–110 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed Manual (AMT expected later)
- Fuel Compatibility: E20 to E85 ethanol blends
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 32 Litres
🔧 Key Technologies
- Ethanol percentage detection sensor
- Heated fuel rails for cold starts
- Upgraded engine management system
- Corrosion-resistant fuel injectors and pumps
Feature Chart
| Category | Feature Highlights |
| Infotainment | 7″ SmartPlay Studio, smartphone navigation |
| Comfort & Convenience | Power windows, keyless entry, steering-mounted controls |
| Safety | Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors |
| Driver Assistance | Hill-hold assist (AMT), seatbelt reminder |
| Interior | Dual-tone upholstery, 60:40 split rear seats |
| Exterior | Alloy wheels (ZXi+), Flex Fuel badging, LED tail lamps |
| Connectivity | Cloud-based services, Bluetooth, USB Type A & C ports |
Ex-Showroom Price (Expected)
| Variant | Transmission | Price (INR) |
| LXi | Manual | ₹ 8.50 Lakh |
| VXi | Manual | ₹ 8.75 Lakh |
| ZXi | Manual | ₹ 9.00 Lakh |
| ZXi+ | Manual | ₹ 9.25 Lakh |
Note: Prices may vary based on state subsidies and ethanol fuel incentives.
Safety & GNCAP Rating
- Global NCAP Rating (2023):
- Adult Occupant: ⭐ (1 Star)
- Child Occupant: 🚫 (0 Stars)
- Safety Features:
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Rear parking sensors
- Overspeed warning
- Seatbelt reminders
- Hill-hold assist (AMT only)
Note: Maruti is expected to improve safety in the Flex Fuel variant, but official ratings are awaited.
On-Road Performance
| Metric | E20 Blend (Petrol) | E85 Blend (Ethanol) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 25–27 km/l | 22–24 km/l |
| City Mileage (Est.) | 20–22 km/l | 18–20 km/l |
| Highway Mileage (Est.) | 28–30 km/l | 25–27 km/l |
| Top Speed | 140–145 km/h | 135–140 km/h |
| Acceleration (0–100 km/h) | 12–14 seconds | 13–15 seconds |
Booking & Availability
- Booking Opens: January 2026
- Launch Date: February 2026
- Availability: Maruti Arena dealerships nationwide
- Online Booking: Expected via Maruti Suzuki website
- Booking Amount: ₹5,000 (tentative)
- Color Options:
- Superior White
- Magma Grey
- Gallant Red
- Poolside Blue
- Nutmeg Brown
- Silky Silver
- Midnight Black
Segment Comparison
| Feature/Spec | Wagon R Flex Fuel | Tata Tiago CNG | Hyundai Grand i10 Nios CNG | Tiago EV |
| Fuel Type | E20–E85 Ethanol | CNG | CNG | Electric |
| Mileage (km/l or km/kg) | 22–30 km/l | ~26–28 km/kg | ~25–27 km/kg | ~250–300 km range |
| Power Output | ~89 bhp (Petrol) | ~73 bhp | ~69 bhp | ~74 bhp |
| Transmission | Manual (AMT expected) | Manual / AMT | Manual / AMT | Single-speed EV |
| Safety Rating | 1★ (2023 GNCAP) | 4★ (Tiago) | 2★ (Nios) | 4★ (Tiago EV) |
| Price Range (INR) | ₹ 8.5–9.5 L | ₹ 7–8.5 L | ₹ 7–9 L | ₹ 8.5–10.5 L |
| Boot Space | ~341 Litres | ~242 Litres | ~260 Litres | ~240 Litres |
Market Response & Strategic Impact
The Wagon R Flex Fuel has already made waves at multiple expos, including the Auto Expo 2023 and Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024. With India pushing for ethanol adoption, this car could be a game-changer for budget-conscious and eco-aware buyers.
- GHG Emissions Reduction: Up to 79% on E85 fuel
- Fuel Cost Savings: Ethanol is significantly cheaper than petrol
- Government Support: Ethanol blending targets and infrastructure expansion
Final Verdict: A Practical Path to Greener Mobility
The Maruti Wagon R Flex Fuel isn’t just a technological upgrade, it’s a vision for India’s automotive future. With ethanol compatibility, low running costs, and Maruti’s trusted reliability, it offers a compelling alternative to CNG and entry-level EVs.