Maruti Wagon R Bioflex VS Standard Wagon R and Fleet-Spec Tour H3

Maruti Suzuki has introduced the Wagon R Bioflex, India's first production flex-fuel car, priced at Rs 7.24 lakh (ex-showroom).

Based on the top-spec Wagon R ZXi+ MT, it is aimed at the commercial sector and runs on petrol as well as E85 ethanol-blended fuel.

The Wagon R Bioflex uses a modified 1.2-litre K12N four-cylinder engine with upgraded fuel injectors, pumps, lines, ECU, and an ethanol sensor for E85 compatibility. It comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Exact power and torque figures are yet to be revealed, but the standard ZXi+ MT delivers 91hp and 114Nm with claimed mileage of 23.56 kmpl (MT). Mileage on E85 is expected to be lower, as seen in similar tests.

The fleet-exclusive Wagon R Tour H3 uses a smaller 1.0-litre engine producing 69hp, available in Petrol MT and CNG MT options, and is significantly cheaper (Rs 4.99 lakh to Rs 5.89 lakh).

Also Read - Maruti Suzuki WagonR Flex Fuel Launched At 7.24 Lakhs, For Commercial Use Only

Design-wise, the Bioflex looks almost identical to the standard Wagon R but adds ‘Flex Fuel’ decals on the sides and a ‘Bioflex’ badge on the tailgate. There are no other major exterior changes.

Inside, it shares features with the ZXi+, with the black-and-beige dual-tone theme, fabric seats, and 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also gets 6 airbags, ESP, manual AC with rear vents, and all other features. The Tour H3, being a base fleet model, gets basic interiors.

Also Read - Every Upcoming Flex Fuel Cars You Need To Know About

Priced Rs 86,000 higher than the ZXi+ MT. Real-world savings on E85 need careful evaluation, as mileage is likely to be significantly lower, running on E85 fuel as compared to E20.

However, the car does come with the advantage of being future-ready for most fuel blends, eliminating reliability concerns that stem from non compatibility of fuels.

Image Source: Maruti Suzuki