Maruti Wagon R LXi, VXi and Stingray to get AMT

Maruti Suzuki has been developing an automated manual transmission (AMT)-equipped version of the WagonR. Previous media reports suggested that the AMT will be available only in the Stingray version of the hatchback. Now however, a report by Gaadiwaadi claims that even the standard LXi and VXi variants of the car will be equipped with the technology. A new set of spy images obtained by the website, shows the car with an LXi, VXi and Auto Gear Shift (Maruti's moniker for AMT) badges.

The WagonR is powered by the same 998 cc, 3-cylinder, K10B petrol engine that is found in the Celerio and Alto K10 hatchbacks. This engine develops 67 BHP and 90 Nm. The tallboy will now get the same Magneti Marelli-sourced 5-speed AMT as well. The Italian company supplies about 5,500 units of the transmission to Maruti Suzuki every month. There are rumours that this number could be raised to 7,000 in the coming months.

The AMT variant of the WagonR is likely to be priced about Rs. 40,000 more than the manual variant. There is no official word from Maruti about the launch of the car.