JUST over ten years since its launch in 1993, in its original form, more than two million units of Suzuki's unique, versatile and affordable 660cc Wagon R - on sale only in Japan and the forerunner of the Wagon R+ that's been on sale in the UK and Europe since 1997 - have been produced.
Following its introduction in Japan the Wagon R received the country's "New Car of the Year/Award" and almost immediately became the best-selling small passenger car in Japan's popular sub-660cc market sector. Its success was such that by October 1996 more than 500,000 Wagon R had been sold. Now, just seven years later, the magic two million production figure has been achieved.
Recognising the potential for the unique Wagon R concept in markets outside Japan, especially Europe, Suzuki subsequently set out to develop the Wagon R+ which was launched in Europe in 1997 with an all-new successor model unveiled in 2000. Almost 30,000 have now been sold in the UK since it became available and its popularity continues to increase.
The Wagon R+ (sold in Japan as the Wagon R Wide) is substantially wider and more powerful than the Wagon R. For 2004 - and at no extra cost - it has new front end styling and comes equipped with a new 1.3-litre VVT-i engine, ABS with EBD and new interior trim. Overall it provides excellent performance, safety and unrivalled interior space for five adults and their luggage.
Large opening doors and high seating levels provide easy access into and out of the vehicle and exceptional all-round visibility for both driver and passengers. The compact exterior dimensions of the Wagon R+ make it the perfect car for urban use where road space is at a premium and parking spaces are becoming extremely hard to find.
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