The compact car market in India is evolving rapidly, and as of November 2025, the new Maruti Suzuki WagonR 2025 and the Hyundai Exter stand out as two of the most popular choices for urban families. Both offer practicality, strong mileage, and modern tech at competitive prices. But which one fits your needs better in terms of features, safety, comfort, and value for money? Let’s take a detailed look at how these two cars compare across key categories.
Design and Dimensions
The Maruti Suzuki WagonR 2025 retains its tall-boy design but now features a slightly reworked front fascia with a wider grille and LED projector headlamps. It continues to prioritise cabin space and upright visibility — perfect for Indian city driving. The squared-off design maximises headroom and gives it a more functional appeal.
The Hyundai Exter, in contrast, takes a more SUV-inspired approach. Its muscular stance, roof rails, and two-tone roof make it look sportier and more premium. The ground clearance and overall proportions feel more robust for Indian road conditions.
| Specification | WagonR 2025 | Hyundai Exter |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3655 mm | 3815 mm |
| Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Height | 1675 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2435 mm | 2450 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm | 185 mm |
Verdict: The WagonR 2025 remains practical with its tall design and easy ingress, while the Exter offers a more SUV-like stance and better road presence.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the WagonR 2025 continues its focus on space and functionality. The dual-tone dashboard feels fresher, and the addition of a 7-inch SmartPlay infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay ensures modern connectivity. The tall cabin offers best-in-class headroom and wide glass areas that make it airy and comfortable for long drives.
The Hyundai Exter raises the bar with higher-quality materials and a more premium feel. It gets an 8-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a voice-enabled sunroof on higher trims. The seats are better contoured, and NVH levels are noticeably lower.
Verdict: The Exter feels more upmarket and feature-loaded, while the WagonR remains the practical and comfortable family choice.
Performance and Engine Options
The Maruti WagonR 2025 is offered with two petrol engines — a 1.0L and a 1.2L K-Series DualJet unit. Both come with Idle Start-Stop technology and are available with 5-speed manual or AMT transmissions. It also retains a factory-fitted CNG option, which makes it a preferred choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Hyundai Exter uses a 1.2L Kappa petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox. It delivers smooth city performance and refined highway behaviour. Hyundai also offers a CNG variant, making both cars competitive in terms of efficiency.
| Engine Spec | WagonR 2025 | Hyundai Exter |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L / 1.2L K-Series | 1.2L Kappa Petrol |
| Power | 67 / 88 PS | 83 PS |
| Torque | 89 / 113 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Transmission | 5MT / AMT | 5MT / AMT |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG | Petrol / CNG |
Verdict: The WagonR offers better engine flexibility and fuel efficiency, while the Exter delivers smoother performance with a more refined petrol engine.
Mileage and Efficiency
Both cars are known for efficiency, but Maruti still leads this race. The new DualJet engines and idle start-stop system help the WagonR 2025 deliver up to 25.2 km/l (petrol) and 34.0 km/kg (CNG).
The Exter, being slightly heavier, delivers around 19.4 km/l (petrol) and 27.1 km/kg (CNG). However, its real-world driving feel is smoother with less engine noise and vibration.
| Variant | WagonR 2025 (ARAI) | Exter (ARAI) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol (MT) | 24.3–25.2 km/l | 18.8–19.4 km/l |
| CNG | 33.5–34.0 km/kg | 27.0–27.1 km/kg |
Verdict: The WagonR 2025 wins on mileage and operating cost, ideal for daily commuting and long-term savings.
Safety Features
Safety is a big focus in 2025, and both cars now meet India’s updated safety standards. The WagonR 2025 comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, and Hill Hold Assist on AMT variants. Rear parking sensors and ISOFIX mounts are standard across all trims.
The Hyundai Exter pushes things further with segment-first features like a dashcam with dual cameras, TPMS, and emergency SOS alerts. It also includes six airbags as standard from the base variant onwards.
| Safety Feature | WagonR 2025 | Hyundai Exter |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ESP & Hill Hold | Yes (AMT only) | Yes |
| TPMS | No | Yes |
| Dashcam | No | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Yes |
Verdict: The Exter has an edge in active safety and equipment, though WagonR now meets strong safety expectations for its class.
Pricing in India (November 2025)
| Variant | WagonR 2025 | Hyundai Exter |
|---|---|---|
| Base Petrol | ₹5.99 lakh | ₹6.50 lakh |
| Mid Variant | ₹6.69 lakh | ₹7.35 lakh |
| Top Petrol AMT | ₹7.45 lakh | ₹8.10 lakh |
| CNG Variant | ₹7.19 lakh | ₹8.00 lakh |
Both cars offer strong value, but the WagonR 2025 keeps a notable price advantage, especially for families looking for a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option.
Verdict: The WagonR remains unbeatable on affordability, while the Exter provides better features for those willing to spend a bit more.
Final Verdict
In the battle of Maruti Suzuki WagonR 2025 vs Hyundai Exter, both cars appeal to slightly different audiences. The WagonR continues to rule the value segment with its space, fuel economy, and affordable running costs. The Hyundai Exter, meanwhile, brings a stylish, feature-rich, and safer package for those wanting an SUV-like personality in a compact car.
Verdict Summary:
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Best for Families on a Budget: Maruti Suzuki WagonR 2025
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Best for Urban Style and Safety: Hyundai Exter
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Overall Winner (India, November 2025): Hyundai Exter for its design and features
FAQs
Which car has better mileage — WagonR 2025 or Exter?
The Maruti WagonR 2025 offers higher mileage, especially in CNG mode, making it more efficient for daily commuters.
Does the Hyundai Exter have better safety features?
Yes, the Exter offers segment-leading safety features like a dashcam, TPMS, and SOS alerts along with six airbags.
Which car is better for long drives?
Both perform well, but the Exter provides better highway stability due to its wider track and SUV stance.
Is the WagonR 2025 available with a CNG option?
Yes, Maruti offers a factory-fitted CNG kit for the WagonR 2025, available in select trims.
Which one is more value for money in India?
The WagonR 2025 is more affordable and economical, while the Exter offers a premium experience at a higher price.