The Suzuki Wagon R+ (EM) 1.0 i (69 Hp), produced between 1998 and 2000, represents a significant iteration of Suzuki’s popular “kei car” philosophy, adapted for broader European and international markets. While the Wagon R series originated as a compact, affordable vehicle for Japan’s unique vehicle regulations, the Wagon R+ (EM) was designed to offer a more spacious and versatile option for families, particularly in Europe where smaller cars are highly valued. This model aimed to bridge the gap between ultra-compact city cars and larger, more expensive minivans, offering a practical and economical solution for urban transportation.
The Suzuki Wagon R+ (EM): A Compact Family Vehicle
The Wagon R+ (EM) is a five-door minivan characterized by its tall, boxy design, maximizing interior space within a relatively small footprint. It was positioned as a competitor to vehicles like the Fiat Multipla and Renault Twingo, offering a unique blend of practicality, affordability, and fuel efficiency. The “+” designation indicated a longer wheelbase and increased interior volume compared to the standard Wagon R, enhancing its appeal as a family vehicle. Its success lay in providing a surprisingly spacious interior and a generous boot capacity for its size, making it a popular choice for small families and individuals needing versatile cargo space.
Engine & Performance
The Wagon R+ (EM) 1.0 i is powered by Suzuki’s K10A engine, a 997 cc (60.84 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 69 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 88 Nm (64.91 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, the K10A engine provides adequate power for urban driving and reasonable performance on open roads. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 845 kg (1862.91 lbs) contributes to a weight-to-power ratio of 12.2 kg/Hp, allowing for a maximum speed of 140 km/h (86.99 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption figures of 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) extra urban and 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) urban. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The engine’s design prioritized efficiency and reliability over high performance, aligning with the vehicle’s intended use as an economical and practical family car.
Design & Features
The Wagon R+ (EM) features a distinctive, upright design that maximizes interior space. Its tall roofline and large windows contribute to a spacious and airy cabin. The five-door configuration provides easy access for passengers and cargo. Inside, the Wagon R+ (EM) offers a surprisingly versatile interior. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, and the front passenger seat can also be folded flat to accommodate longer items. The minimum trunk (boot) space is a generous 635 liters (22.42 cu. ft.). Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) as standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The vehicle’s suspension consists of a spring strut setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The Wagon R+ (EM) was available with a range of optional features, including air conditioning and power steering, depending on the market and trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Wagon R+ |
| Generation | Wagon R+ (EM) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 i (69 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 69 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3500 rpm (64.91 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K10A |
| Engine displacement | 997 cm3 (60.84 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 68 mm (2.68 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 68.6 mm (2.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 845 kg (1862.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 635 l (22.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3410 mm (134.25 in.) |
| Width | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Height | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2335 mm (91.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1355 mm (53.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.6 m (31.5 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 155/65 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Suzuki Wagon R+ (EM) 1.0 i (69 Hp) ultimately represents a clever packaging exercise, offering a surprising amount of space and practicality in a compact and affordable package. While not a performance vehicle, its fuel efficiency, versatility, and relatively low running costs made it a popular choice for those seeking a sensible and economical family car.
