New Maruti XL6: There aren’t many MPV’s in the country that get the balance between practicality and upmarket appeal just right. Now we have the New Maruti Suzuki XL6 that – out of all clichés here – not just transports people but does so with style.
Updated with modern touches, mild-hybrid tech and a more premium vibe recently, the XL6 is more than just a rebadged Ertiga. Today it stands on its own as a sleek, utilitarian, family-friendly alternative for buyers who desire function as well as form.
Now, let’s take a closer look at what the new XL6 has got — and where perhaps it could have pushed further.
Looks: MPV Whore, SUV BlingJNIEXPORT(Mahindra Reva)Design – MPV With A touch Of SUVIsh- First impression of the braking was that of lack lusture performance but soon you know that the brakes are good, and I mean very good!
The XL6 doesn’t look like a regular people mover. It leans heavily on SUV-like styling cues though, with its striking front grille, quad-LED headlamps, and tough plastic cladding on the sides.
The higher stance, roof rails, and machine-cut alloy wheels also contribute to its attractive looks and differentiate it from the Ertiga.
At the back, the premium feel is complemented by LED tail lamps with a smoked finish and reshaped bumper. It is obvious Maruti wanted the XL6 to be designed less utilitarian and more lifestyle—and they have struck a good balance.
Interior: Spacious, Comfortable and Loaded With Features
Get in, and, the captain seats in the middle of the car grab your attention. This 6-seating arrangement is equivalent to the business-class for more comfort, especially for families with kids or seniors.
The dual-tone black-and-silver dashboard is a mild premium touch, and plastics quality, while not opulent, is robust and functional.
The 7-inch SmartPlay Pro touchscreen boasts wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and also adds connected car features through Suzuki Connect.
There’s a coloured MID in the instrument cluster, rear AC vents, cooled front seats and automatic climate control — all of which will help when driving around in Indian heat and changing road surfaces.
Although the third row doesn’t offer tons of room for adults, it’s perfectly fine for kids or for taking short jaunts. Boot room is rated at 209 litres with all the seats up, but grows substantially when the third row is folded flat.
Performance: It’s just smooth, quiet and effortless.
Powering the XL6 is a 1.5L K15C DualJet petrol engine with Suzuki’s Smart Hybrid tech. It produces 103PS and 137Nm, which are hardly exciting figures, but powerful enough to cruise around the city and out on the highway in, um, relaxed fashion.
You have a choice of 5-speed manual and newly available 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
The mild-hybrid setup aids fuel efficiency and facilitates smoother start-stop transitions. You can expect a fuel economy of about 20.97 km/l (manual) and 20.27 km/l (automatic)—very good numbers for such a big car.
It rides soft and plush, absorbing potholes and speed bumps with ease. Its handling is tidy (though not sporty). It is engineered to be comfortable, and it is.
Pros: Why the New XL6 Looks Good
SUV-Like Styling: Looks different from standard MPVs.
Comfort Captain Seats: Great for middle row passengers.
Fuel Efficient: Hybrid technology means costs remain down even on the road.
Feature Rich: Wi-fi + DTCV, Auto AC, paddle shifters.
Quiet and Smooth Drive: Great machine for families or for long drives.
Cons: What Could Be Better
Average Third-Row Space: Adults will be uncomfortable on long drives.
No Diesel Choice: Also limits appeal in areas where drivers still appreciate diesel.
Plastic Quality Still Basic: Interior should have been premium for the price.
Short Boot with all Seats Up: Requires better luggage control.
Gets No Turbo Boost: Performance will be somewhat sedate for enthusiasts.
New Maruti XL6: Bottom Line Chic, Practical and Family Ready
The new Maruti Suzuki XL6 is meant for someone who desires a product more aspirational than the Ertiga but doesn’t really want to stretch their budget to that of the Toyota Innova.
It adds a touch of style, lot of practicality and peace of mind that comes with Maruti’s vast service network and dependable engineering.
It is not sexy, nor is it supposed to be. But for city dwellers who prioritize comfort, space and thrift in a premium looking package, the XL6 is an incredibly sensible choice.
