Maruti Suzuki have just launched the XL6 crossover in India. The XL6 can be thought of as a Toyota Rush, Perodua Aruz, and Honda BR-V competitor, as it too shares its origins with a compact MPV – the new Suzuki Ertiga (Proton sells the previous model of the Ertiga). However, unlike the Rush and Aruz, the XL6 uses a monocoque chassis with a front-wheel-drive setup.
Performance
Under the hood, the XL6 comes with the Suzuki K15B petrol engine. This 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated four-cylinder is your typical workhorse powerplant. It comes with double overhead cams, 4 valves per cylinder and variable valve timing. At the crank, it produces 105PS. It’s an engine that powers a number of Suzuki vehicles, including the 2018 Ertiga. The one sold under Proton is the previous model and uses a smaller 1.4-litre engine with slightly less power.
Despite having the looks of a rugged crossover-SUV, the XL6 is not equipped with 4WD. Buyers in India will get to choose between a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
What’s more, the XL6 is being offered as a 6-seater, with individual 2nd row Captain seats where most competitors (and the Ertiga it is based off) comes with 3 seats in the centre. This indicates that the XL6 is being marketed as a slightly upmarket vehicle for those who can afford to put comfort over utility. Perhaps that’s what the ‘6’ in the name indicates. Hopefully, the market does not demand a 7-seater version in the future if this is the case.
Design
In terms of design, the XL6 features crossover elements. It’s clear a lot of work has been done to create body panels distinct from the Ertiga.
A clamshell bonnet, lots more plastic cladding and other SUV-inspired elements are featured on the vehicle.
Some of the more ‘premium’ elements touted include quad LED headlights and LED daytime running lights.
Inside, the XL6 ditches the Ertiga’s beige-on-grey look for a black-on-stone colour scheme.
Colours:
- Nexa Blue
- Brave Khaki
- Auburn Red
- Magma Gray
- Premium Silver
- Arctic White
The car starts at around RM57K-RM67K there.
