Tired of squeezing into regular cars for family trips but find full-size SUVs too big and expensive? The Maruti Suzuki XL6 might just be your sweet spot. This 6-seater MPV takes everything good about the popular Ertiga and gives it a premium makeover that actually makes sense for modern families.
Design and Style
XL6 doesn’t hide what it is and that’s refreshing. Instead of pretending to be a compact SUV, it owns its MPV-ness while adding enough ruggedness to look cool on city streets. The bold front grille and quad-chamber LED headlamps give it a more aggressive face than the Ertiga, while the body cladding all around adds that SUV tough look many buyers want these days.
What really sets it apart is how Maruti has made an MPV look stylish without going overboard. The design feels mature and purposeful, perfect for someone who wants to look responsible but not boring.
Interior and Comfort
Get inside and you would realize why XL6 commands a premium over Ertiga. Those captain seats in the middle row – it’s not a gimmick, it changes the way passengers travel. Rather than crammed three abreast on a bench, you now have a pair of separate seats that allow you to spread out on a long trip.
The all-black interior with silver highlights feels more upmarket than you would think in this price range. It’s not out to impress luxury car buyers, but at the same time, it does not feel cheap. Daily driving won’t be as strenuous, either, due to smart features including automatic climate control and cruise control, not to mention 7-inch touchscreen, which plays nice with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Second-row passengers get their own AC vents, which is a blessing during Indian summers. The connected car technology through Suzuki Connect adds modern convenience without being overwhelming.
Engine and Performance
Under the bonnet the K15C 1.5-liter engine with Progressive Smart Hybrid technology is a smart one. 103 PS and 137 Nm of torque won’t win any awards but it handles city traffic and highway cruising with equal ease. The hybrid assist helps with fuel efficiency and makes the engine feel more responsive in stop and go conditions.
The real star here is the fuel economy. Over 20 kmpl in real world conditions means fewer fuel stops and more money in your pocket. If you are environmentally conscious or just want to save on running costs the CNG variant delivers 26.32 km/kg though with slightly reduced power output.
Both manual and automatic transmissions are well matched to the engine’s character. The 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters adds a bit of sportiness though this isn’t really a car you buy for driving thrills.
Safety and Features
Maruti has loaded the XL6 with four airbags as standard and all the essential safety tech like ABS with EBD and Electronic Stability Program. The Hill Hold Assist is super useful if you live in hilly areas. Higher variants get a 360 degree camera system that makes parking a breeze especially since the XL6 is a long car.
It hasn’t been crash tested by Global NCAP yet but the safety equipment list checks all the boxes. The ISOFIX mounts make it easy to install child seats properly.
Price and Value
Starting at around Rs. 11.83 lakh and going up to Rs. 15.00 lakh the XL6 isn’t cheap but it delivers on its premium promises. The Zeta variant has all the essentials while the Alpha+ justifies its higher price with ventilated seats and that useful 360 degree camera.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L K15C DualJet Petrol with Smart Hybrid |
| Power | 103 PS (Petrol) / 88 PS (CNG) |
| Torque | 137 Nm (Petrol) / 121.5 Nm (CNG) |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic |
| Mileage | 20.27-20.97 kmpl (Petrol) / 26.32 km/kg (CNG) |
| Seating | 6-seater with captain chairs |
| Price Range | Rs. 11.83 – 15.00 lakh (ex-showroom) |
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XL6 FAQs
What’s the real world mileage of XL6? 16-18 kmpl in city and 20-22 kmpl on highways with petrol engine which is almost on par with the official figures.
Is XL6 good for long highway trips? Yes. The comfortable seating, good ride quality and decent power makes it perfect for family road trips but not for high speed touring.
How does it compare to Kia Carens? XL6 has better fuel efficiency and Maruti’s service network while Carens has more features and engine options. Each choice has its merits, depending on what matters most to you.
Should I buy automatic or manual? Automatic makes city driving much easier and the mileage difference is minimal. If you do a lot of urban commuting, the extra cost is worth it.
Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki XL6 succeeds because it knows what it wants to be – a comfortable, efficient family car with just enough premiumness to feel special. It’s not the most exciting car to buy but it’s probably one of the most sensible if you need to move 6 people regularly without burning a hole in your pocket on fuel and maintenance.
