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The Suzuki XL6 is not a brand-new car, as its arrival was announced in August 2023. However, considering the value proposition, we will never say no to an opportunity to test it for our readers. Now, when it comes to MPVs, only a few companies still offer this type of product, and Suzuki is one of those companies with not only the XL6 but also the Ertiga.
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So you might wonder what the main benefit of choosing the XL6 over the Ertiga is. Well, in this article, I hope to explain what sets it apart. But before we get into the details, remember that you can sell your car quickly and easily on our website here before you search for new or used Suzuki XL6 models on AutoTrader here.
Styling
The XL in the XL6 model designation is apt, considering the size of the car. The model measures 4 445mm long; however, from the styling perspective, it still looks good and in proportion. Upfront is the chrome grille and aggressive-looking LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights. The faux bash plates on the front and rear bumpers also give it a more aggressive design, while the creases on the bonnet give a power-bulges-like impression.
While the XL6 does offer 180mm of ground clearance, good for routes less travelled, where the styling does have a somewhat comical effect is the smaller 15-inch wheels. While they most definitely do what they are intended for, giving ample and returning a good fuel consumption figure, more on this later. Compared to the large side profile of the XL6, the smaller wheels are very noticeable. However, we do like the wheel design.
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Space and Comfort
It is definitely on the interior where things get a little more interesting, and in a good way. Like the XL6 moniker insinuates, the Suzuki is a six-seater: two seats up front, two individual seats in the middle, and two in a bench configuration at the back. The seating configuration of XL6 is more interesting because the Japanese automaker fitted two larger individual seats for the second row rather than a bench configuration.
The two units are big and comfortable, giving passengers sitting in them an impression of a captain's chair, as they also benefit from armrests. The interior also benefits from a nearly flat floor, making climbing in from one side and over to the next side easier. The interior is quite spacious, and even with the front two seats positioned far back, the second row still has ample leg, head and shoulder room.
The two seats at the far rear are a little more cramped, and we recommend those for children who don't require a child restraint seat. But they should provide ample space for two adults on a shorter journey. If you do not require the third row, the seats can fold completely flat, expanding the boot compartment from 209 to 550 litres.
With the partial artificial leather and cloth upholstery and the nice trim pieces found on the door cards and cabin, the interior is a very nice space to be in. The noise, vibration, and harshness are impressive for a vehicle at this price point.
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Technology & Convenience
The XL6 is really impressive in terms of comfort. The seats are plush and comfortable, but the suspension soaked up most of the bumps and undulations. Even compared to some more premium crossovers driven recently, the suspension on the XL6 is more compliant and results in a very comfortable drive for all occupants.
In terms of convenience, the interior benefits from a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system utilizes a USB-A port just below the buttons and controls for the front climate control system. Features of the infotainment system can be controlled from the multifunction steering wheel, which also incorporates buttons for telephony and the cruise control system.
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Performance
The XL6 is a larger car offering space and practicality. When this car was developed, performance wasn't at the top of the priority list. However, the 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine is punchy and likes to rev. The unit produces 77kW and 138Nm of torque and, paired with the 4-speed automatic, as in our test unit, won't induce whiplash off the line.
However, the engine offered ample power, even when loaded with passengers and never felt underpowered. The 4-speed automatic transmission is great for convenience, and the overdrive button does kick it back a gear for overtaking on the highway or navigating up longer inclines; however, after experiencing this engine configuration coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission in a vehicle that has a similar weight, this writer would rather go for the manual gearbox.
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Fuel Consumption
One of the benefits of the 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine in the XL6 is that even with its willingness to rev, it remains a very frugal unit. Suzuki claims an average fuel consumption figure of 6.1 L/100 km. We easily attained this figure after around 600km of driving in urban and highway conditions and normal driving behaviour.
With more careful driving and always being cognisant of our throttle inputs, we could even return an average fuel consumption figure of 5.4 L/100 km.
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Safety
Regardless of whether you get the GL or GLX derivative, you will get a very similar safety package. The Suzuki XL6 has two airbags, one driver and one front passenger airbag. The model is also fitted with ABS brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, and electronic stability control. The XL6 is also built on the HEATECT platform and has strengthened door impact beams for more structural rigidity and crash protection. Hill hold assist also features as standard across the range.
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Price
When purchasing a Suzuki XL6, the owner will benefit from a 5-year / 200 000 km warranty and a 4-year / 60 000 km service plan with the service intervals set at every 15 000 km.
| Model | Price (incl. VAT) |
| Suzuki XL6 1.5 GL manual | R 344 900 |
| Suzuki XL6 1.5 GLX manual | R 360 900 |
| Suzuki XL6 1.5 GL auto | R 363 900 |
| Suzuki XL6 1.5 GLX auto | R 379 900 |
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Competitors
The MPV segment is sparse when it comes to options. Toyota offers the Rumion, based on the Suzuki Ertiga, but Mitsubishi also offers an option in the form of an Xpander. Like the XL6, both those options are fitted with 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engines. However, like Suzuki's Ertiga, those options offer seven seats instead of the six in the XL6.
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The Verdict
Within the context of an MPV, the Suzuki XL6 ticks almost every box. If you require more seats, then perhaps consider the Ertiga, but if you want to have the space, practicality and comfort for you and your family, the XL6 won't disappoint. One area that took some getting used to is how the steering doesn't self-centre but isn't a dealbreaker. With all six seats occupied, the boot is slightly small but should be ample for school runs.
Ultimately, the Suzuki XL6 combines practicality and comfort in an attractive package at an attainable price. If you are considering a vehicle in this segment, we would wholeheartedly recommend it.
The Drive
