Suzuki South Africa is currently on a roll, not just in terms of its sales figures, but also in terms of the new models it is launching into the market. This year alone, the current third best passenger vehicle seller in the country, has already seen the launch of the new Eeco, as well as the compact SUV, the Fronx, launched exactly a week ago.
The manufacturer just launched the new XL6, whilst the 5-door Jimny is set to make its arrival soon (potentially even at the #JimnyGathering).
As with the Eeco and the Fronx, Suzuki South Africa saw an opening within the market; this time around being the need for more six-seater vehicles.
The new XL6 slots in below the (also recently launched) Grand Vitara, but is set to have the most seats available in the Suzuki range; and will also be some 100mm longer than the latter (at 4.445 meters). Judging by international reviews, although it takes away some space from the boot, it does not mean that the third row will be cramped. In fact, it is regarded to be one of the most spacious on the market when it comes to rear legroom.
With business class-like legroom in the second row, the third row can comfortably seat people below 1.7 meters, whilst even the seats in the latter row can be adjusted and moved according to the occupants’ desires. Should only the first two rows be required, the third row can be folded down to enlarge the boot volume from 209 litres to 550 litres.
Furthermore, each row offers seatbelts, and the two front rows even have armrests. The middle row consists of two individual seats, rather than one solid bench seat, while the third row is a bench seat. The third row can, however, be folded down in a 50:50 split to allow for five occupants and some more cargo or luggage.
All XL6 models are powered by the ever-reliable 1.5l petrol engine, capable of 77kW and 138Nm. These engines are generally rev happy, and have proven to be reliable and light on fuel. Both the manual and the automatic versions are said to deliver a fuel economy of around 6 litres /100km. While manufacturers tend to exaggerate these figures, we have found Suzuki’s to be fairly close in real-life conditions. The true figure will be provided during our formal test with the XL6.
For models to choose from:
The XL6 is sold in four derivatives, a five-speed manual or a four speed automatic either in the GL or GLX trim. Each of these models have LED head-, tail-, and fog lights. Similarly, each of the GL and GLX models also feature colour-coded side mirrors and integrated turning signals. These mirrors can also be adjusted electronically.
With ground clearance being another important factor for South-African buyers, the XL6 stands 180mm from the ground with 185/65 15-inch alloy wheels featured on both models. Each XL6 even features a full-sized spare.
Suzuki also did not shy away from other “nice-to-have” features as even the entry-level GL models boast with a 7” touch screen, with (you guessed it) six speakers, and the latest phone connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay). The GL model even features a rear-view camera.
Electric windows, climate control (rear manual air conditioning), not one but three 12-Volt sockets, a USB port, keyless entry and central locking, as well as a keyless start/stop functionality also come as standard.
The GLX model adds a leather-wrapped interior (seats and steering wheel), automatic headlamps and key-operated folding mirrors.
Safety features
The HEARTECT system has been included for the XL6, meaning that it is fairly lightweight, and has been proven to have a strong chassis. Furthermore, the XL6 also comes with ABS (with EBD), dual airbags, and ESP. The XL6 has also been made safe for children in the rear seats, with ISOFIX points and childproof rear door locks being fitted.
Even more astonishingly, even the GL automatic models feature hill-hold control, an alarm, and a high-level stop lamp.
The XL6 range is sold with a five-year / 200 000km warranty and a four-year / 60 000km service plan.
The XL6 prices are as follow:
– 1.5 GL (manual) = R326 900
– 1.5 GLX (manual) = R341 900
– 1.5 GLX (automatic) = R360 900
Whilst we are yet to test the new XL6, Suzuki has once again proven that you do not need to purchase the top-spec variant or unnecessary add-ons in order to get the most value for money. Even the GL models can be seen as great value for money offerings under the R350 000 price point.