SUZUKI XL6 1.5 GLX
We debate whether the XL6 adds some much-needed fun to the family-van formula
150 km
7.20 L/100 km
+ Practical modular interior a more characterful take on the family van Sharing a single USB port
No sooner had one MPV – the Kia Carnival – departed the CAR long-term fleet than another arrived to take its place in the shape of the Suzuki XL6. And having seen how enamoured Ian Mclaren’s family became with their ‘bus’, there was a sense of excitement I had never expected to feel upon being handed the keys to a practical family vehicle.
As we mentioned in our December 2023 road test of the GL manual model, the XL6 is a
spinoff of Suzuki’s HEARTECT modular platform. Versions of this platform underpin a variety of the firm’s wares, from hatchbacks such as the Swift and Baleno through to the Fronx crossover and Ertiga MPV.
The XL6 is 50 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 65 mm higher than the Ertiga, but shares its 2 740 mm wheelbase and 180 mm of ground clearance and the latter will likely prove a boon on family trips away from tarred surfaces.
In addition to its slightly larger dimensions, the XL6 distinguishes itself by approaching the MPV milieu in a similar manner to Renault’s popular Triber.
Features such as faux barge plates, black plastic cladding on the wheel arches and lower bodywork, and roof rails lend it a more crossover air than the workmanlike Ertiga.
In a move away from most compact MPVS, the XL6 does not feature any bench seating, instead opting for six individual seats finished with synthetic leather in this Glx-spec model. While some may bemoan the omission of an extra seat in the rear, parents familiar with small-scale turf wars over who’s taking up the most seat space may welcome the individual seating arrangement. What’s more, the second row features slide adjustment and individual armrests (yet another hotly contended commodity among younger rear passengers) as well as roof-mounted air vents with manual fan settings.
The only potential for backseat bickering could arise from whose turn it is to charge their tablet, as the only USB port sits up front. Thankfully, the generous glazing all-round means a drive through scenically interesting spots will not go unnoticed by those in the back.
Sunny weather is still on the cards for a few months yet, which means that sizeable boot – featuring a handy 416 litres of load space with four seats in place, 128 with all six seats in place, and a whopping 1 208 with the rear pews folded – will please the kids. No doubt, it will soon be loaded with all manner of toys, sports equipment and the wealth of paraphernalia that accompanies any day trip with young ones aboard.