Maruti Suzuki has launched the six-seater XL6 at Rs 9.80 lakh. The MPV, which is based on the Ertiga, is available in two trims – Zeta and Alpha – and features two individual captain chairs for the middle row.
Design-wise, the XL6 is not too dissimilar to the standard Ertiga. However, it does feature a restyled front-end sporting a larger grille with chrome detailing, new LED headlamps, a chunkier bumper and a faux skid-plate. The model also gets blacked-out 15-inch alloy wheels and mirror caps, roof rails and plastic side-body cladding. At the back, there’s a reworked bumper with cladding and a faux skid-plate. Maruti offers six colour options - Nexa Blue, Brave Khaki, Auburn Red, Magma Grey, Premium Silver and Arctic White.
The interior gets an all-black theme, which is different from the beige seen in the standard Ertiga.
In terms of equipment, the both XL6 variants get Maruti’s new SmartPlay Studio infotainment unit, which comprises a 7.0-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, automatic climate control, rear air-con vents, LED DRLs, keyless entry with push-button start/stop, cruise control and height adjust for the driver’s seat. The toip-spec Alpha additionally gets automatic headlamps and a rear parking camera. Standard safety equipment consists of dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, a speed warning system and seat-belt reminders for the driver and co-driver.
The XL6 is powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that does duty in the Ciaz sedan and the standard Ertiga. The engine puts out 105hp and 138Nm of torque; it is BS6-compliant and comes with Maruti’s SHVS mild-hybrid technology, which aids fuel efficiency. It comes paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
The XL6 will be sold via the brand’s Nexa chain of dealerships and not the Arena dealerships that sell the Ertiga. As for its rivals, the XL6 will compete with other MPVs like the Mahindra Marazzo and Honda BR-V and even face competition from SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and the recently updated Renault Duster.
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