Indian car manufacturer Maruti Suzuki has launched a brand-new Suzuki XL6 compact van/MPV designed strictly for the national market. The car is basically a luxed-up version of the Suzuki Ertiga.
Indeed, differences between the two are mostly cosmetic: the LX6 sports a different front fascia, an altered rear apron and a black, SUV-like body kit. As an added bonus, it packs LED headlights in all trims.
Inside, the second seat row is represented by two separate seats with comfortable armrests, whereas the Ertiga has a basic sofa there. The finishing materials used are also a touch more expensive than those of the donor MPV.
The standard equipment list is pretty impressive and includes a multimedia system with a 7-inch display, climate control, an engine start button, a rear parking assist, and cruise control. Paid extras include rain/light sensors, a reversing camera, and a quasi-leather cabin trim. In contrast, the safety features are scant, only represented by an ABS and two airbags.
All trim levels come powered by the same 1.5-liter, naturally aspirated gasoline engine with 105 hp (78 kW) at the crank. Assisted by an electric starter-generator, it sends the torque to the front axle by means of a five-speed manual transmission (four-speed automatic also available).
In India, the new Suzuki XL6 starts from the equivalent of U.S. $13,700.