Now that the new Fronx has reached South African soil, the next Suzuki local fans can look forward to is the XL6, which is set to make landfall within the next few weeks.
Suzuki South Africa previously confirmed to TopAuto that it has three models scheduled for a domestic debut in the near future, the final one being the five-door Jimny and the first one the Fronx.
As such, by process of elimination, next in line is the XL6, a six-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with SUV-like styling and generous levels of equipment.
What to expect
No South African-specific details about the XL6 have been revealed just yet, unfortunately, though it’s available in Asian markets including India which provides several hints as to what we can expect when it lands in local showrooms.
Among the seven specifications available in this country, the XL6 brings standard nice-to-haves including automatic LED lights and daytime running lamps, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic air conditioning with rear vents, cooled cupholders, keyless entry and start, cruise control, reverse parking sensors, a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four speakers, four airbags, hill-hold assist, and ABS with brake assist.
On the pricier derivatives, Suzuki has further added leatherette seats and a leather flat-bottom steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a premium Arkamys sound system, an upgraded media screen with a wider range of functionalities, an on-board voice assistant, and 360-view cameras.
Each model also sports 16-inch alloy wheels, protective wheel-arch cladding, and front and rear skidplates for a more rugged look than what MPVs are generally known for.
Judging from the Fronx’s spec sheet that is remarkably similar between the two countries, it’s anticipated that the South African XL6 will provide many, if not all of the amenities of its Indian counterpart.
In India, the XL6 is powered by either a 1.5-litre, petrol motor with “Progressive Smart Hybrid Technology”, or one running on a mixture of petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG), but it’s unlikely that the CNG unit will reach local showrooms.
Since the semi-electrified foundation is already available on a Suzuki in South Africa in the form of the Grand Vitara, in which it generates 76kW and 137Nm and is paired with a six-speed automatic shifter, it’s reasonable to assume the XL6 will make use of it, too.
Like the Fronx, the XL6 could also adopt the standard 1.5-litre mill with 77kW and 138Nm that is installed in a variety of Suzuki models on our roads, including in the brand’s other MPV, the Ertiga.
Considering the more premium nature of the XL6 compared to the Ertiga, we wouldn’t be surprised to see both the standard and the hybridised powerlines on offer, akin to the Grand Vitara.
Occupying a footprint of 4,445mm long, 1,775mm wide, and 1,755mm tall, the new Suzuki is similar in size to the Honda BR-V, however, it’s currently unknown whether it will be a replacement for the Ertiga, or Suzuki’s second foray into this steadily-growing segment.
Suzuki XL6
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