THE Suzuki XL7 has been in the market for sometime now, sitting above the Ertiga in the lineup in the highly competitive multipurpose vehicle (MPV) market. Now with the hybrid version of the Ertiga being introduced early in the year, the XL7 is left without any changes.Chief among which is the 1.5-liter naturally aspirated K15B four-cylinder engine, producing 103 hp and 138 Nm of torque at 4,400rpm, mated to a four-speed automatic. Although an old engine at best, it is among the tried and tested engines in Suzuki's portfolio even to this day, and manages around 8.2 kilometers per liter in the city, and around 10 in mixed conditions including highway driving. While reliable and economical, I feel like there is a need for an XL7 equipped with a mild hybrid engine already being sold in India to go along with the Ertiga Hybrid in the lineup, which we tested to be incredibly frugal.
The interior of the XL7 carries a more youthful vibe.
n The third-row seat of the XL7 provides enough room for rather large occupants.
n The analog-digital gauge combination of the XL7 is very functional.
n The XL7 has cleaner lines compared to the Ertiga. PHOTOS BY ALAIN LOUISE GERONIMO
n Although sharing the platform of the Ertiga, the XL7 still has its own distinct looks.
And while the GLX AT Ertiga Hybrid costs around P1.153 million, the XL7 costs P1.181 million, slightly more expensive than the former.But price difference and performance aside, it is not without its own merits, despite its age. It looks cleaner and more in tune with the times than the Ertiga, making it appealing to a wider demographic. To differentiate itself further from the Ertiga which it was based on, it was given a more aggressive looking front end, with angular headlights and a blacked out grille with a silver Suzuki badge adorning it. The use of black cladding is very prominent in the XL7, on the front bumper, side skirts, as well as the rear, and are decorated with grey accents for a sportier vibe. To compliment the look, it sits 20mm higher than the Ertiga, which gives it an edge over harsher conditions. The rear tail lamps are taken from the Ertiga as they both share the same platform.Most of the XL7's interior pieces were from the Ertiga, but are customized to fit with the more youthful vibe of the XL7. While the Ertiga sports faux wood grain panels and beige interior accents, the XL7 sports a blacked out interior with faux carbon fiber panels on the center console, and black leather and fabric lined seats. It sports the same center console layout as the Ertiga Hybrid, but it was introduced here in the XL7 before, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a reverse parking camera, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.Audio controls are found on the steering wheel so there's no need to reach for the touchscreen to skip a track. There are also ventilated cup holders that keep your cold drinks cool as well, same as the Ertiga, which is a nice touch. The analog-digital gauge cluster has monitors for brake input, power and torque delivery.
