2022 Suzuki XL6 revealed with 1.5L hybrid, 6-speed A/T

A few weeks ago, Suzuki announced that the next-generation Ertiga will come with a hybrid powertrain along with a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Based on the teaser provided, it looks more like the Ertiga will get an extensive facelift along with the aforementioned hybrid and transmission upgrades.

However, it looks like the Ertiga will not be the first Suzuki to come with the new upgrades. Instead, the XL6 is the first model to be equipped with the all-new hybrid engine and 6-speed automatic.

Wait, isn't the XL6 also the XL7? Actually, the XL6 is the 6-seater version that's built, manufactured, and sold for the Indian market. Meanwhile, the XL7 that we get comes with 7 seats and is built and sourced from Indonesia. Unlike the XL6, the XL7 doesn't come with captain seats on the second row, hence its different name. But enough about that, let's get down to the most important upgrades of the XL6.

The high-riding MPV now comes with the next-generation 1.5-liter Dual Jet K-Series engine with Smart Hybrid Technology. The mild-hybrid system allows the engine to produce 104 PS at 6000 rpm and 137 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. Compared to the XL7, the mild-hybrid XL6 gets 1 extra PS but 1 less Nm of pull.

While the engine appears to have only received a very minor upgrade, the mild-hybrid setup has given the XL6 fuel-saving features. These include idle start/stop and brake energy regeneration that can recharge the hybrid system. It also comes with torque assist that helps with faster acceleration while under load.

Last but not least, the engine is now connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission complete with paddle shifters. Combined with the mild-hybrid system, Suzuki says the XL6 can achieve 20.27 km/l. Go for the 5-speed manual gearbox, and Suzuki claims it can average nearly 21.0 km/l.

The XL6 also received some key upgrades in both its exterior and interior. Thanks to the “Crafted Futurism” design language, the vehicle now comes with a bolder front grille with a sweeping X-bar design, updated LED taillights with a smoked finish, gloss black finish on the B- and C-pillars, chrome garnishes on the side fenders, and a new tailgate garnish with chrome trim.

Inside, Suzuki was busy making the XL6 more comfortable and high-tech. The front seats are now ventilated and are designed to keep occupants cool and comfy. Meanwhile, there's a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with built-in Suzuki Connect.

Aside from allowing passengers to wirelessly connect their phones, the Suzuki Connect comes with intelligent voice control that can be activated by saying “Hi Suzuki”. Users can also remotely control certain functions of the vehicle, including automatic climate control. The remote functions can even be controlled through a compatible smartwatch and voice connectivity through Amazon or Alexa.

When it comes to added safety, the XL6 comes with the following; four airbags (front and front side), a tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability with hill-hold assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

With the Suzuki XL6 Hybrid now available in the Indian market, could the updated XL7 also come with the mild-hybrid setup?

Based on our previous report, Suzuki Indonesia plans to build hybrid versions of both the Ertiga and the XL7. The Ertiga Mild Hybrid is expected to be launched this year while the XL7 Mild Hybrid is set to debut in 2023. Both vehicles will be produced at the automaker's Cikarang plant in Indonesia.