Big in practicality: Suzuki XL7 Hybrid

It was only last March when Suzuki Philippines Incorporated (SPH) brought to the country another multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the XL7 Hybrid.

Per SPH, the said offering — stablemate of the Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid — is set to “redefine the driving experience” of motorists in the country.

But is the nameplate’s mild-hybrid version really worth having? Let’s check out the said model.

Dimensions

The Suzuki XL7 Hybrid is 4,450 millimeters (mm) long; 1,775 mm wide; and 1,710 mm tall that offers a 2,740 mm wheelbase and a 200 mm ground clearance.

Its relatively small dimensions go well with the 5.2-meter turning radius meaning it could easily bob and weave through traffic and maneuver in tight spaces.

Exterior

Compared to its Ertiga Hybrid brethren, the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid has a more athletic look that could tickle the taste buds of those who got spunk.

It has a strong sport utility vehicle-esque look, thanks to the underguards and black protection moldings on the front and rear bumpers. The said portion complements the bold grille design with a horizontal chrome accent that matches the headlamps that house daytime running lights.

Additional crossover-like appointments include the roof rails, black wheel arches, and the 16-inch polished alloy wheels wrapped in 195/60R tires.

At the rear are the L-shaped taillamps and the third brake lamp that is fitted particularly at the middle top portion outside the vehicle.  

It may be an acquired taste to some, but the combination of gloss black and chrome portions gives the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid a rugged-yet-refined look.

Interior

The MPV model's overall cabin design is ergonomic and is highly organized. Amid all the buttons present, the D-shaped steering wheel still managed to sport a clean look. The dual zone air-conditioning system can still be controlled using haptic keys, making it easier to find rather than having it on a digital screen.

Boosting elegance and sportiness inside the vehicle are the faux marble with brushed silver trim on the dashboard, a pair of analog gauges that flank a digital display, and the 10-inch infotainment system mated to a six-speaker setup.

Similar to the Ertiga Hybrid, the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid is outfitted with fabric seats while the shift boot and steering wheel wear leatherette trimmings.

Amid the abundance of hard plastic components, there is still much to be appreciated on the vehicle.

Powertrain

Under the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid’s bonnet is a 1.5-liter four-pot, 16-valve K15B engine with integrated starter generator that, on paper, can generate up to 103 horsepower (hp) and 138 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. The mill is paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox.

Since it is in mild-hybrid configuration, its electric motor (powered by a .72 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery) can only dish out 2.4 hp and 50 Nm.

The assistance from the electric motor was more evident during the heavy traffic (given that the electric motor provides boost on accelerating the vehicle from standstill, which makes it an ideal option for a daily drive.

Per SPH, the engine —coupled with the engine auto stop start system — helps cut down fuel consumption by as much as 13 percent on city roads. The model was able to achieve a 22.03 kilometer-per-liter rating on highways during an internal testing observed by the Automobile Association of the Philippines.

Technologies

The Suzuki XL7 Hybrid’s strongest suit is the mix of further safety, comfort, and convenience amenities that makes it a true family car. It has a storage space that grows from 153 liters to 803 liters, a movable front armrest, cooling cup holders, 12-volts sockets and a USB port.

The people carrier is also not short on safety features such as hill hold control, electronic stability program, pedestrian injury-mitigation body, and total effective control technology.

Pros, cons

The Suzuki XL7 Hybrid is a good contender in the local MPV division given its P1.252 million-P1.262 million pricing.

It may not have the jumpiest nor the most efficient powertrain in the lot, but a mild-hybrid people hauler is definitely a must-have for Filipino urban dwellers.

Offered in the monotone and two-tone options, the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid can be had at the following colors:

• GLX AT Two-tone: Savanna Ivory Metallic/Cool Black Pearl Metallic and Rising Orange Pearl Metallic/Cool Black Pearl Metallic
• GLX AT Monotone: Magma Gray Metallic, Brave Khaki Pearl, Snow White Pearl

Photos from Jirehl Kent Flores

Also read:

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