Suzuki XL6

You don't need an SUV. You need a Suzuki XL6

Comfort and Tech

There was nothing I missed in the XL6. Many new vehicles (except zhe Germans) come with a raft of features that seem like fun when you first have your hands on them, but fade into obscurity with time. Not so in the XL6. It has everything you need, and nothing you don't.

With the third row of seats stowed away, you have an absolutely cavernous boot, and even with them engaged, there's enough space for luggage for a weekend away.

You've got your wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, aircon, and... well, that's all you really need, no?

If you're a serious audiophile, the sound system is going to let you down, but that's nothing a little trip down the aftermarket fitment centre can't fix.

Same goes for its tiny wheels – I could easily trot down to the fitment centre and grab a set of wider-track 17"s that'll do more justice to the tall, boxy body.

The reality is, the Suzuki XL6 is all the car you need, and if you're looking to buy an SUV for the space, I'd suggest you give this little fighter a good look because it wins hands down on practicality.

With its punchy engine and gearbox, it may surprise you in more ways than one.

Pricing

The Suzuki XL6 currently (October 2025) retails at:

R357,900 for the 1.5l GL manual
R376,900 for the 1.5l GLX manual
R374,900 for the 1.5l GL auto
R393,900 for the 1.5l GLX auto

All engines put out 77kW and 138Nm.

 
Long-term intro: Suzuki XL-6 makes a solid first impression as election work begins

The Suzuki XL-6 aims to bridge the gap between the practical people mover and the more aspirational SUV. In our view, it leans a little more towards the minivan side of the spectrum, but that is arguably its greatest strength.

While it shares its bare bones with the Ertiga, a popular budget people mover, Suzuki has given it a thorough restyle that succeeds in providing a more upscale look and feel without sacrificing practicality.

Suzuki Auto South Africa has lent us a silver XL-6 to assist with our coverage of the upcoming local government elections, and we plan to put it to good use to bring you all the latest news and insights from the ground.

Having spent the past month with it, we are already impressed with the practicality and versatility on offer here.

With a six-seat layout (2+2+2), the XL-6 is certainly family- and business-friendly. The unique configuration allows relatively easy access to the third row, as occupants can slip through the gap, while the middle-row seats also have folding armrests that make for a comfortable journey.

As an average-sized male, I was able to sit comfortably behind my own seating position in all three rows, with marginal but adequate legroom and more than sufficient headroom.

Of course, many more occupants will be putting the Suzuki to the test in the coming months as we shuttle reporters around in the name of election coverage.

With all three rows up, there is still enough space for a good few shopping bags in the split-level boot, and perhaps even a few small tog bags. When you need to load larger items, the rear seats fold almost flat.

 
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