In a world full of SUVs, the MPVs are still playing a crucial role. So, what could be the major reasons behind this massive success? Firstly, pricing any given product aggressively always give you an edge over its rivals. Another important aspect is the gap between sub-four meter SUVs and a full-size seven-seater SUV, which has made MPV a go-to segment.
Too many great options in the market often lead to confusion. Two years back, Maruti Suzuki launched a premium version of Ertiga called XL6. And since the day the carmaker has rolled it out, everyone is baffled if this all-new MPV is worth putting extra money on or not.
Maruti Suzuki XL6
XL6 is definitely a premium MPV and therefore, Maruti Suzuki has decided to retail it from their NEXA channel. Available in two trims, namely – Zeta and Alpha, it comes loaded with almost every other required feature just to help it survive in such a competitive market.
Under the hood, Maruti Suzuki has deployed a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology as standard. As per the spec sheet, this setup is capable of churning out a decent 103BHP and 138Nm of peak torque.
Customers in India are really fond of convenient options. This way, XL6 is available with a 5-speed manual or an automatic gearbox.
Feature-wise, buyers will find a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. For more fun, the infotainment system works in conjunction with a four-speaker and two tweeter audio system. Other features such as large MID, automatic climate control, rear AC vents and cruise control are also a part of the feature’s list.
On the safety front, it comes loaded with dual airbags, ABS, ISOFIX child seat mounts, rear parking sensors, child safety locks and an anti-pinch driver’s window.
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
Call it India’s favourite MPV as Ertiga is still one of the most value for money products by the market leader. Maruti Suzuki understands the requirement of consumers and therefore, the manufacturer has introduced a facelifted model of the same to keep it relevant in today’s world.
Powering the Ertiga is the same 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a mild-hybrid setup. The overall output rated from the setup also stands at 103BHP and 138Nm of peak torque while being paired to either a 5-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. So, what’s different? Well, unlike XL6, Ertiga is also available with a CNG model.
In terms of features, it comes with projector headlamps, automatic climate control, push-button stop-start and ventilated cup holders. Just to make the top-end variants slightly premium, Maruti Suzuki has also decided to offer a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For occupants safety, Ertiga comes equipped with dual airbags, ABS, reverse parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounts, hill hold assist and ESP depending upon the variant.
Comparison: At A Glance
| Maruti Suzuki XL6 | Maruti Suzuki Ertiga | |
| Length (mm) | 4445 | 4395 |
| Width (mm) | 1775 | 1735 |
| Height (mm) | 1700 | 1690 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2740 | 2740 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 180 | 185 |
| Engine | 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol | 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol |
| Power | 103BHP | 103BHP |
| Torque | 138Nm | 138Nm |
| Mileage | Up to 19kmpl | Up to 19kmpl |
| Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs.10.14 Lakhs to Rs.12.02 Lakhs | Rs.8.12 Lakhs to Rs.10.85 Lakhs |
Conclusion
XL6 is basically a premium version of Ertiga with a 6-seater layout. So, just in case, money isn’t a big issue and the six-seater layout will accommodate each and every member of your family then, XL6 is seriously a go-to option any day. Also, people already in or planning to enter the taxi business can definitely go for the more practical Ertiga.