Maruti XL7 Launches In India – A Bold New Challenger To Innova…
Maruti Suzuki has launched its much-awaited XL7 in the Indian market, and it’s already turning heads. Positioned as a more premium and rugged version of the XL6, the Maruti XL7 aims to offer the space and comfort of an MPV with the bold styling of an SUV. What’s more, it enters a space where it may challenge even the Toyota Innova, especially for buyers looking for a stylish and feature-packed 7-seater family car at a more accessible price.
With a strong road presence, upgraded interiors, and modern technology, the XL7 is designed to meet the growing needs of Indian families who want space, mileage, and comfort—all in one package. Let’s take a closer look at what the Maruti XL7 offers.
Overview Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Maruti Suzuki XL7 |
| Segment | 7-Seater MPV with SUV Styling |
| Engine | 1.5L K15C Petrol (Smart Hybrid) |
| Power Output | 103 bhp |
| Torque | 137 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 20.27 km/l (MT), 19.02 km/l (AT) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Price Range | ₹12.50 Lakh to ₹14.50 Lakh (Expected) |
| Main Rivals | Toyota Innova Crysta, Kia Carens, Hyundai Alcazar |
Design & Style
The Maruti XL7 takes design cues from both MPVs and SUVs. It has a more rugged and sporty look than the XL6. The front grille is bold with a thick chrome bar, and the all-LED headlamps and DRLs give it a premium touch. Black cladding around the wheel arches and bumpers adds to its SUV appeal.
The XL7 comes with machine-cut dual-tone alloy wheels, roof rails, and a high ground clearance, which make it look bolder than most MPVs in the segment. At the back, it sports sleek LED tail lamps and a sculpted boot lid that gives the car a neat finish.
Inside, the cabin feels spacious and upmarket. The XL7 uses black and silver tones with red stitching on the seats, giving it a sportier feel compared to the beige interiors of many competitors. It’s available only in a 7-seater layout with captain seats in the middle row, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the XL7 comes with Maruti’s 1.5-litre K15C Dual Jet engine with Smart Hybrid technology. This engine delivers a smooth 103 bhp and 137 Nm of torque, and is known for its reliable and fuel-efficient performance.
The engine is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The automatic version also comes with paddle shifters, which add a sporty feel to the drive. The hybrid system helps in better fuel economy and reduces the load on the engine during city drives.
While it’s not a high-performance machine, the XL7 offers enough power for city traffic and highway cruising. The engine is refined, and the car handles well even when fully loaded.
Ride & Handling
One of the highlights of the XL7 is its comfortable ride quality. Thanks to its long wheelbase and tuned suspension, the car absorbs bumps easily. The captain seats in the second row offer individual armrests and good cushioning, making long journeys very relaxing.
Despite its size, the XL7 feels easy to drive in city conditions, with a light steering and a smooth clutch (in manual). On highways, it remains stable at high speeds, and body roll is well controlled for an MPV.
Braking is sharp, with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The high ground clearance also makes it suitable for rough patches or speed breakers.
Features & Tech
The Maruti XL7 is well-equipped with modern features:
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7-inch SmartPlay Pro infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
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Connected car tech with remote engine start/stop, vehicle tracking, etc.
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Cruise control
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Automatic climate control
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Keyless entry with push-button start
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Rearview camera with parking sensors
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LED headlamps and tail lamps
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Adjustable driver seat and tilt steering
Safety is also covered with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP with Hill Hold, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of the XL7 is its fuel efficiency. The petrol engine, combined with Smart Hybrid tech, offers 20.27 km/l with the manual and 19.02 km/l with the automatic (claimed figures).
For a 7-seater vehicle, these numbers are impressive and will appeal to family buyers looking to save on fuel costs. The 45-litre fuel tank gives it a good range for long trips.
Price & Variants
The XL7 is expected to be priced between ₹12.50 lakh to ₹14.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Maruti is likely to offer it in two to three variants, based on transmission and features.
This places it well below the Toyota Innova Crysta but slightly above the Ertiga and close to the Kia Carens and Hyundai Alcazar in terms of pricing.
FAQs
Q1: Is the XL7 bigger than the XL6?
The XL7 is almost the same in dimensions but looks sportier due to design changes and black cladding.
Q2: Is it better than the Toyota Innova?
The XL7 offers better mileage and lower pricing, but the Innova still leads in engine performance and space. It depends on your budget and needs.
Q3: Can I use it as a daily car?
Yes, the XL7 is designed to be practical for daily commutes as well as family outings.
Q4: Is there a diesel version of the XL7?
No, currently the XL7 is available only with a petrol hybrid engine.
Final Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki XL7 is a smart and stylish option for buyers looking for a family car with the practicality of a 7-seater and the styling of an SUV. It offers a good mix of comfort, features, mileage, and road presence—all at a price that won’t break the bank.
While it may not be as powerful or premium as the Innova, the XL7 stands strong as a modern family vehicle that fits well into Indian roads and wallets. For those who want a balanced MPV that looks bold and drives efficiently, the XL7 is a worthy new contender.