Maruti NEXA XL6

Expert Review by Maxabout

Overview

The Maruti Nexa XL6 has been a default choice in the entry-level premium MPV area for the past few years, but with the entrance of fresh competition as the Kia Carens, an upgrade for the XL6 has appeared. The new Maruti Nexa XL6 isn't a generation change, but in the face of fresh competition, it gets a redesigned engine, an all-new gearbox, new features, a new-age connection, and some nips and tucks both inside and out. With this modification, the new XL6 maintains its role as a practical family mover with a hint of premium feel.

Maruti Nexa XL6 Design and Style

The design modifications are slight, but they help the XL6 look more premium and appealing. LED headlamps and fog lights remain unchanged, as does the front bumper. The grille is brand new as it now has a hexagonal mesh pattern and a bolder centre chrome strip than before.

The addition of larger 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels is the most visible alteration in profile. They not only fill the wheel arches nicely, but they also offer the XL6 a more balanced posture. A reworked front fender to fit the wider wheels and blacked-out B and C pillars are among the other alterations. At the back, there's a new roof-mounted spoiler, shark fin antenna, chrome strip on the boot lid, and stylish smoked tail lamps.

The upgraded XL6 weighs somewhat more than the previous model. Unfortunately, it is not because of structural upgrades to improve safety. The weight has increased because of the more advanced engine, which adds roughly 15 kg, and the larger 16-inch wheels, which add another 5 kg. If you go with the automatic transmission, you'll gain 15 kg because the new gearbox has two extra ratios.

Maruti Nexa XL6 Engine and Gearbox

2023 Maruti Nexa XL6's K15 engine now has a C in its name because of the update replacing B. This C comes with two injectors per cylinder and dual variable valve timing, while Maruti's mild-hybrid with start-stop function remains. It is available with a five-speed manual transmission, while an all-new 6-speed torque converter imported from Suzuki globally has replaced the original 4-speed automatic. This new gearbox weighs 15 kg more than the previous four-speed and has paddle shifters, a first for Nexa. Both manual and automatic engines produce the maximum power of 101.6 HP and 136.8 Nm of peak torque.

The old 4-speed automatic strained the engine since it took a long time to upshift because of fewer gear ratios; driving the new automatic is a lot more stress-free experience. Because the engine is spinning at a comfortable speed, the gearbox upshifts early. It not only provides for a more comfortable trip, but it should also significantly enhance fuel efficiency.

Maruti Nexa XL6 Suspension, Brakes and Tyres

Maruti has changed the suspension arrangement of the new XL6 to handle the newer engine and extra weight. At modest speeds, the ride is remarkably absorbing. It plods nicely over broken areas while keeping the occupants calm. Even over speed bumps, there is little vertical movement. Take it up on the highway, and the ride stays level, with only a few quirks to contend with. It also feels planted at triple-digit speeds. The ride height has also increased slightly because of the larger 16-inch wheels.

This update also improved the steering wheel's ability to return, which now goes over three and a quarter turns lock-to-lock. The steering of the new XL6 is light at low speeds, even at faster speeds. It remains relatively predictable and linear past the dead centre, and with the maintained weight. The XL6's brakes were likewise satisfactory for both daily driving and highway outings.

Interior and Instrument Console of Maruti Nexa XL6

The only changes on the inside are the new touchscreen interface and the ventilated seats. Maruti's new 7-inch SmartPlay Pro infotainment system has linked car technology with over 40+ features, a 360-degree parking camera system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB connectivity. The instrument cluster also contains an electronic multi-trip meter, a digital clock, a digital odometer, an outdoor temperature display, a driving experience control eco, and a climate control system.

The rest of the cabin remains unchanged and does not appear dated from when it was first released a few years ago. The all-black cabin has a good mix of materials and textures, and the overall material quality should endure the test of time. In terms of comfort, the XL6 continues to excel. The front two rows are spacious and comfy, and the seats are supportive as well. The cabin of the XL6 is also quite useful, with enough storage space for all three rows.

Key Features of Maruti Nexa XL6

2023 Maruti Nexa XL6 now features ventilated front seats that work flawlessly, and Maruti has also incorporated a 360-degree camera. The camera resolution is adequate, although the stream is a little distorted. It aids in parking in congested areas. The XL6 also has LED automatic headlamps, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen system, a 360-degree camera, cruise control, connected car technology, tilt and telescopic steering change, and automatic climate control.

Maruti offers four airbags, ISOFIX child anchorage points, an electronic stability programme, and Hill hold from the base model. However, we believe that Maruti should have included six airbags at least as an option.

Top Speed and Mileage of Maruti Nexa XL6

The claimed mileage of the new Maruti XL6 is 20.97 km/l and the top speed is 170 km/h (user claimed). Maruti XL6 can speed up from 0 to 100 km/h within approximately 14 seconds.

Maruti Nexa XL6 Colour Options

Maruti offers new XL6 in 9 different colour options: Arctic White, Opulent Red, Brave Khaki, Grandeur Grey, Nexa Blue, Splendid Silver, Opulent Red With Midnight Black Roof, Splendid Silver With Midnight Black Roof and Brave Khaki With Midnight Black Roof.

Maruti Nexa XL6 Competitors

Kia Carens, Tata Safari, Mahindra Bolero, Mahindra Marazzo, Mahindra XUV700, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Innova Crysta, MG Hector Plus, BYD Auto E6 Electric are the top competitors for Maruti Nexa XL6.

Conclusion

Overall, some characteristics of the new XL6, such as the interior quality or lack of wow features, or the engine's average highway performance, do not justify the price rise. However, there are many advantages in terms of safety and comfort features, as well as fuel economy. Extensive improvements are in the refinement department, where the new XL6 feels a lot plusher and premium to travel in thanks to a quieter engine and greater sound insulation. The new 6-speed automatic transmission also performs admirably, making the XL6 an excellent city commuter. Overall, most changes in the new XL6 are subtle, but they all add together to make the XL6 a more well-rounded package than before.