Virus-caused Luzon-wide lockdown notwithstanding, Suzuki Philippines has announced two sure-fire hits in this otherwise crossover-crazy country. One is the seven-seater XL7, which dares tread where the popular Ertiga (also a seven-seat people-mover) fears to go — off road. Not that it’s an outright SUV; the XL7 is the latest member of the fast-growing compact seven-seat front-wheel drive crossover genre that has the style, if not necessarily the capability, of their true 4×4 SUV counterparts.
The other new Suzuki is the subcompact front-wheel drive crossover that’s heaven-sent for those wanting a Suzuki Jimny but don’t need that 4×4’s legendary off-roading prowess and need the easier ingress/egress of a four-door body style. This new cheekily diminutive crossover is called the S-Presso.
“We have seen our customers progress over the years and it is only fitting that we in Suzuki make sure that we are able to provide them with top-notch vehicles which champion the “Suzuki Way of Life!” in their everyday lives. The newest addition to our SUVs, which is the XL7, perfectly fuses exterior aesthetic and dynamic interior with its seating capacity that can accommodate seven passengers. The S-Presso that proudly boasts of the iconic Suzuki SUV design is perfect for our customers who appreciate compact cars that deliver excellent engine performance made to match their needs when it comes to conquering daily challenges on the road,” says Suzuki Philippines vice president and general manager for Automobile Division, Keiichi Suzuki.
Suzuki XL7
The new XL7 is powered by a 1.5-liter engine delivering 103hp and 138Nm of torque. It’s also Suzuki’s most dapper crossover yet with its bold face and front fenders with black garnish that create a bold and robust exterior styling.
Inside, the XL7 boasts flexible seven-pax split-folding seating arrangements with a 199L luggage capacity. Convenience features include rear parking sensor and rear parking camera, advanced multi-information LCD, automatic A/C controls, and keyless push start function. It has a 10-inch infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and even has ventilated cup holders.
Safety is not compromised as it comes with dual airbags backed by ABS with Electric Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
The XL7 is equipped with Suzuki’s new-generation lightweight HEARTECT platform that also results in a quiet drive due to improved NVH performance. With the HEARTECT platform, cabin and luggage area are maximized with the increased available space. The HEARTECT platform also effectively disperses energy during collision for better safety and gives the XL7 high maneuverability.
The XL7 is priced at P1,068,000 and comes in desirable colorways of Brave Khaki and Snow White (both in pearl finish), Magma Gray and Sunrise Orange (in metallic finish).
Suzuki S-Presso
The new S-Presso offers a classic high-riding 4×4 look refurbished with a modern take on the iconic Suzuki SUV design. Completing this hatchback’s classic Suzuki SUV look is the distinct lamp design and signature C design tail lamps complemented by strong character lines and bold grille.
The S-Presso is powered by a fuel-efficient yet energetic 1.0-liter engine (mated to a five-speed manual transmission) that can take the S-Presso on long drives or over different terrains. The S-Presso’s spacious interior makes it able for the driver and passengers to have ample space without sacrificing the luggage capacity which can accommodate 239 liters of luggage space.
Driver and passengers will experience a commanding view with the S-Presso’s high-seating position. Its amenities include cupholders and storage spaces for bottles, A/C with heater, and front power windows.
The S-Presso features Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) body, which spreads collision energy across the vehicle frame to minimize impact forces on the passengers. Other safety features include dual airbags, Rear Parking Assist, and ABS.
The S-presso is priced at P518,000 and is available in Sizzle Orange, Fire Red, Metallic Granite Gray, and Metallic Silky Silver.