2023 Suzuki XL6

Suzuki XL6

Suzuki’s XL6 finds itself in a strange limbo—bigger than your typical family hatchback, yet not quite roomy or flexible enough to wrestle seven-seater stalwarts like the Toyota Rumion or Kia Carens. It’s aimed at the buyer who’s outgrown a Swift but balks at the idea of a bus-sized MPV clogging up a narrow Joburg driveway. Under the bonnet sits Suzuki’s familiar 1.5-litre petrol, lashed to a 4-speed auto—no manual, no hybrid, no variety. You won’t see a glut of XL6s on local forecourts, either. With just three active listings ranging from R329,900 to R381,900, this is a car you’ll probably have to hunt for. Slow sales and limited stock confirm its niche status. Most buyers will settle on the 1.5 GLX 4AT, which accounts for two of the three listings at R329,900 and R339,900—about as much sense as the range makes in our market. The lone GL 4AT at R381,900 makes no pricing sense at all, being the lesser spec at a premium, so chalk that up to dealer shenanigans or demo quirks. Both used cars are 2024 models, each with only about 12,000 km, so you’re basically getting a new car with a tiny discount. What the XL6 does better than the Rumion is it feels slightly more car-like from behind the wheel, and the cabin isn’t as dreary as you’d expect for the money. If you pack smart and only need the third row on the odd school run, the value case for the XL6 stands up—on paper at least.