Amid its decision to hike prices of all its car models, auto giant Maruti Suzuki has opened bookings for the latest facelift of its premium XL6 multi-purposes vehicle (MPV) via its NEXA channels. The new XL6 promises all features, including engine, advanced transmission, comfort, and convenience features.

Shashank Srivastava, senior executive director (marketing and sales), Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “The XL6 is a unique proposition that perfectly marries a strong SUV-like design and the convenience of a spacious 6-seater MPV."

The XL6 facelift is powered by K-series 1.5L dual jet, dual VVT engine with progressive smart hybrid technology.

CV Raman, chief technical officer (engineering), Maruti Suzuki said XL6 facelift is a product that matches customers’ demands. He said it is a testament to the company’s commitment to bring the newest technologies to its customers.

The company has set ₹11,000 as booking amount for those planning to buy XL6 facelift via its NEXA showrooms or by logging in on NEXA website.

The 6-seater XL6 facelift will be available at all 410 NEXA showrooms across the country. The other models of Maruti's NEXA dealerships are Ciaz, Baleno, Ignis, XL6 and S-Cross.

The XL6 facelift promises a comfortable driving experience. It has sporty SUV-like styling on the inside and all-white Quad LED headlamps with LED DRLs and sporty design elements in its exterior. Leather upholstery and stone-finish garnish, captain seats in the second row promise comfort. The XL6 facelift sports K-series 1.5L dual jet petrol engine, automatic transmission and the progressive smart hybrid technology, which boost car performance while ensuring fuel efficiency.

Introduced first with Maruti Vitara in global markets, the K15C engine in XL6 facelift is an upgrade from previous XL6, which sported 1.5-litre K15B dualjet petrol motor. Maruti's XL6 facelift and Ertiga, both will compete against South Korean major Hyundai's Kia Carens.

Maruti hikes prices

Maruti Suzuki has also decided to increase prices of its entire model range due to rise in various input costs. Maruti has said the price hike will be implemented from this month and will vary for different car models. The company said the cost of its vehicles continue to be adversely impacted due to increase in various input costs. it is imperative for the company to pass on some impact of the above additional costs to customers through a price hike, it said, adding that from April, 2022, it'll hike prices for all its models.

From January 2021 to March 2022, Maruti had increased prices of its car models by around 8.8%, primarily due to an increase in input costs. Maruti’s decision to hike prices follows similar moves by competitors like Tata Motors and Hyundai. The rise in input costs and shortage of key components like semiconductors have forced major auto companies to raise prices to balance out their business dynamics.