Sunbeams In A Storm—The Suzuki XL7 and S-Presso

Having been a motoring journalist for 25 years, being unable to test drive new cars, aside of course from being unable to enjoy simple freedoms like dining out or watching a movie with the family, due to the COVID 19-induced enhanced community quarantine is a life-changer. 

But like all Filipinos, and now most of the world, the only thing we can do is stay home, flatten the curve, and pray for a cure for the virus. We stay positive and look forward to better days ahead.

So many of us are already planning what to do when the virus is eradicated. Needless to say, everyone will be absolutely enjoying their newfound freedoms.

I am no exception. And as a lifelong car enthusiast, I look forward to test driving new cars, particularly two new models from small car specialist, Suzuki. 

Suzuki Philippines had scheduled the unveiling of their all-new XL7 and S-Presso crossovers last March 18 at the Grand Ballroom of Marriott Hotel in Pasay City. But the quarantine took effect on March 15 and the whole Metro Manila, and eventually the whole Luzon, came to a screeching standstill. 

Luzon-wide lockdown notwithstanding, Suzuki has two surefire hits in this crossover-crazy country. The first is the 7-seater XL7, which adds a degree of go-anywhere style to the popular Ertiga (also a 7-seat people-mover). Not that it’s an outright SUV; the XL7 is the latest member of the fast-growing compact 7-seat front-wheel drive crossover genre that has the style, if not necessarily the capability, of a true SUV like Suzuki’s own Jimny.  

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 SUV’s legendary off-roading prowess and require 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 head-turning crossover yet with its bold face and front fenders with black garnish that create a ruggedly handsome exterior styling. 

Inside, the XL7 boasts flexible 7-pax seating with a 199-liter luggage capacity, greatly expandable thanks to the vehicle’s split-folding seating configuration. Convenience features include rear parking sensor and rear parking camera, advanced multi-information LCD, automatic A/C controls, and keyless push start function. The XL7 has a 10-inch infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and even has ventilated cup holders. 

Safety is not compromised as Suzuki’s new flagship 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 responsive 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 sport-utility vehicle 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 5-speed manual transmission) that can take the S-Presso on long drives or over different terrains, thanks also to its generous 180mm ground clearance. The S-Presso’s spacious interior makes it able for the driver and passengers to have ample space without sacrificing cargo 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 and ground clearance. 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 delightfully affordable P518,000 and is available in Sizzle Orange, Fire Red, Metallic Granite Gray, and Metallic Silky Silver.

Worldwide and local COVID numbers may still be bleak as I write this, but the very attainable Suzuki XL7 and S-Presso are two bright rays of sunshine that give this writer, and assuredly many others, hope and a positive outlook. Thank you, Suzuki.