Exciting promos await early buyers of the all-new XL7 and S-Presso

It used to be that “subcompact” meant cheap, stripped-to-the-basics vehicle model whose only attraction was price. That kind of subcompact is almost extinct as most of those available these days come standard with a host of advanced features and surprising levels of refinement.

In fact, these small, zippy vehicles are making great gains in popularity here in the Philippines because they fit perfectly in the country’s numerous narrow streets and tight parking spaces. No wonder Suzuki Philippines—the Japanese automaker that specializes in the manufacture and sale of compact vehicles in the country—ended 2019 with a 21.17 percent overall sales increase, enough for the brand to be included among the Philippines’ five best selling auto brands that year.

In 2020, Suzuki Philippines is aiming for a similar sales feat as it prepares to launch the All-New S-Presso subcompact hatch and the All-New XL7 subcompact SUV this March.

First revealed in India (by Maruti Suzuki) last October, the All-New S-Presso is not just a cute ride for five. At 3.565 meters long, 1.52m wide, 1.549m high and with a wheelbase of 2.38m long, this P518,000 ride will be Suzuki PH’s most affordable as it replaces the venerable subcompact hatch, the Alto.

The Alto replacement is not only bigger in size but more powerful: the K10B gasoline engine powering the All-New S-Presso is rated to produce a maximum 67 horsepower and 90 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission will be the only option at the moment.

Mini SUV stance

The All-New S-Presso impresses with mini-SUV stance: its twin-chamber headlights flanking an aggressive-looking four-slot grill fascia pair well to a prominent chin (the bumper area). Its upright posture plus 180mm ground clearance, bold claddings all around and almost vertical pillars complete the All-New S-Presso’s tough appearance.

Inside, the driver would definitely enjoy the All-New S-Presso’s high driving position that not only provides a great view of the traffic in front, but also helps when it comes to spotting pedestrians, cyclists and obstacles, especially when parking. Its uniquely positioned instrument cluster—located at the center of the dashboard just above the 7-inch infotainment system and air-con switches —gives the All-New S-Presso a youthful and funky interior vibe.

The S-Presso, while compact in size, benefits from Suzuki’s Heartect Platform, a new-generation platform that puts focus on safety as it combines cutting edge design, rigid metal strength and impact-absorbing body structure. At the same time, it offers better stability and control for enhanced driving performance and fuel efficiency. Apart from the driver and front passenger airbags, the S-Presso is already equipped with ABS with EBD system.

Suzuki PH informs that those who will make early reservation until March 8, 2020, will be able to enjoy the promo that gives the customer a P15,000 discount and a low down payment of P5,000.

7-seater SUV-like packaging

Joining the All-New S-Presso introduction in the Philippines is the All-New XL7, which is a baby-size crossover from the Japanese automaker. Revealed during the 50th anniversary of Suzuki in Indonesia last February, the All-New XL7, a seven-seater ride, is set to challenge the market dominance of Honda BR-V, Mitsubishi Xpander, and Toyota Rush.

While it shares platform with the Ertiga, the XL7 is longer by 55mm at 4.45m, wider by 40mm at 1.775m, and taller by 20m at 1.71m. Wheelbase remains the same at 2.74m but gains an additional 20mm ground clearance at 200mm, perfect for navigating the country’s uneven road surfaces.

Suzuki seemed to have perfected this concept of designing SUV-inspired ride at a size and price package that would appeal to many car buyers. At P1.068 million, buyers of the All-New XL7 would even get a P30,000 discount if they reserve until March 18, 2020. Moreover, a P5,000 minimum down payment is also available.

Powered by 1.5-liter K15B gasoline engine—the same one installed in the Ertiga and the Jimny—and mated to a 4-speed automatic gearbox, the All-New XL7 generates a maximum 103hp and 138 Nm torque. Considering how this engine performs in the other two Suzuki models, one could be assured of the same reliability and efficiency in the All-New XL7.

Suzuki designers succeeded in making the All-New XL7 more upmarket than the Ertiga, thanks to its sharp-looking quad chamber LED reflector headlamps that flank a muscular front grille featuring dual silver horizontal slats, black accented fog lamp housing and faux skid plate.

Inside, the All-New XL7 is decked with dark gray and black interior trim. Luggage space is not a problem with its 153-liter capacity, which could be expanded to take in several more bags or even a mountain bike if one folds the third and second row seats.

Underpinning the All-New XL7 is a fifth-generation Suzuki Heartect platform that boast of having 39 percent high-strength steel in the monocoque body. Combine this with dual airbags and ABS with EBD, the All-New XL7 should be regarded as one of the safest compact rides in the market today.

Visit any of the 77 Suzuki dealerships nationwide to know more about the All-New S-Presso and All-New XL7. Visit www.suzuki.com.ph for more details.