Harsh winter weather brings more of our little MPV’s practicality to the fore as Kyle Kock details how handy the Suzuki XL6 has become to him.
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Time spent: Five of six months
Distance covered: 4 946 km
Average fuel consumption: 7.13 L/100 km
We like:Plenty of space for oversized items
We don’t like: Stability in crosswind a bit suspect
With the CAR long-term fleet currently lacking a bakkie, the XL6 was called upon to assist with moving goods for a fundraiser. Everything from braai wood to plastic patio chairs was transported with the two rear-most seats folded down, and the two in the middle row as low as possible, positioned all the way forward.
Related: Living With It – Suzuki XL6 GLX Manual [Update 4]
The winter spate of stormy weather in the Western Cape, with winds clocking upward of 30 km/h, have conspired with the Suzuki’s high-sided profile and light weight in rendering it vulnerable to crosswinds. This occasional instability made the motorway sections of my daily commute a little less relaxing, but the peppy 1.5-litre engine remains a willing performer.
Related: Living With It – Suzuki XL6 GLX Manual [Update 3]
On a side note, one of the simple comforts I’ve had enjoyed lately was leaving the light switch in the auto position. In the heart of winter, the XL6’s sensors are quite sensitive to the drop in ambient light, and the headlamps are already activated at 17:15.
