The rumoured Maruti Ertiga Cross has been spied completely undisguised for the first time. Apparently, it has been named 'Maruti XL6' and it will be launched as a separate model, not a Maruti Ertiga derivative. Those remembering Maruti Suzuki's history in India won't find the XL6 name that new. The 7-seat second-gen Grand Vitara that was sold here early last decade was also called 'XL-7'. The 'XL6' gets its name for the 6-seater configuration it will offer.

Looking from the rear, there's no doubt that the Maruti XL6 is a Maruti Ertiga-based model. It has a unique front fascia with a black hexagonal grille featuring twin chrome slats that stretch outwards to meet the LED DRL of the differently designed headlamps, a chunkier bumper, repositioned fog lamps and a faux skid plate. On the sides, the black cladding in the lower body along with the silver garnish in the rocker panels, and the silver roof rails are aimed at making the XL6 look more rugged than the Ertiga. The black alloy wheels are in the same design as those of the donor model. At the rear, the only changes are the distinctive bumper that has a more muscular appeal to it and a faux skid plate.


On the inside, the Maruti XL6 will likely have an all-black theme. The key differentiator here will be the two captain seats in the middle row. The key interior features may include leather upholstery and the new SmartPlay Studio infotainment system as well. Under the hood, the K15 SMART HYBRID petrol engine which in its current BS-IV configuration delivers 104.6 PS at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm at 4,400 rpm in the Maruti Ertiga should be standard. This unit comes mated to a 5-speed MT or a 4-speed AT, and delivers a fuel efficiency rating of 19.34 km/l (MT)/18.69 km/l (AT) in the donor model.

Maruti Suzuki sells the Ertiga through the Arena dealerships. As the XL6 will be a premium product, Maruti Suzuki will sell it through the NEXA dealerships.