A misty morning drive through the winding roads of Lonavala, the kind that makes you fall in love with road trips all over again. I was at the wheel of the 2025 Maruti Suzuki XL7, and even on those tricky curves, the car glided like a dream. In the back, my photographer and his assistant sat comfortably chatting in the third row—no cramping or squishing here! That moment summed up what the XL7 is all about: space, comfort, and practicality, designed with real families in mind.
What Makes the XL7 a Game-Changer?
The XL7 isn’t just another 7-seater—it’s a solution to every family’s wishlist. After winning hearts in Southeast Asia, this beauty has arrived in India, perfectly tweaked to match our unique needs. Over two weeks, I tested it in all kinds of scenarios—from Mumbai’s chaotic streets to serene hill stations and airport runs with extended family—and here’s the lowdown.
Striking Design That Says It All
Let’s talk about the looks first. The XL7 manages to blend SUV ruggedness with family-friendly vibes effortlessly. The bold hexagonal grille and sleek LED headlamps give it a confident face, while the slightly raised hood hints at its capability. It’s stylish but doesn’t scream for attention—just the right amount of sophistication.
What impressed me most was how well it’s designed for functionality:
- The long 2,740mm wheelbase ensures plenty of interior space.
- A smartly designed roofline keeps headroom intact, even for third-row passengers.
- The wide taillights and low tailgate make loading and unloading a breeze.
And those colors! My test model came in “Celestial Bronze,” which hides dust beautifully, but there are other fantastic options like “Auburn Red” if you want something flashier.
Roomy Interiors You’ll Fall in Love With
This is where the XL7 really shines. Inside, it’s all about maximizing space and comfort without overcomplicating things.
What’s to love?
- Real 7-Seater Comfort: Adults can actually sit in the third row without feeling like sardines.
- Flexible Second Row: Slide, recline, or split it 60:40 to fit both people and luggage comfortably.
- Smart Storage Everywhere: From door pockets that fit 1-liter bottles to a cooled glovebox for drinks.
- Massive Cargo Space: Need to move a house? Almost feels like you could with 1,680 liters of space when the seats are folded down!
Smooth Drives, Incredible Mileage
Under the hood is Maruti’s trusty 1.5L petrol engine, paired with their smart hybrid tech. No, it won’t win drag races, but it’s got plenty of power for everyday family adventures. Plus, the mileage is a standout: 17.5 km/l, which is excellent for a car this size.
Whether you’re driving through traffic or cruising on highways, the XL7 handles everything with ease. The ride is super comfy, even on bumpy Indian roads, and the light steering makes parking a breeze.
Technology That Keeps Everyone Happy
Maruti has stepped up its tech game with the XL7. The 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen on higher trims is your command center, offering:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Built-in navigation and Bluetooth streaming.
- Easy-to-use controls that don’t distract you from driving.
For safety, the XL7 comes loaded with ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags, so you can drive with peace of mind.
Why the XL7 Should Be Your Next Family Car
The XL7 is more than just a car—it’s your family’s new adventure buddy. From its practical design to impressive mileage and modern features, it ticks all the right boxes. Whether you’re a city dweller, a road trip enthusiast, or both, this car will make your life so much easier.
So, are you ready to take the wheel?