Maruti Suzuki XL6 vs Kia Carens: Performance, Features and Price

The Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Kia Carens are three-row MPVs for families with a need for space, comfort and usability. Both the XL6 and Kia Carens are offered as either six or seven seats, but the Kia Carens also features second row captain seats. While both models are available as petrol versions, the Carens also comes with a diesel version powered by a turbo engine and a factory-fitted CNG version. It is a matter of performing, ergonomics, function and expenses.

Performance

The Maruti Suzuki XL6 gets a petrol engine that churns out an estimated 103PS and 136.8Nm of torque in a 1.5-litre capacity. It comes in 5 speed manual and also with 6 speed automatic transmission. CNG is also available as a factory fit, and is available with a manual gearbox. The petrol variant is stated to be capable of up to 20.97km/l (manual) and 20.27km/l (automatic), perfect for everyday family use.

Kia Carens is fitted with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine that generates some 115 PS and another 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine that generates 116 PS and 250 Nm. The availability of the transmission varies by engine and variant. Its diesel engine offers greater torque, which may be beneficial when transporting passengers, or operating on the highways. The Indian variant is also available with a factory-fit CNG option.

If a traditional ‘auto' petrol MPV is your preferred choice, the XL6 is an alternative to consider. The Carens has greater powertrain choice, especially if you are looking for diesel power.

Features: Safety and Comfort

The XL6's cabin has six seats including captain seats in the second row and a third seating bank foldable to offer additional accessory space when required. Features vary based on variant, but include 7-inch touchscreen, ventilated front seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, and automatic climate control and a 360-degree camera. It might also be easier to handle because it doesn't require as much room as the Carens does.

The Kia Carens' 6- and 7-seat configurations offer greater flexibility for larger families. It has an 8-inch touch screen on some models, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rear AC vents, sliding/reclining second row seats, and a one-touch system to open the third row. More variants are offered for extra comfort and technology.

The two models share six airbags, with the Carens also specifying electronic stability control and all-wheel disc brakes. Availability of each feature differs by variant, so please check the specific variant prior to purchase.

Price

Maruti Suzuki XL6 is offered at an ex-showroom price of around ₹11.62 to ₹14.42 lakh. It is more expensive than the lowest-priced manual transmission model when it comes to petrol automatic models.

Kia Carens petrol starts from around ₹11.12 lakh (ex-showroom) and varies from engine, seating configuration to variant. There's also a CNG variant in the showroom. Prices and availability are subject to change; buyers are advised to check with a local dealership for the most current information.

Want to know the features of XL6? Click here

Conclusion

The Maruti Suzuki XL6 is worth considering for those who want a six-seat MPV, petrol automatic option and handy driving aids. If families require 7 seats, more engine options or the power of a diesel, the Kia Carens will be an appropriate choice.

It is determined by a number of seats, a driving environment, and features offered in the selected variant.