Suzuki's Unique Crossover Conceals More Than Just a New Look | Carscoops

      Eight years after its initial launch, the XBee receives a comprehensive overhaul featuring new styling, technological enhancements, and a mild-hybrid engine.

      Suzuki has updated the XBee with a redesigned front end and improved interior details.

      It adopts a mild-hybrid 1.2-liter engine and CVT from the Swift.

      Prices commence at ¥2,157,100 ($14,700), with an optional four-wheel drive available.

      Compact cars with vibrant personalities often do not receive much attention during their mid-life updates, but Suzuki ensures the XBee makes a statement. This compact city vehicle boasts sharper aesthetics and a more refined interior while maintaining its unique blend of rugged appearance and kei-car dimensions. At its core, the powertrain continues to be a mild-hybrid sourced from the Swift, still offering the optional four-wheel-drive feature.

      The most prominent alteration is the redesigned front, which appears significantly more modern than the model released in 2017. The upright front features semi-circular LED headlights, a narrower grille, and a more prominent bumper. The overall shape remains largely unchanged, although the rear now sports a slightly altered bumper and new taillights with updated LED visuals.

      Trim Variants With Features

      The base MX trim comes with steel wheels covered by hubcaps, while the top-tier MZ is equipped with diamond-cut alloy wheels featuring an X design. Customers can also choose from various single- and two-tone paint options, along with a selection of accessories like decals, bumper trim, and different grille designs.

      Inside, the design is recognizable but includes several key upgrades. A new 7-inch digital instrument cluster is now standard and can be paired with an optional head-up display and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen. Additionally, there is a redesigned steering wheel with paddle shifters and updated air conditioning vents.

      An optional upgrade package includes leather-like inserts on the dashboard and door panels, along with water-resistant upholstery for the seats and ambient LED lighting. Practicality features sliding and reclining rear seats, a stain-resistant cargo floor and seat backs, and ample storage compartments. Available features include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual USB ports.

      The XBee is built on the Heartect platform and features a new mild-hybrid Z12E 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, already utilized in the Solio and Swift models. This engine produces 81 hp (60 kW / 82 PS) and 109 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. While it is less potent than the turbocharged 1.0-liter engine of its predecessor, it is more fuel-efficient and delivers power to either the front wheels (2WD) or all four wheels (4WD) through a CVT transmission.

      Enhanced Driving Experience and Additional Technology

      The refreshed model is equipped with “active cornering support” to minimize body roll and employs damping adhesives for improved ride comfort. Safety technology has been upgraded as well, with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist now standard. Additionally, the MZ trim features an electric parking brake, Hill Descent Control, Grip Control, along with Snow and Sport driving modes.

      The revamped Suzuki XBee is already available in Japan, with prices starting from ¥2,157,100 ($14,700) for the MX 2WD and rising to ¥2,500,300 ($17,000) for the MZ 4WD, ensuring the compact crossover remains attractive in both style and functionality.