The Suzuki XL7 Hybrid is one of the vehicles we hoped to see last year. It’s essentially the more rugged-looking Ertiga with higher ground clearance, SUV styling, seating for 7, and an electrified powertrain.

In Southeast Asia, the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid has already made its way to Indonesia as of June last year. Some regulatory approvals hinted at its upcoming arrival in the country, but the official launch of the refreshed (and hybrid-assisted) XL7 did not materialize in 2023.

While things did not seem to go to plan for Suzuki Philippines last year, it looks like the XL7 is still set to be offered in the country. The 7-seater sporty MPV has been homologated in the Land Transportation Office, but there’s a catch – it’s not classified as a hybrid.

As we all know, the XL7 shares the Ertiga’s 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that’s assisted by an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a 12V lithium-ion battery pack for better fuel efficiency. With this setup, the XL7 basically qualifies as a mild hybrid.

However, since the XL7 is not capable of propelling its driven wheels with the starter generator alone, it’s unable to meet the requirements stipulated under the EVIDA law to classify it as a hybrid vehicle. Hence, the classification in the LTO reflects the XL7 as a motor vehicle with a gasoline engine.

As a result, the XL7 could arrive in the country with a bit more premium on its asking price when compared to the Ertiga. But hopefully, we won’t have to wait longer for the XL7’s launch. For now, Suzuki Philippines has been quiet regarding the XL7. But if we were to take a guess, the launch could take place at this year’s MIAS.