Eight years after its debut, the XBee benefits from a comprehensive facelift including styling and tech upgrades along with a new mild-hybrid engine
Suzuki has given the quirky little XBee a mid-lifecycle refresh, with sharper styling and a nicer cabin. The Japanese city car retains the playful mix of crossover ruggedness and kei-inspired proportions, coming with a Swift-sourced mild-hybrid powertrain and a 4WD option.
The most noticeable change is the redesigned front end, which looks more modern compared to its predecessor that was introduced in 2017. The upright nose features semi-circular LED headlights, a slimmer grille, and a chunkier bumper. The profile remains largely unchanged, while the rear end benefits from a slightly revised bumper and new LED graphics for the taillights.
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The entry-level MX trim rides on steel wheels with hubcaps, while the flagship MZ upgrades to diamond-cut alloy wheels with an X motif. Buyers can also pick from a wide selection of single- and two-tone color schemes, as well as optional accessories like decals, bumper garnish, and alternative grille patterns.
Inside, the layout is familiar but there are a few notable upgrades. A new 7-inch digital instrument cluster is fitted as standard and can be combined with an available head-up display and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen. There is also a new steering wheel with paddle shifters and redesigned A/C vents.
An optional upgrade package adds leather-style inserts on the dashboard and door cards, alongside water-repellent upholstery for the seats and LED interior lighting. Practicality remains a priority with sliding and reclining rear seats, a stain-resistance luggage floor and seat backs, plenty of cubbies and underfloor storage. Equipment can include heated seats, heated steering wheel, and two USB ports.
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The XBee rides on the Heartect architecture and is fitted with a new mild-hybrid Z12E 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine already found in the Solio and Swift. The mill generates 81 hp (60 kW / 82 PS) and 109 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. It is less powerful but more efficient compared to the turbo 1.0-liter unit of its predecessor and sends power to either the front (2WD) or all four wheels (4WD) via a CVT gearbox.
The facelifted model benefits from “active cornering support” to reduce body roll and damping adhesives for improved ride quality. Safety equipment has also been upgraded, with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist fitted as standard. Furthermore, the MZ trim is equipped with an electric parking brake, Hill Descent Control, Grip control, Snow, and Sport modes.
The facelifted Suzuki XBee is now available to order in Japan. Pricing starts from ¥2,157,100 ($14,700) for the entry-level MX 2WD and tops out at ¥2,500,300 ($17,000) for the flagship MZ 4WD.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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