Overview & Reviews

The original Suzuki XL-7 was designed to appeal to people who liked the idea of having seven-passenger seating in an SUV but didn't want the hassles and expense of owning a full-size sport utility. By taking an extended-wheelbase version of its Grand Vitara small SUV and installing a third-row seat, Suzuki pioneered a concept, and indeed many other manufacturers have been doing the same with their smaller SUVs. Unfortunately, the first XL-7 was neat in theory but flawed in execution. Its third-row seat was too small to be of any real use and its aging truck-based design, claustrophobic cabin and poor-quality interior pieces relegated it to bit-player status among a growing and increasingly refined field of midsize contenders.

Fortunately, Suzuki made amends with a completely redesigned second-generation midsize XL7. (Note the name XL7; it was changed from XL-7 starting in 2007.) The largest Suzuki ever, the new model was 10 inches longer and 2 inches wider than before. Designed for the North American market, the most recent Suzuki XL7 was based on partner GM's midsize crossover SUV platform, which meant it bore some mechanical resemblance to vehicles like the Chevy Equinox.

Compared to the old model, this XL7 certainly looked and worked much better overall, with improved ride and agility, a smoother, more powerful Suzuki-built V6 engine and roomier, more comfortable passenger accommodations. The third row, however, was still obviously meant for children only, like others in this class. All seemed for naught, however, as the XL7 was discontinued after the 2009 model year, resulting from a lack of demand.

Most Recent Suzuki XL7

The second-generation Suzuki XL7 debuted for 2007. Notably, the XL7 was sold with a five-speed automatic and optional third-row seat through the 2008 model year. The Suzuki XL7 was a well-equipped, seven-passenger midsize crossover SUV available in three trim levels: Premium, Luxury and Limited. All models were available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Motivation was provided by a Suzuki-built 3.6-liter V6 providing 252 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Standard on all models was a six-speed automatic transmission.

The last Suzuki XL7 was the largest, most comfortable Suzuki SUV ever built, with a spacious, functional and refined interior. The second-row 60/40-split seats tumbled forward for easy access to the third row, or folded completely flat. The 50/50-split-folding third-row seat could also be folded flat as well for additional cargo-carrying room.

Included was a long list of standard features, including alloy wheels, security alarm, automatic climate control, privacy glass, rear air-conditioning and a six-speaker CD stereo. The loaded Luxury trim level added leather, wood accents and heated front seats. To this, the Limited piled on foglamps, a rear spoiler, a standard third-row seat and satellite-radio-ready audio with navigation and DVD entertainment. These electronic features and controls were sourced from Suzuki's then-partner General Motors.

In reviews, we found that the XL7's unibody chassis provided a carlike ride and good reflexes on the pavement. The engine was powerful, handling was secure and maneuverability was good enough to ply the crowded streets for weekend errands. The model's main weakness was that it didn't feel as refined in terms of ride quality, steering precision and engine smoothness as some other midsize crossover SUVs. If you're looking for a spacious family crossover for a bargain price, a used XL7 may be a good choice.

Past Suzuki XL-7 Models

Suzuki introduced the first-generation XL-7 in 2001. At the time, it was the first SUV in its class to offer a third-row seat for a price starting under $20,000. Based on the Grand Vitara, this XL-7 had a trucklike, body-on-frame construction and either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. These rugged underpinnings made the XL-7 fairly competent for off-road use.

The model's optional third-row seat was of dubious value. There was plenty of luggage room with the rearmost seat folded down, but when the third row was in use, cargo capacity was very limited. Also, the mechanism to drop the third-row seating was fussy and awkward. The third row didn't fold completely flat and created "canyons" into which items could fall.

All models of the Suzuki XL-7 were equipped with a 170-hp, 2.7-liter engine matched to either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. In reviews of the time, we noted that we liked the availability of a third-row seat and the vehicle's reasonable price. However, we felt that it didn't match up well to the competition in terms of refinement or maximum off-road ability.

Changes to the first-generation Suzuki XL-7 were minimal. In 2002, power was increased to 183 hp and antilock brakes became optional.

User Reviews:

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  2006 XL7 My first SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Allisha - January 17 - 8:53 pm

  I just bought my XL7 less than a year ago, and the single CD player doesnt work, I have had my rotors "shaved" 2x, and my brake pads are completely wore down, and I am a very light braker! Im confused with the OD button on the side of my shifter. This was the last car on the lot that I saw but once I jumped in, I knew I wanted it. Not a big fan of the wood trim in the car, but it does have style and thats what grabbed my attention. The gas is gone quite fast, but overall I would definitely buy another one although Im having so many issues with this one. Its very reliable, and I trust the strength having my kids inside. I have filled this truck up with lots of people and lots of boxes.

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  suzuli xl 7 201 lease - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By alan burda - December 17 - 2:00 am

  good reliable trusk leased it in oct 2000 its a 2001 model not one problem has 16,000 miles now got me out of snow conditions with no problem

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  93k and still going - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Tom - December 7 - 7:26 pm

  Clock turned 93k and still going. 5 speed manual tranny and still same clutch. Love the truck, takes a beating and still ticking. Live in NYC, bad roads etc. Still solid. Blew a wheel bearing at 90k (bad roads) quick repair cheap (not at the dealer). Too bad they had to ruin it with the 08 models. They had a good SUV at a good price. Hope mine lasts another 5 years.

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  sturdy,fun suv - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By paula k - December 6 - 10:00 am

  this is a sturdy, well equipped VERY comfortable SUV. Drives like a car, but very Safe feeling on highway. Good gas mileage for a heavy truck. Most comfortable seats (I have a bad back)I have found anywhere. Cant find a better deal for the money anywhere.

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  Love my XL-7 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Love My XL-7 - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my XL-7 2 years now. I bought it to give me more room for hauling things, or for camping, etc. I was unsure about leaving my nice and reliable Honda Accord behind. But, I have been impressed and pleased overall with this vehicle. It is versatile, comfortable, and gives good overall performance. It is a great value for the money given all the standard features. And, it is nice to have a vehicle that isnt like every other one on the road. I consistently get better fuel economy than posted-- about 21mpg mixed/24mpg highway. It may be utilitarian and simple for some people, but thats why I like it.

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  XL-7 - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By KLH - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Handles the road sharp. Turns on a dime. Rides good.

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  Good Review - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Paulie D - June 3 - 2:00 am

  All around good midsize SUV

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  Alternative to Explorer & Highlander - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By beanezuelan - March 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car for young families (w/kids 0 to five) that, for whatever reason, do not want to buy a minivan. I honestly believe that if you want/can compromise on a few features, its a great value. When doing my research I was comparing this vehicle with Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander. When you throw in all the features included in the XL-7s EX III package and compare with these other two, you are getting a lot more for your money. One item people asked me a lot about was engine hp, I find the 185 hp V6 engine is adequate. You have to realize that this car is about 650 lbs lighter than a Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer, which comes w/std. 210 hp V6.

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  Nice Truck/Terrible Manufacturer Support - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By grangt - January 21 - 11:16 pm

  Dropped truck off on 01/30 for a 4-hour job. Its now 02/20 and still no truck because the shop cant get the parts delivered. Szuki has not established any method to get parts to shops quickly. Obviously, Suzuki is not interested in making sure their few customers are happy after purchase. Unless you have a fleet of cars for back-ups in case your Suzuki needs work, DO NOT buy one. Suzuki has a decent product, but needing transportation on a daily basis, will never purchase another Suzuki.