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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  XL7 - Fun, Reliable, Economical! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By carjam - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Our XL7 Touring 4WD had approximately 11,000 miles on it when we purchased it. It is extremely fun to drive, very economical and has presented few problems. There is a recurring "rattle" because the hood adjustment keeps getting loose and the front passenger seatbelt malfunctioned and was replaced, but other than that - no problems. It would be nice if Suzuki would make the seats a little more comfortable, too. It is easy to park, corners very well and is easy to control in windy, storm conditions. The moonroof opens easily for just a little ventilation, or for a more "open-air" experience. A very fun, reliable and economical vehicle overall.

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  The best unknown SUV - Mid range - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By myn4now - December 26 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is exceptional especially trim and fit. Power is in hurt considering it is a 6cy. but miles have been reasonably good. comfort and luxury not expected. overall great buy and a real sleeper for under 30K it has it all.

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  Versitlile Car - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Calbay7 - December 9 - 10:00 am

  this is a dependeble and versitile car the seats hurt your back if you do not get the leather option. But overall, solid transpoetation and a great value

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  Cool - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By US Family Robinson - December 9 - 6:33 am

  We traded our truck, which was roomy, powerful, and comfy for our xl-7. The truck also stayed thirsty not to mention the warranty was long gone. The Suzuki had all the things we were looking for and then some. We went shopping on the basis of warranty and service foremost. We tried the Kiabut the Suzuki won out with more room. We also got the 3rd row seat. The suzuki is just overloaded with options that came with it standard, where others, these cost a consumer extra. I agree that the seating in the XL-7 is cramped, but we knew this from the get go and we love that we can fold the seats down for cargo space. Our XL-7 isnt very old but we love it.

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  After 45,000 kms - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Ray Suryadinata - December 4 - 12:10 pm

  Car is still going strong. No engine issues, no accessories issues. Interior trim issue related to the 2nd passenger seat handle covers. Both sides came off and replaced under warranty. Carpeting in the third row seat area came off (kids inadvertently kicked them off). It turned out the carpet was not glued or fixed permanently but only inserted under the seat and held by Velcro fasteners. The third seats have been used quite frequently and are bearable for adults during short trips. Other than that the winter driving is super. In spite of 4 inches of snow, no need for winter tires as the 4WD system made the all-season tires still adequate.

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  deserves more credit - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By jon or michelle - December 3 - 10:00 am

  This is a really nice suv, we really like the quality feel of the car and what specs you get for your $$$ think it would sell 100 times as many of these if it had a toyota or honda badge with the same features and same price. people cant look past that suzuki badge!! There loss!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  XL-7 review - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By lara - November 12 - 2:10 pm

  I am so disappointed with this vehicle. The third row is too small for even my children to fit comfortably. The car has electrical problems, the keyless entry doesnt work, my interior light and headlights go out frequently and need to be replaced. I have had problems with my brakes (I dont know if its the car or the place that keeps fixing them).

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  Awesome Buy! - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Sara - November 8 - 10:36 pm

  I researched many midsized SUVs before choosing the Suzuki XL-7. The selling point for me was all the options for the small price. I would have easily paid at least $7,000 more for a Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. We also have a 92 Suzuki Swift that has never given us any problems, so this was an easy decision for us. I drove it in the rain for the first time yesterday and it handled quite well. I didnt feel that safety in my previous car. We are going to Lake Tahoe for Christmas and cannot wait to use the 4 wheel drive. We have no problems manuvering this SUV in busy parking lots and tight spots. We are verrry satisfied with our new "Zuke"

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  Reliable Suzuki XL-7 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Linda F. Burgos - October 21 - 3:00 pm

  My 2001 Suzuki XL-7 is a good vehicle for taking kids from Point A to Point B. I have never had a single mechanical problem. The four wheel drive is excellent. And, I like the versatility of the third row seat. However, better quality interior materials would be nice to consider as a future improvement. My son frequently rested his feet on the rear passenger seat when he was a toddler so that the pocket on the back seat ripped open. In my opinion, for a car that is marketed to moms with kids, the seat ripped a little too easily. And, the plastic trim around the sunroof has an annoying habit of coming loose. Despite these minor issues, it is a solid car.

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  Excellent SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Cold War Vet - October 18 - 2:53 am

  I live in an area were temperatures fall below -40 and the roads look more like horse trails because of its body on frame design it handles the punishment with ease. It has yet to get stuck in snow or on off road terrain. The build quality is superb.