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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  great buy - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By terryand tony - November 5 - 2:00 am

  one of the best vehicle i have owned.

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  Yeah baby! - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By bigmalik - October 17 - 10:00 am

  We purchased a fully-loaded XL-7 / Touring 4WD (show car, which had 7,000 miles on it). Got it at a really reasonable price. Nice on the road. Not really a gas drinker. Very fun to drive! Interested if Suzuki will ever make a soft-top version?! LOL!

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  Nice family SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By sam - October 7 - 4:26 pm

  I have used Toyota vehicles till now. We were reluctant to buy Suzuki. But when we compared Highlander to Suzuki, the price won and we decided to try Suzuki XL-7. XL-7 has still not disappointed us at all. It has been reliable, no troubles at all. So far satisfied with its performance. We used it to tow when we recently moved and it was great. Nice SUV.

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  Excellent value - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Jonas - July 29 - 2:00 am

  I am very impressed thusfar with my vehicle. I previously owned a Toyota 4Runner and am quite happy with the Suzuki. The extra seat is wonderful for a growing family. I would like it a little wider but can live with it. However, I would not buy from Empire Suzuki in Montclair, CA. I encountered several problems with their dealership and dealing with these problems via their purported customer service was a most unpleasant and caustic experience. Fortunately, the vehicle makes up for it.

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  Better than expected - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Andrew Y - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Cheapest 7 seater SUV you can buy. It is actually a lot better than in most reviews. 3rd row seat is a bit tight but you can move the 2nd row seat forward while 2nd row being not too crammed. OK ride comfort but a little bumpy. Braking even with ABS could be improved (when compared with a sedan). I highly recommend the 2002 Touring model which comes with almost everything but alarm. Get the rear cargo net option. If you dont like SUVs but need an inexpensive 4WD wagon that seats 7, get this.

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  WELL EQUIPED FOR THE MONEY - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By ROBERTC - June 11 - 2:00 am

  EXTREMELY WELL EQUIPED FOR THE DOLLARS VERY NICE RIDE AND HANDLING. WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO ALL MY FRIEND AND NEIGHBORS.LUXURY VEHICLE WITH A SMALL PRICE TO PAY,I LOVE MY SUZUKI

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  First SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By xl7 - May 30 - 1:30 pm

  I recently purchased my Suzuki XL-7 to pull my boat and move large items. I never owned an SUV before and was reluctant at first. However, after doing my research, I found the XL-7 to be the best buy on the market. It feels big yet is very responsive and easy to park in the city. It pulled my boat with plenty of power to spare. I love the fit and finish and it compared well to my Honda when it comes to quality and workmanship. I love the XL-7, it surpassed my expectations hands down.

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  nice job - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By arn - May 25 - 2:00 am

  a litt le under power but thats about it fun too drive

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  My experience with my XL7 - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By John Lowe - May 14 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle is peppy and fun to drive it turns well and handles like a sport car. the suspension is solid and feels tough the transmission is smooth and quick. Great car great price!

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  A nice surprise - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By tetra - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Purchased used with 16000 miles. Very pleased with interior comfort and storage. Good power from the V6 and automatic. Ours is 4 wheel drive. Runs smooth and quiet. Seats are comfortable quiet interior. Versatel 3rd seat, rear air cond. Good looks. Solid and good build quality. A vehicle to review when purchasing another vehicle.