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:
Showing 161 through 170 of 310.00-
Limited - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
By Crig - February 21 - 2:00 amIt Excellent if you have any brains you will invest in this pearl. Its a great buisness move and you will be happ with your descision.Even if you dont have the money Suzuki can fiance anyone.I have no regrets I would have got even if I didnt have the money. This is better than the Durango I know because I have one.
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Very good SUV at a very affordable price - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
By luis - February 1 - 2:26 pmI would recommend this SUV to anybody whos looking for Mid-size SUV at a very affordable price. I own a 2003 Limited with 45000 miles already and havent had a single problem with it. You get a lot of options that would cost you about an extra $10,000 in other models like the Toyota Highlander. There are some inconvenient, lack of room between benches, or a bit noisy once it passes the 50 miles per hou. The 185 HP is not enough either, but its performance in general is very good , considering that the price you pay is in the low 20s . This SUV is been great off road or in the snow, as well as in very wet conditions.
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It just... runs - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
By WiseOne - January 9 - 2:00 amI bought this vehicle b/c I needed a good, reliable one for work travel. I also needed to carry up to 7 people (mostly kids) from time to time. The XL- 7 has delivered on all counts. Its large enough to carry what I need, but not too large to make it hard to park or killer on the gas mileage.
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My Experience in a Suzuki - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By Barney - November 4 - 2:00 amWe as a family drive Saabs and we wanted to make sure we had a deep snow vehicle. We were very impressed with the ride and handling after looking at several other vehicles we felt for the Money this was our best choice.
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Suzuki XL-7 - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By 2004 Suzuki XL-7 - October 16 - 6:03 amThis vehicle needs a wider wheel base and extended flaps on visors to block drivers eyes from sun only. Everything else is great. Maybe a back door that opens away from curb rather then to the curb. The handling is sweet, likes its on clouds. The headlights are remarkably bright. No DVD player tho for the wife n kids??? Honda Odessy has one up on you. Ever consider getting rid of the "7 passenger" title to make more leg room and rear storage?? try it, you might be surprised.
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Long-Term Use Report - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
By SFBay - September 26 - 8:30 amGot my Suzuki XL-7 in 12/01 and still like it today after 53,000 miles. It was the best SUV for the money at the time with its 3rd row seats and REAL part-time 4WD. I commute with it and now after break-in, Im getting 20 mpg, I only got 17 mpg before. My XL-7 feels heavy but still it is still fun and sporty to drive. It did really well at the off-road course I took last year. The only problem I had was a coolant leak which may be the dealers fault. I recommend regular trans/diff fluid changes. And the original tires are lousy, mine were bald at 15,000 miles. Go with Yokohamas, mine are still like new after 30,000 miles. I solved my oil filter access problem by cutting a hole at the wheel well and bolted on an aluminum sheet door. The colored weather strips have all faded.
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2001 XL-7 Plus 4X4 - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
By Frank B. - September 3 - 2:00 amI actually have a 2001 but its virtually the same vehicle. I love this truck...Yes a truck, not an awd car type SUV. Suzuki has been doing it right for many years and The Grand Vitara/XL-7 is one of their finest. The 3rd row of seats sold me! Oh yah, Durango has 7 pass seating but I didnt have $10,000 more and uh, try sitting in the back of one. Love my XL- 7!
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Quality, and much more than you pay for! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
By Yokemate - September 3 - 2:00 amThe leather interior is polished and professional, the ride is quiet and refined, the seven year transferable no deductible power train warranty (3 year bumper to bumper) is outstanding. You dont pay for a bunch of extra doodads. The XL-7 is two inches narrower than the ML 320, and is maneuverable, as a result. The XL-7 is truck based but rides like a car and has a part-time 4x4 capacity, which can be switched to at up to 60 mph. The XL-7 has done quite well in crash tests. The XL-7 has crunch zones, anti- lock brakes, beams in the doors, pretensioners on the seat belts, and second generation air bags. Weve been surprised by the high initial quality.
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I Love My Car! - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
By Joann Ponder - August 21 - 3:43 amI have only had my vehicle for about 1 month but so far it has been my best. I actually enjoy driving again. Would highly recommend to anyone.
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Best Mid-size Suv for the Buck - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
By Stan D. - July 28 - 10:00 amA great SUV that has so much to offer for the price. I also like the piece of mind I get with the 7-year 100,000 mile warranty.
