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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  luv the little ute - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By pickemup - June 21 - 10:00 am

  So far we are very happy with our purchase. The limited has all the creature comforts. Leather is very comfortable. Once you figure out the seats they are easy to use. It is easy to drive and the interior is well thought out. IT is great looking too. Gas mileage so far (just under 1000 miles) is not great. Less than 15 mpg.

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  Luv My XL-7 - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By pam - June 7 - 8:20 pm

  We bought my XL-7 used it had 60,770 miles on it. My husband wanted to get me a better vehicle for my 40 mile commute. I love it. I never really thought I would like a utility vehicle but this one has surprised me. Corners well easy to handle and I can see out all around. Great little truck. I would highly recommend it to anyone that needs a 4X4 and it sports plenty of room and a third row seat for my grandchildren. My teenage daughter even likes to drive it. Very stylish looking and I would definitely buy another one. Best vehicle I have ever owned and I have had quite a few.

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  Great car for family and sports - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Max - May 9 - 1:56 am

  In 2005 we decided to buy the XL7 used, 6000 miles on it looking new and for a great price, way lower than a new one wouldve cost. It was a dealers test drive car. Since weve got it nothing wrong happened. I have done the brakes on it at 30000 and costed $70.00 It gives average 18 to 22 MPG combined HWY and City. Regular gas is just fine. Very resistent, reliable and confortable.4WD is wonderfull when needed. Long trips are nice and smoth. The features from manufacture are great. My wife gets complements from all her friends, her car looks Young...they say. Very good car for the price. Low cost to keep mechanicaly. Looks better and runs better now that is paid for!

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  Love My XL7 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By irelandives - April 27 - 2:00 am

  Only complaint about the vehicle is the cupholders are inconvienient. Runs like a dream has gone everywhere without difficulty. The dealership, Bob Lewis in San Jose, ripped me off big time with the lease and have been a really awful dealership in many respects... dont go there, get it somewhere else.

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  Nice Ride - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By markcarpenter34 - April 27 - 2:00 am

  Really nice looking vehicle. Priced with the RAV4, but looks and feels more like a 4Runner. The interior could have used a little more thought. The radio is mounted low on the dash, and the third row should just be folded down, because no one could sit back there. Excellent service on vehicle so far.

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  Never miss the beat - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By jay-jay - April 17 - 10:00 am

  still going strong, not even a single concern to make a trip back to the dealer. A real pleasure to drive.

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  My Second XL-7 - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By gary wells - March 18 - 1:26 am

  I love the fact that my XL-7 has a full frame and that the engine has plenty of power for the city and the highway. The interior is very user friendly. I love my 6 disc CD changer with subwoofer. this truck has a large cargo area and the passenger seats can be made into a chaise lounge by removing the head rest and sliding the seat forward and reclining it back.

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  Great car - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By dfrasure - January 18 - 2:07 pm

  I bought this on an impulse and have not been disappointed. I love this inside ans out. I have yet to find any problems.

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  youll be surprised - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By leb526475 - January 9 - 2:00 am

  this car is affordable, reliable and worth every penny. youll be impressed with the interior design. i love mine

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  You can not find a better value in a SUV - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Jeremy - January 3 - 6:10 pm

  I actually did not plan on buying this vehicle when I visited the dealership. I sat in one on the showroom floor and was amazed. Our other vehicle is a 2003 Ford Explorer Limited and for a mere $9000 less the XL-7 blows it away. The only option missing is power seats. Fuel economy is a little lower on the highway than rated but most of my travel is above 70 mph. Overall it is a quiet smooth ride. There are no options on the EX version, everything is standard.