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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  Its fun to drive - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Don - September 24 - 1:40 am

  My 2005 Suzuki XL-7 is fun to drive. It has good handling in city traffic. The drivers seat is not made for long drives though. Wind noise over 65 MPH makes the radio useless. Also, they used too much cheap plastic in the interior. It has easy entry and I like the door handles, which work well. I like the looks of the vehicle too. The engine really makes noise (runs fast) when started in cold weather and this continues until it is warmed up. I had this issue checked out and supposedly thats the way the engine is on all models.

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  8 YEARS AND NOT ONE REPAIR.... - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By et2011 - August 15 - 1:05 am

  8 YEARS AND NOT ONE REPAIR....I have had this SUV since 2003 - I have not had one repair other than wear and tear items like breaks, wipers, bulbs, and oil changes. This SUV has been the BEST car ever. Its 4WD gets you through the tough winters...the only thing the SUV lacks is the comfort and luxury. It now has $122K on it...I am ready for something new....I wish the new ones had a comfortable seat...and came standard with more of the luxury items...

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  Harolds XL& - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Harold Rood - June 16 - 12:20 am

  For the most part my ownership experience has been very positive. Second Suzuki that we have owned, had such good luck with first one that we went back for another. Folding 2nd row rear seats a little cumbersome and dont fold as flat as I would like. My vehicle does not have 3rd row seating, so I cant comment on those. Comfortable to drive and has relatively good performance.

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  Give it a chance! XL7 may work for you. - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By unsolctedadviz - April 2 - 1:01 pm

  We got a great deal on 06 XL7 in 2010 with 37K miles as a 00 200K Honda Odyssey replacement. Wanted another, but Toyotas/Hondas too pricey even with 100K. The XL7 sounds and drives like a truck--worse than a car or minivan. Poor acceleration and gas mileage, averaging a paltry 17 city, 20 hwy. But so far, it has been bulletproof in terms of reliability at 72K miles. No problems whatsoever. With kids 11, 8, 7, we can still shoehorn 1-2 of them in the fold-down 3rd row. Long trips we flip down 1 side of 3rd row and take plenty of luggage. Vehicle is horrible in snow. 2-whl drive was a big mistake. Needs quality snow tires in winter. Buy a 4x4. Missing minivan, but XL7 is next best..

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  XL7 - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Jen Conlin - February 20 - 10:00 am

  This is the best ride Ive ever been in. I enjoy the fact that I feel like Im riding on air. I barely feel the bumps on the road, the engine is quiet and I enjoy the comfort that the vehicle provides.

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  fun 4x4 - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By LIDiver - December 27 - 2:00 am

  The car has adequate acceleration. Good braking. The side opening rear door is a plus for me. Gas mileage is typical for a 4x4 vehicle. Interior room is good. Drivers seat has adequate adjustment to make the driving comfortable. All in a it is a good purchase and fun to drive.

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  Love It! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Sinjin - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a multitude of 4x4s over the years, but overall find my XL-7 one of the very best values. It may not be the fastest, most off-road worthy, get the best gas mileage, or draw the most looks but it has never let me down, even during -15 degree Colorado winters. You wont go wrong, but keep in mind it is not a $50k vehicle, so dont expect one.

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By rey - December 20 - 1:10 pm

  I purchased my Suzuki Grand Vitara Xl-7 brand new in 2003.. I depend quite a bit on my vehicle for work and require a reliable vehicle that I know I can count on. this vehicle has been a great find and has surpassed my expectations. with over 100,000 miles I have yet to invest in any repairs or huge maintenance costs. good quality vehicle that you know you can count on for many years to come.

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  All good but the 4wd - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By giraffedan - December 11 - 3:49 pm

  It is overall very reliable, and works well. Power wen I need it, fuel efficient for its size when i baby it. 4wd on the other hand failed. My mom complained about the 4wd for years and mechanics said thats just how suzuki 4wds work. I finally brought it to the Suzuki dealership where they said the same thing. i asked them to just take a look. Their senior mechanic said he has never seen a 4wd fall apart like that. He said it would cost at least $800 just to take it apart and see what is wrong. Only other complaint is that the belt they used is too skinny so it squeaks every morning if it is under 40 degrees. If the 4wd still worked it would be a perfect car. Suggestions would be great

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  A terrific SUV at a bargain price - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By thunderofzion - September 10 - 8:06 pm

  A good looking, reliable, inexpensive, fun-to-drive SUV (with the 5 speed).