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 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By wolf6275 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  We have had some trouble with the keyless entry system 2 times and the door alignment. The biggest problem was the tires are already toast. They didnt last long. Other than that smooth sailing.

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  Keeps Going and Going - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Glenn - June 5 - 3:36 pm

  After 155,000 (40% off road) this is a little tank! I have not had one major thing go wrong after almost 5 years of abuse. Its comfortable on the road and plenty of room for 6. It can be towed 4 wheels down with ease. Its funny to see the surprize looks when leave people at a light after pushing the power button. For the price you just cant beat it.

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  Great SUV with lots of features - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By rl - May 30 - 2:00 am

  It has air-conditioning on the back, day-time running light, automatically turn on the light when it is dark, very good gas mileage for a 7-seater. (21 mile per gallon) The best part is the 0% interest on car loan. All new 2002 has 7 year 70,000 miles warranty A great SUV that I highly recommended. 94% of the parts are made in Japan! Very well-built car. I never need to do any repair on this SUV yet

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  SuzukiValue - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By lucky - May 25 - 9:26 pm

  I extremely enjoy the smooth drive of my 4WD Suzuki XL-7 after driving a front wheel drive vehicles for the last 13 years. The vehicle as equipped, with everything is a great package. The sound system is outstanding! I particularly enjoy the heated leather seats. A comparable mid-size competing SUV would have been considerably more expensive. The XL-7 has sufficient power, but cannot compete with the 3.0 engines the competition offers. This vehicle takes me where I want to go comfortably and with all the luxury of a more costly vehicle. Ill forego the power for the luxury.

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  on to alaska - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By tazmania - May 25 - 2:00 am

  traded a chev astro van for this one because i wanted a 4x4 for my trip to alaska.- read more reviews than i can remember, but this car is true to them.- for now have been using it on the back roads of Baja Calif and no complaints.- Expect the gas milage to improve as the engine settles down.- my two fulled sized dogs ( boxers) love it.- the trunk holds all my camping gear and with the side opening door its easy to get to.- What I really like is its is not rounded like the other midsize suvs.- its lines are straight and sleek and it doesnt look oversized.-

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  Let Me Down - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By tlambert - May 20 - 6:26 am

  I am very disappointed with my Suzuki XL-7. At 48,000 miles the air compressor pump/belt went out. It cost $1,600 to replace! I live in Oregon, and only use the A/C 6 weeks of the year!

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  First three months - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Ray Suryadinata - May 9 - 12:33 pm

  We bought the car in 2007 and got an end of year discount on this 2006. The 2007 is bigger with larger engine and built in Canada. But this 2006 is the last import to Canada still made 100% in Japan. True the 2006 is less spacious than the 2007, but the 2006 seems to be built more solidly and has better standard features. Just came back from 1000 km trip. The highway mileage was pretty good, better than expected considering still in break-in period. We havent used all seven seatings, but had six people several times and smallish adults in the third seat row had no complaints.

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  Most Features For Your Money - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By VABeloved - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I was pleasantly surprised with the XL- 7. I was in the market for something bigger for my growing family (previous car 2000 Camry, another EXCELLENT car). I was interested in 3rd row SUVs, but didnt think we could afford one. Heard a radio ad for the XL-7 and decided to check it out even though I was not a big fan of Suzuki. Was very surprised by the smooth ride (husband owns Isuzu Rodeo--ROUGH ride) and the luxurious look and feel of the interior and exterior. Very well loaded for a total price of @ 22K. Gas mileage (main concern for an SUV) is not as bad as you would expect either.

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  handles nice - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By coleman - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a month ago and pleased with the overall ride and handling of the XL 7. Needed a larger SUV with more features. Would recommend.

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  XL-7 Great Little Truck - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Dep02 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had no problems with this truck. It has performed flawlessly.it has REAL 4wd. Great in snow. 19mpg. The only defect I encountered was that the timing chain cover was installed with prc instead of a gasket. It seeps a little oil. I was called at home by the dealer as a courtesy and informed of the problem. It is covered by the warranty.