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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  2001 XL-7 Review - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By JENNIFER - March 25 - 6:56 am

  The Suzuki XL-7 is visually cute on the outside. However, the interior is small and compact in all roows of seating. The dash organization is poorly done. The radio is on the bottom of the dash and hard to reach and see, which I think makes it a danger to change stations when driving. As far as the driving of the vechicle, its okay on a perfect day with NO wind. With even the slightest wind, its nearly impossible to handle, for male and especially female adults. Weve even been told we look like drunk drivers and believe me its the car, not our skills.

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  2002 Suzuki XL-7 - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Lorry - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is a fantastic SUV. Not only does she look sleek and classy. Her handling is excellent. Brakes are a little squashy but still are very good when stopping is a must. The back hach opening is a dream. Opening from the side instead of downward, is way better and convenient. The 4wd in bad winter conditions has proven itself to me as the best ive seen yet in handling slushly, slippery roads. All in all it was thee best investment ive ever made!! Suzuki out did themselves with this SUV.

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  second xl-7 - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By vegastom69 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  great suv had a 2001 plus for 2in half years never had a problem,moved to michigan a year ago 1st winter was ok but need a 4 wheel dr and wife wanted auto trans so far the snow is no problem did have to change the tires forn the snow a must for the cold weather.

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  Listen to owners not reviewers - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Luka - February 3 - 10:00 am

  The reviewers seem to have a bias against the XL7. Many of their criticisms are accurate, but of little significance if you are purchasing this vehicle based on needs rather than on how it stacks up against a Lexus or BMW car-ute. This is a little truck that will tow 3000 pounds and handle much more rigorous terrain than the AWD "car-utes". Im stepping down from a 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser with 210,000 mi. This was the ONLY little ute to meet my criteria between a mix of true truck-like utility and durability and on road manners and economy. Check your needs, not the reviews...and see what owners think of this totally under appreciated vehicle.

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  Excellent Value - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By CK - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Our family has had the XL-7 for a month now, and are very pleased with the vehicle. First, it has high value as it provides more features than its competitors do compared to selling price. Second, the exterior styling is pleasing -its lean and clean. Third, the interior is comfortable and the ride is very smooth for a truck. Controls are logically positioned. Lastly, the third row seat is a definate plus. Overall, the quality is very high in all aspects. The XL-7 is a great alternative to a mini-van and is a lot of fun to drive. There is a lot to like about this vehicle compared to what you pay for it.

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  Into the Unknown - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By paul rush - January 27 - 8:40 am

  We originally owned a 1995 Suzuki Wagon 4WD and liked it very much, with the exception of slightly uncomfortable seats. We now have an XL-7 with all the toys including steering wheel radio controls and heated leather seats. We are recieving 20 mpg out of its V6 engine. The 95 Suzuki would give us 23 mpg with a 4-cyl. We find the seats in our new XL-7 comfortable. I think this car will hold up.

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  LOVE IT - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By LuvItSUV - January 27 - 5:56 am

  This vehicle is the best I have ever had. Ive had many other vehicles from various makes and models, but this by far is the BEST.

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  WHAT A GREAT BUY - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Joe Peck - January 11 - 10:00 am

  I had no idea that Suzuki produced such a fine SUV. Any other brand SUV would have cost a lot more green. I have the hard to find Limited and love the detail in every part of the SUV. I belive this should be on any ones list looking for value and quality. I am sold.

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  Very nice and affordable - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By ZUKI FAN - December 19 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is very nice for the price.I havent experience any problems with it,although it was recalled twice. Mpg has been about 18, and maintenace routine.I love the interior and features.I have the five seater limited so, I really enjoy the flat load floor.

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  Reliable All-rounde SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Mike - December 7 - 12:50 pm

  The looks are a bit dated with the Vitara shape. The fuel tank is too small. It has good safety features and the 3rd row is a big bonus. I was never a big fan of the 2001 model. The 2003 shape, with the redesigned front and rear end looks great. The chrome side steps are an improvement over the plastic ones.