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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  Nice - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By mrwagner - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Bought the car last month. Test drove Element, Tribute, and Forester. The XL- 7 was all around much nicer to drive and had many more features for about the same price or less. Interior is nicer than our Audi. Have also previously owned a Trooper, Cherokee, and Tahoe and though smaller the XL-7 handles better and is queiter than any of those hogs.

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  upgrade - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By jafm50 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  It has a big turning radius. That is the only negative. It handles well and the fuel economy and acceleration are acceptable. Excellent cockpit design, radio and cruise controls are on the steering wheel. Leather is nice and comfortable. It is fun to drive.

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  Great SUV at a great price - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By snjlovin2run - January 24 - 10:00 am

  In the XL7, I got the small SUV I wanted and we still have 7 seats for emergencies, although you do have to adjust the 2nd and 3rd row just right to make everyone comfy.The XL7 is on a sturdy truck frame and has a real and simple manual 4wd system.The engine is not a power dynamo but adequate and very smooth with the liquid filled engine mounts and 32 valve config.The engine using a timing chain instead of a belt also appealed to me. Gas mileage is better than expected, getting 22-23 on the open road and 18-19 in city driving.It is simple and practicle in engineering and design but comes with a host of standard features.

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  My Suzi has proven herself. - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By woody2009 - January 16 - 8:32 pm

  I just bought my suziki recently, used. I loved the looks of it and the 4x4 was what I really needed because I live in a flood area. It proved itself this past week when I came across a flooded road going home one night going home from work. It didnt look that deep but by the time I was half way thru the water was coming over the hood. It never lost power or traction. I passed a car stuck half way thru and the looks on their faces was priceless as they watched me drive (or possibly floating) by. I was scared but the adrenalin rush when I made it to the end was priceless. Had a little water in the passenger floor board. Other than that ALL DRY!!

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  Most for my money - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Chad Underly - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I have not had to take my Suzuiki back to the dealer since the day I drove it off the lot. I love the v-6 engine and the ample cargo space. My only regret is not paying a little more for the optional 3rd row seat and rear a/c...the trucks standard a/c can barely keep up on hot summer days.

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  Suzuki - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By teresad0906 - January 11 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is a great deal for the price. We purchased ours in August 2003 and have enjoyed every minute of it! It is dependable and such an attractive vehicle.

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  best suv for the money - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Charlibear63 - December 31 - 10:00 am

  We owned a 2003 lxiii 2 wheel drive and traded for the 04 4 wd and the difference is noticable. Seems to have better handling and the ABS brakes are a plus. Great interior and better fuel economy thanks to the new 5 speed automatic. keep up the good work Suzuki;-)

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  Great deal and good truck - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By 8ballball - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I live in Toronto. It is a snow country. I need a SUV for safety arround a year. I pick XL7 because it has a good price($34000 CAD). The real 4X4, seating comforable and redesigned the interior and it look good. Outstanding SUV in this price!!!

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  Great SUV for the price & safe! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By photolab1921 - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I searched for months to find an SUV with high safety ratings, comes with many options and a low price. This was it! I compared this SUV with the Toyota RAV-4, Jeep Liberty, & Ford Escape to find this was the best deal and a safe vehicle, unlike some of the above. I have not been dissappointed yet! I love this SUV. Its exactly what I wanted and expected.

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  A Very Fun-tional Vehicle - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By boscoblair - December 17 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is an excellent, exciting alternative to a minivan for morning carpool, especially with elementary schoolers. Second-graders are able to work the 7-passenger seating mechanisms fine, and fight over doing so! Seating is exceptionally comfortable for 4 adults, and it works fine for 5-child transport... all behind the front row. So far Ive enjoyed this vehicle as much as or more than as any that Ive owned, including several Toyotas, a BMW, a Nissan, an Isuzu, Chevys, a couple of Fords and our current Honda Odessey.