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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  Worst car to buy - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By just another guy - May 21 - 5:30 am

  I bought this car used with around 17,000 miles on it. It was basically new, it was the worst purchase of my life almost. So many little things go wrong with it. the most recent thing is the cable to pop the hood has broken. AGAIN. this is the second time ive been unable to open the hood. also one of the door ajar sensors is malfunctioning so everytime u hit a bump the interior lights flash on and it dings. gas mileage goes is awful. its a "compact" SUV. its smaller than a mini van and gets worse gas than my truck. for a vehicle that size with a V6 and such little horsepower it should get way better gas mileage. the tire inflation sensor malfunctions too.

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  This SUV is sweet! - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By skaterizme - May 18 - 10:00 am

  I was considering the Santa Fe, then I had eyes on the Highlander but for $5,000 less, beautiful cloth interior, (Highlanders cloth interior was cheap- looking)nice, smooth, quiet test drive, I was very impressed with this SUV. I was also able to get the dealer to go with their listed internet price and purchased this SUV for less than it originally was listed for - it pays to do your homework. If you want a nice, reliable, roomy SUV, test drive the XL- 7 and you too, will be impressed!

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  Nice, reliable SUV. Lots of space. - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By gustavo140 - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Nice, reliable SUV. Lots of space. My wife pushed for it, and I got a pleasant surprise. Highly recommended if you you look for space and your budget is tight.

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  Durable but Needs to have a Better Ride - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Trish - February 15 - 10:10 pm

  I enjoy driving my XL-7 around town but do not like taking it on long trips due to the rough ride. The ride is very bumpy and uncomfortable. I read that the 07 model will have a smoother ride. If thats the case I wouldnt hesitate to consider purchasing one. The price and warranty are good. Its reliability is good. I have not had any problems.

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  Best SUV under $30,000 - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By VC99 - January 27 - 10:00 am

  The high-performance engine. Good location for the filter. 2 timing chains. Smooth, quiet, and comfortable on driving.

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  suzuki xl7 - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By j34half - January 21 - 2:00 am

  I love my XL 7!. Its a fun to drive vehicle.Contrary to the reviews ,I find that my XL 7 has infinite possibities for cargo and passengers. The third row seating converts in a second to flat storage after shopping and changes back to a bench just as quick for toting the kids carpool. Seriously, the 3rd row is cramped for adults but fine for children. Its compromise between storage and extra seating.This is my ninth new car purchase and by far, my favorite.

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  Shotty Air Conditioner Over and Over - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Disappointed - December 15 - 6:36 pm

  I love my car, except that each year the air conditioner goes out. This year I am told the cost is $1,000+ just for the part condenser or compressor?? And it had to have a dual air conditioner. :-( The car is probably not even worth that much. Too bad that the dealer were so bad on fixing this one problem. Other than that, the car has been perfect. Love the fact that the gasoline door is on the passenger side. Its fully loaded and got what I paid for . .no repairs other than regular maintenance-not bad for an 8yr old car. Body and interior in perfect condition still.

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  Seeing problem at 34000 miles - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Al - December 10 - 12:36 am

  Loved the car but starting to have problems oil leaks around timing chain. And fuel leaks drealer fixxed with no problem. They also replace drive leather set covering. 4 years old and problems started. Ive pruchase qite a few new cars in my 60 yrs. I usually keep them for 6 yrs with usualy no motor leaks till the 6 year.

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  A great vehicle - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By happyowner1 - November 20 - 2:00 am

  My family was looking for a SUV which comes with real 4WD so that we might travel on the national sea shore at south Texas. We also like a vehicle that would take more than 5 people because our friends visit us very often. The XL-7 has been running on the sea shore with no problems. The 4-WD and 7 seats feature provides us lots of fun. We are not playing harsh on this vehicle. Our 4WD XL-7 so far handle very well on the muddy road and by the sea shore.

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  So far so good! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Suzifan2003 - November 14 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my XL-7 for 2 months and still am very much in love with it. It is fun to drive, good in turns and after switching to synthetic oil, have been getting 25 mpg on the freeway.