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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  Womans view point - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By C Porter - June 4 - 7:26 am

  I enjoy how it handles and the interior storage for five person seating. I was very pleased with the space and comfort on long trips. The seats are firm, providing good support for the legs, seat and back on short as well as distance trips. I was pleased with braking in emergency conditions.

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  Pearl White XL7 Limited - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Captain Wade - May 17 - 10:00 am

  With 5800 miles under my belt I have to say the XL7 is a great car. I have the Limited package that makes the car look like a $40K SUV. Everyone laughs when I tell them its a Suzuki, they dont believe itme Full leather, sun roof power everything. And the extra room the XL has is great. I just brought home two 60 inch beches for my boat. One in the cargo area and on on the roof with the optional racks attached. Let me see a RAV4 or even the new KIA pull that one off. And 7 seats to beet! The longer wheel base really helps the ride a well. Definately worth a second look. Captain Wade

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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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  great off roader - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By keith parsons - March 23 - 2:00 am

  this suv has great horse power great off road handling.looks great you guys dont give much credit to this suv.this guys are building good cars.you give good reviews to the tracker but not the vitara.come its the same car lol

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  A very good buy in more ways then one! - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Nadia Adams - February 26 - 6:56 am

  My husband and I are Jeep lovers, when we met we both had Suzuki Samaris. We spent the last 2 years looking for the best vehicle to upgrade with. But after our son came along we were even more anxious on finding a dependable and secure Jeep to transport our bundle of joy. We stubbled across a pearl white XL7, after the test drive we were sold not to mention that it was in great condition and had low mileage. It looks good but when we have family outtings & picnics it accomdates everything from bodies to bags! My husband has even taken the Jeep filled with friends on an island tour of our country Barbados and every passenger was so comfortable during the ride they feel at intervals!

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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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  Excellent Vehicle except for gas mileage - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By schnack72 - February 8 - 2:00 am

  I was a skeptic of buying foreign vehicles, but the Suzuki XL-7 has won me over. This vehicle is fun to drive, handles well and is very reliable.

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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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  A Bargain SUV! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By 4-2n8-1 - December 25 - 2:00 am

  Its a delight to drive. Takes curves and turns crisply with no front end plowing. Power train excellent with added horsepower. Gas mileage advertised at 18-20 mpg, but at less than 1,000 miles on the odometer weve been averaging 22 mpg driving city and mountain Haleakala National Park). The 3rd row passenger seating was one of the selling points and though a bit tight, its handy in a pinch (no pun intended) for carrying our visiting friends on Maui. We like the keyless entry where on click opens only the drivers door and two clicks, all other doors. We are extremely satisfied with our purchase.

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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.