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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  Good looking and inexpensive SUV - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Rich C. - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Overall My wife and I are pleased with our XL-7. It handles well and has good pickup for a smaller V-6. We enjoy the CD player, and the A/C works well. I would like to have seen a few more upgrades ,such as a low fuel warning light, door ajar lights (especially since we have a small child), and a power lock switch on the passenger side door. The third rear seat is nice despite that it really only seats children or short adults! We got a good deal on it, especially with the zero interest financing for 5 years. The only problem so far has been the front disc brakes squealing from time to time. We have had them fixed once, but the problem has since reoccured.

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  XL7 - Fun, Reliable, Economical! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By carjam - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Our XL7 Touring 4WD had approximately 11,000 miles on it when we purchased it. It is extremely fun to drive, very economical and has presented few problems. There is a recurring "rattle" because the hood adjustment keeps getting loose and the front passenger seatbelt malfunctioned and was replaced, but other than that - no problems. It would be nice if Suzuki would make the seats a little more comfortable, too. It is easy to park, corners very well and is easy to control in windy, storm conditions. The moonroof opens easily for just a little ventilation, or for a more "open-air" experience. A very fun, reliable and economical vehicle overall.

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  Versitlile Car - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Calbay7 - December 9 - 10:00 am

  this is a dependeble and versitile car the seats hurt your back if you do not get the leather option. But overall, solid transpoetation and a great value

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  After 45,000 kms - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Ray Suryadinata - December 4 - 12:10 pm

  Car is still going strong. No engine issues, no accessories issues. Interior trim issue related to the 2nd passenger seat handle covers. Both sides came off and replaced under warranty. Carpeting in the third row seat area came off (kids inadvertently kicked them off). It turned out the carpet was not glued or fixed permanently but only inserted under the seat and held by Velcro fasteners. The third seats have been used quite frequently and are bearable for adults during short trips. Other than that the winter driving is super. In spite of 4 inches of snow, no need for winter tires as the 4WD system made the all-season tires still adequate.

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  deserves more credit - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By jon or michelle - December 3 - 10:00 am

  This is a really nice suv, we really like the quality feel of the car and what specs you get for your $$$ think it would sell 100 times as many of these if it had a toyota or honda badge with the same features and same price. people cant look past that suzuki badge!! There loss!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Gimme an import! - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Mr.XYZ - October 2 - 10:00 am

  This is the second SUV I have owned. I previously owned a Ford Escape. While the pickup and overall power were better in the Ford, it handled like a dump truck. I was afraid to take a turn for fear of turning over. I intensionally took sharp angled turns at above normal speeds during my test drive. The wheels were glued to the road. I never had the sensation of "holding on for dear life" while attacking the turns. I like the center console instead of the steering column gear shifter. The wood trim is a nice touch. It is also a sharp looking vehicle from the outside. Overall, a quality vehicle ot a reasonable price.

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  Watch out for the air compressor - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By LadyDarya - September 6 - 5:20 am

  My advice is to do serious research on the XL-7. The a/c compressor has a serious habit of freezing up and breaking the drive belt. This is not a cheap fix. I pulled the B04 relay and just went without the a/c. Brakes are not that great and go out frequently and trying to find someone outside the dealership to work on it is not fun! Oh and the 2001 and 2002 models tend to loose their gas door (as in it comes off).

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  A Fine Vehicle Worth A Serious Look - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Angels - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I had been shopping SUVs between some other more well-known brand names, but I eventually decided to purchase a Suziki after my wife and I test drove it. The reasons that convince us to make the purchase are as follows: 1). The engine is significantly quiter than all other SUVs under 35K range we have test driven. 2). The road manner is smooth and comfortable, more car- like. 3). The exterior and interior are satisfactorily decent. 4). Hard- to-beat value for the price you pay. 5). The size of the vehicle is just right for someone who is looking for an SUV that is not too compact neither too bulky.

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  Great City Runner - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Neichnm1 - July 8 - 10:00 am

  The truck is narrow, agile handling, quick off the line making it great for tight spots in crowded places, yet long enough to give plenty of inside room. Not suitable as a long distance cruiser. Seats are too small for long drives, wind noise high at speeds over 65. Fuel tank range limited to 300 miles per fillup.

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  good for us - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By april - May 25 - 6:40 am

  We like our XL7, its good for a small family, not really for seven grown ups. Other then that, I love it. its got 4x4 and does have the extra seating if you need it. Its better for two adults and two kids, than anything else.