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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  XL-7 Great for the Price - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By rs - May 24 - 11:40 pm

  This vehicle is great for the price. The third row seat is tight but comes in handy when you need to fit the whole family. The OEM tires have to go.

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  OK for the money. - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Fred Fein - April 14 - 3:06 am

  Good SUV for the money. Liked 3rd seat compared to cost of other SUVs. But have had problems with seal at waterpump, dealer fixed twice. Lousy MPG - no better than 15-16 mpg. And terrible defroster !! And crummy tires. Dunlops, just about bald at 20K.

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  love my suzuki - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By FAL - April 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2003 suzuki XL7 3years ago and I love it. It has gotten me through a really tough winter 2009 in MD. My only problem is that my CD player just stopped working my friend who also has the XL7 had the same problem with her CD player and a CD got stuck in hers. I was able to get my CD out but it just doesnt play at all. Other than that I love it, It has an automatic starter (not sure who added that but it is a plus) I would buy another one...but hope this one last a long time.

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  Check It Out - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By grntd22 - March 25 - 11:30 am

  The Suzuki XL-7 is a great SUV. It would be much better though if they offered more power and towing capacity. the 2.7 liter engine is too weak.

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  I LOVE MY ZUKI - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By keit parsons - March 17 - 1:16 pm

  I talked to the service department at my dealership.I asked them what car they have the least problems with.They all said hands down XL-7.So thats what i bought; the only thing it goes to the shop for is oil changes.Thats why ive owned three....

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  Nice SUV - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By gee - April 17 - 2:00 am

  only 5,000 miles, so far so go.

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  Not bad for the price !!! - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Sal Ferro - April 13 - 2:00 am

  This little SUV handles it own. For the price the features are outstanding. I have a third row seat whichs is great for kids , but a little cramped for the adults on long trips. The soft plastic they use for the visors is too filmsy and not long enough to block the sun when you use it for side use. Overall this SUV is worth the price and has enough room to spare and using the 4 Wheel drive is fun. Oh !! I do have one issue that I am too lazy to go to get fixed, is that sometimes the radio LEDS go dim in the daylight whichs makes it hard to see the station and clock. One day I will have the issue addressed when I have time to go to the dealer.

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  2004 XL-7 - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By bb - April 7 - 11:46 am

  We have owned our Suzuki XL-7 for 1 1/2 years. The reason I bought it was the warranty, the design, and the trade in deal they gave me. It feels very solid and handles well, I am 6 feet tall and there is a lot of headroom. I think the XL-7 could be a bit longer, but it is adeqaute with smaller kids. We have the 3rd row seat which is very tight. If the SUV was a foot longer the 3rd row would be a bit more pratical. We bought out XL-7 with 6,000 miles on it for $20000, $15,000 with our trade. The dealer gave me $5,000 for a 1994 Ford Explorer Limited with 99,000 miles on it. My wife likes the size of the XL-7 and finds it easy to navigate. She feels safe driving in snow with the 4WD.

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  Good Family Vehicle - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Wanda - November 9 - 1:46 pm

  My XL-7 is a great family Vehicle. Its small enough to park anywhere yet roomy enough to fit 7 comfortably with room for storage. I highly recommend this inexpensive SUV for the price conscious consumer.

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  Great SUV for the Money - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Tabitha335 - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Great vehicle for the money. Ive owned my XL-7 for one year and have put 20,000 miles on it. No complaints and havent had any problems. Comfortable car on the road and great off road capabilities as well. The V-6 is small but adequate.