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 Little Car - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By Suzuki XL-7 4DR - October 9 - 5:53 am

  I test drove almost every SUV made including the Navigator, Escalade, and Lexus. The XL-7 doesnt have the luxury of these SUVs but for the money, it surpassed all the others that we tried. It handles well and rides fairly comfortably, although the gas mileage could be better. Blind spots where the backseat headrests and the spare tire cover are can cause problems at times. All in all Ive no problems with performance AND Ive gotten quite a few compliments on the body style also. This would be a great business vehicle!

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  XL7 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By wolf6275 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  We have had some trouble with the keyless entry system 2 times and the door alignment. The biggest problem was the tires are already toast. They didnt last long. Other than that smooth sailing.

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  First three months - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
  By Ray Suryadinata - May 9 - 12:33 pm

  We bought the car in 2007 and got an end of year discount on this 2006. The 2007 is bigger with larger engine and built in Canada. But this 2006 is the last import to Canada still made 100% in Japan. True the 2006 is less spacious than the 2007, but the 2006 seems to be built more solidly and has better standard features. Just came back from 1000 km trip. The highway mileage was pretty good, better than expected considering still in break-in period. We havent used all seven seatings, but had six people several times and smallish adults in the third seat row had no complaints.

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  handles nice - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By coleman - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a month ago and pleased with the overall ride and handling of the XL 7. Needed a larger SUV with more features. Would recommend.

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  XL-7 Great Little Truck - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Dep02 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had no problems with this truck. It has performed flawlessly.it has REAL 4wd. Great in snow. 19mpg. The only defect I encountered was that the timing chain cover was installed with prc instead of a gasket. It seeps a little oil. I was called at home by the dealer as a courtesy and informed of the problem. It is covered by the warranty.

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  Listen to owners not reviewers - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By Luka - February 3 - 10:00 am

  The reviewers seem to have a bias against the XL7. Many of their criticisms are accurate, but of little significance if you are purchasing this vehicle based on needs rather than on how it stacks up against a Lexus or BMW car-ute. This is a little truck that will tow 3000 pounds and handle much more rigorous terrain than the AWD "car-utes". Im stepping down from a 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser with 210,000 mi. This was the ONLY little ute to meet my criteria between a mix of true truck-like utility and durability and on road manners and economy. Check your needs, not the reviews...and see what owners think of this totally under appreciated vehicle.

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  Into the Unknown - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By paul rush - January 27 - 8:40 am

  We originally owned a 1995 Suzuki Wagon 4WD and liked it very much, with the exception of slightly uncomfortable seats. We now have an XL-7 with all the toys including steering wheel radio controls and heated leather seats. We are recieving 20 mpg out of its V6 engine. The 95 Suzuki would give us 23 mpg with a 4-cyl. We find the seats in our new XL-7 comfortable. I think this car will hold up.

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  Very nice and affordable - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By ZUKI FAN - December 19 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is very nice for the price.I havent experience any problems with it,although it was recalled twice. Mpg has been about 18, and maintenace routine.I love the interior and features.I have the five seater limited so, I really enjoy the flat load floor.

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  2003 XL-7 - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Brownybros - December 5 - 2:00 am

  It feels very strong and mobile. It takes turns very well and the drive seat is comfortable and roomy.

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  Not Enough Horsepower - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By Johnny Vero - November 17 - 4:50 pm

  I own an 05 XL-7. I like everything about the truck except, the gas millage is not good, considering that its a V6 with under 200 HP. It only gets 17 mpg city and 21 hwy. Also, it should come standard with a luggage rack, but does not. Other than that, its a good truck for the money.