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:
Showing 61 through 70 of 310.00-
Cool - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
By US Family Robinson - December 9 - 6:33 amWe traded our truck, which was roomy, powerful, and comfy for our xl-7. The truck also stayed thirsty not to mention the warranty was long gone. The Suzuki had all the things we were looking for and then some. We went shopping on the basis of warranty and service foremost. We tried the Kiabut the Suzuki won out with more room. We also got the 3rd row seat. The suzuki is just overloaded with options that came with it standard, where others, these cost a consumer extra. I agree that the seating in the XL-7 is cramped, but we knew this from the get go and we love that we can fold the seats down for cargo space. Our XL-7 isnt very old but we love it.
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Awesome Buy! - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
By Sara - November 8 - 10:36 pmI researched many midsized SUVs before choosing the Suzuki XL-7. The selling point for me was all the options for the small price. I would have easily paid at least $7,000 more for a Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. We also have a 92 Suzuki Swift that has never given us any problems, so this was an easy decision for us. I drove it in the rain for the first time yesterday and it handled quite well. I didnt feel that safety in my previous car. We are going to Lake Tahoe for Christmas and cannot wait to use the 4 wheel drive. We have no problems manuvering this SUV in busy parking lots and tight spots. We are verrry satisfied with our new "Zuke"
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Reliable Suzuki XL-7 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
By Linda F. Burgos - October 21 - 3:00 pmMy 2001 Suzuki XL-7 is a good vehicle for taking kids from Point A to Point B. I have never had a single mechanical problem. The four wheel drive is excellent. And, I like the versatility of the third row seat. However, better quality interior materials would be nice to consider as a future improvement. My son frequently rested his feet on the rear passenger seat when he was a toddler so that the pocket on the back seat ripped open. In my opinion, for a car that is marketed to moms with kids, the seat ripped a little too easily. And, the plastic trim around the sunroof has an annoying habit of coming loose. Despite these minor issues, it is a solid car.
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Excellent SUV - 2006 Suzuki XL-7
By Cold War Vet - October 18 - 2:53 amI live in an area were temperatures fall below -40 and the roads look more like horse trails because of its body on frame design it handles the punishment with ease. It has yet to get stuck in snow or on off road terrain. The build quality is superb.
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confort car - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By danmar37 - September 14 - 2:00 amwe rented a similar car for our trip to San diego, a we loved it, after a few month we decided to buy a new xl7 4x4.
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02 XL7 - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By gbt - August 14 - 10:00 amI have a 02, not a 03. Handles great. My last two SUVs were Jeep Grand Cherokees. Jeep obviously roomier but XL7 handles much better and fun to drive.
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A Great SUV - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
By Pefbear - July 28 - 10:00 amA Great SUV.....Surprise Surprise, Suzuki has done it with this SUV. All the options with a price second to none.Bertera in West Springfield hooked me up BIG. I cant wait for the 2005 to come out so I can buy a new one....GREAT JOB SUZUKI!!
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Zuki for 6 - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
By patman - July 19 - 2:00 amWe bought this as an alternative to a minivan and large SUVs. We have been very happy with it. We use it to run around town with our 4 kids, friends, and all their stuff, and it works great. We have also taken it on trips, and it travels better than we expected.
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OUTSTANDING VALUE - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By matt67man - June 27 - 2:00 amI Purchased my Suzuki at Al Packer Suzuki in West Palm Beach Florida. Great people no pressure agreed to terms quickly. I disagree with the reviews comparing this vehcile to a honda CRV. In my case I compared it to a Honda Pilot. Very Close in almost ever catagory with the exception the Honda had a Power seat. In the end I did not see where the Honda was worth $6000 more. Would highly recomend this vehicle
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perfect - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
By andy dubitsky - June 15 - 10:00 amWe have 4 children, ages 2-10 with one on the way.. My wife doesnt want to drive a tank, I dont want to pay for one... Our solution??? THE XL-7.. The interior is perfect for our family. It seats all of us comfortably without making us feel like we should be paid $0.36 a mile and be home on weekends. It came with all the features we wanted, 4 wheel drive, pwr windows, locks, mirrors, and numerous cupholders. The engine pulls strongly all the way to the redline..
