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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  My Suzuki - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Rhonda Gordon - April 27 - 10:00 am

  I needed an a new automobile to recieve high mileage and to be able to use on trips or just every life for a running family.

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  Great SUV for the Price - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By bookburner451 - April 23 - 7:26 pm

  I needed a bigger vehicle for family transport. The XL-7 seats 7 (five adults+ 2 kids in the 3rd row) comfortably with luggage. Its great for trips to the grocery store. This truck is fun to drive and looks sharp, but needs to get better gas mileage (17 mpg).

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  NO MORE AMERICAN AUTOS 4 ME - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By mike tess - April 21 - 10:00 am

  after years of putting up with problem after problem with my ford taurus and ford expedition i totally give up with american cars, especially ford! i love this mini suv, a super great value, fully loaded, peppy engine, great looks, drives great, handles well, all around quality. well thought out. and you dont see one every other block

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  Great Deal on a 2004 XL-7 in the Calif. - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By dmgdgc - April 16 - 10:00 am

  We origianlly were going to buy a new 2003 xl-7 because of the 2000 rebate. with loan in hand at 4.89% and knowing we could get the 2003 model for 21,000 after rebate on carsdirect.com. We went to Green Valley Ford Suzuki in Fairfield California(Bay Area).We got a 2004 brand new for 20995 which is unheard of. They also matched our loan and got it at 3.99% Has all electric, cd with subwoofer and tweeters, rear air, seats 7 , mats, allow wheels, automatic w/overdrive, woodgrain interior, heated mirrors, keyless entry, and the 2004 models have a new clear tailights and a hard case for the rear tire.

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  Good deal - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By john - April 3 - 5:16 am

  Handles well and comfortable, 3 years 140000 miles and only have changed oil and brakes, gas mileage is less than expected, body control module quit early on and factory would not cover.

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  Suzuki XL-7 4X4 still running - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By pcabral - April 1 - 10:20 am

  Aside from the breaks, exhaust, tires, tie rods,balljoints and wear and tear items this rig has pulled a 3000 lbs. boat w/trailer and transported our family around for 239000 with original transmission and rear end. The engine was replaced due to a mishap with the "fast oil change place"not tightening down the oil plug, so My replacement engine has 50,000 less than the body and purrs like a cat.Self-adjusting timimg chain and all. Love this beast, and 22 mpg with 4x4 capable is an awsome value for reliable and capable travel. Keep an eye on the rust especially the frame and treat it early. This rig is a one owner (13 years) and I dont look forward to getting rid of it.

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  Great Little SUV - 2002 Suzuki XL-7
  By yorgibear - March 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a vehicle my wife picked out. I own a Silverado and love it, but I now prefer to drive this little 4X4. The fuel economy has been better than expected and my kids love the DVD/TV screen and sunroof. My wife loves the heated seats and the window locks. The on demand 4X4 is so much better than all-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive goes into gear on the fly (like my Chevy) and we both feel much safer transporting the kids to school and back. I am extremely surprised how well in handles and the freeway and the perky engine. So far we are very satified.

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  Best Car Ever! - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By Tina G - March 19 - 3:30 pm

  Ive had my Suzuki XL7 for 7 years and have put 223,000 miles on it. In that time, Ive only had one minor repair! The body has held up as well as the engine. This car is comfortable, looks great and is the most reliable car Ive ever owned. Hoping to get another 100,000 reliable miles out of it :)

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  "A RICH MANS POOR MIDSIZE SUV " - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By GIFFO - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I CAN NOT BE NEGATIVE REGARDING MY PURCHASE OF THIS PARTICULAR SUV. I HAVE HAD IT FOR OVER ONE YEAR; AND MY ONLY COMPLAINT ARE THE TIRES THAT CAME STANDARD WITH THIS VEHICLE. I CALL THEM THE " DEATH TIRES " ( FIRESTONE / BRIDGESTONE. ) THEY COMPLETELY WORE DOWN BELOW STATE INSPECTION REQUIREMENTD BY 7000 MILES. SUZUKI SHOUL CHANGE ITS AGREEMENT RE. TIRES.

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  Great all-around, do-everything vehicle - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By schnabster - February 17 - 10:00 am

  This is a "do-everything" vehicle. Made for true off-road, while able to haul multi-kids in 3 (tight) rows of seats...hauls lots of gear, too. The six cyl. is a bit under-powered, but fine for everyday around-town and highway, too. Seats are very uncomfortable for long distance driving.