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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  Suzuki XL-7 Limited - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By X3 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  The all new 2003 Suzuki XL7 rocks! With its brand new redesigned interior, and steady handling, it makes it the best suv on the market. (in its category).

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  One tough SUV - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By playinmachine - January 18 - 10:00 am

  The best part of this SUV is the build quality. I have 20,000 miles on my XL7 and no rattles. This is one stout SUV.

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  Nice Vehicle for the price. - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By First Time Suzuki - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I checked out a few SUVs including the Isuzu Trooper, Honda Pilot, Isuzu Rodeo, Toyota Highlander, Ford Escape and many others. I finally ended up with the XL-7 Limited. For the money, this SUV is great. The leather is supple, the front dash looks very nice. The wooden trims combined with chrome accents give the interior a very expensive look. I especially like the part where the front cup holders and space are completely covered with the same interior color plastic. The self illuminous dash light is very easy to read during the day or night. More engine power, power seats and 2nd 3rd row shoulder to shoulder seating space need to be enhanced/added.

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  # Yera Synopsis - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By mjconde - November 19 - 2:00 am

  Extremely reliable vehicle, No major repairs needed outside of routine maintenance for 86,000 miles driven so far.

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  Great SUV for the value! - 2004 Suzuki XL-7
  By ShadowMan - November 14 - 10:00 am

  After having driven many midsize SUVs, it became very clear for the cost, warranty and standard equipment, this was the car. You can pay thousands more and look no better than you will in this vehicle. The vision or view of the road in the XL7 is very good. The seating is firm, but very comfortable, especially on longer trips. Power equipment and accessories are standard features. Handling, road noise and cabin comfort are as good as those costing thousands more. Did I mention a great warranty?

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  Suzuki XL7 satisfaction - 2005 Suzuki XL-7
  By G. Kimzey - September 7 - 3:30 pm

  Best vehicle Ive ever had for the money. Always goes where and when I need. Have had no trouble in 50,000 miles. Will tell everyone about the high quality of the vehicle and its excellent dependability. will surely buy another when needed.

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  In the Budget...... - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By jcusmano - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Check one out before you buy a honda or a toyota.

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  Handles like my sports car! - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Jim - August 29 - 10:46 pm

  Bought this based on test drive and 3rd seat. First experience with 4WD. Had the over-size wheel/tire (option?). This XL-7 has been awesome. Dealer repairs VERY expensive. Driver seat back torn out due to years of toddler abuse (LoL). Car still drives like new. Fast steering - handles very similar to my Miata in fact - may give some used to the GM slush boxes some fun in the wind at highway speeds. Only problem was aluminum chips in early production A/C compressors caused a lot of failures in 01 02 XL-7s; and replacement / system flush averaged between $2000 and $2500 at the dealers.

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  Love this car - 2003 Suzuki XL-7
  By SWebster - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I have owned many cars over the years but I love my XL-7 Limited.

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  Best Value SUV - 2001 Suzuki XL-7
  By Perry Armstrong - July 24 - 7:33 am

  I have not had one problem with my XL-7. It rides nice and smooth like a car and it I love the "power switch." Its like a James Bond SUV (used for passing or for getting a jump start). I dont have any complaints. Its a great value buy. This is why we purchased it.