2008 Suzuki XL-7 Limited 3-row Navi FWD

A Worthy Road Car

SPECS

  • MSRP: $27,299; total vehicle price $27,948; destination $649

  • Engine: 3.6-liter V6 DOHC Dual VVT, 252 hp., 243 lb. ft. torque

  • Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Manumatic shift

  • Wheelbase: 112.4 in.

  • Length: 197.2 in.

  • Width: 72.2 in.

  • Height: 68.9 in.

  • Weight: 3,886 lbs.

  • Tires: P235/60R17 All-season

  • Wheels: 17-inch chrome alloy

  • Warranty: 100,000-mile/7 yr. transferable powertrain limited; 24/7/365 roadside assistance; warranty repair courtesy car; full tank of gas

The upgraded Suzuki XL-7 extended sport utility vehicle served us well when driving to and from New Orleans recently. With a passenger load of four, the car handled well and provided a smooth, quiet ride across interstates and back roads. The top-of-the-line Limited version is equipped with most of what you need, translating to a long list of standard goodies.

The Suzuki XL-7 is based on the Chevrolet Equinox and offers seating for up to seven people. There were four adults in the XL-7 on our trip from Chicago to New Orleans and we were very comfortable. The rear seat is roomy and slides if more space is needed. The third row was down for luggage and supplies, but when tested, was found to be adequate in leg and head room. Available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive, the 2008 XL-7 is priced from $21,349-$27,299. Our test vehicle came just under $28,300 with a fair amount of options.  

The XL-7's engine is General Motors' 3.6-liter V6; a very smooth and responsive engine when highway driving. The XL is available in six trim levels: 5 passenger, 7 passenger, Limited hard top ; XL-7 Luxury 5 passenger, Luxury 7 passenger hardtop utility, special 7 passenger hardtop utility, all with the same V6 engine.

Highway driving was what we did most in the XL-7 and handling and ride were better than average. Cut off by a huge semi, I had to right the car to stay upright. Fortunately, I was able to bring us back into our lane without any mishaps. I never felt compromised as the car maintained its equilibrium even at high speeds. The turning circle is wide in the XL, a feature we appreciate.

Controls aren't the easiest to reach, but for the most part are easily operated. There is plenty of storage with door map pockets and a large center console to accommodate wallets, purses and audio equipment. The XL-7's exterior has been rounded up with a more attractive front grille and headlamps.

All in all, the new Suzuki XL-7 is a driver friendly vehicle, but we find the pricing high for a Suzuki. If you could stay under the $25,000 mark it might be more attractive for a larger percentage of buyers.

Reviewed by Susan Frissell. Womenwithwheels.com