2001-2006 Suzuki XL-7: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Introduced during the 2001 model year, Suzuki's newest and biggest midsize sport-utility vehicle was basically the compact Grand Vitara wagon, with a 12.6 inch longer wheelbase and 19.1 inches of added length. Capable of seating seven passengers, the XL-7 used a larger version of the Grand Vitara's V6. Manual and automatic transmissions were available. The XL-7 came with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Its 4WD system had to be disengaged on dry pavement, but included low-range gearing. Four models were offered: Standard, Plus, Touring, and Limited. Antilock braking was standard on Touring and Limited models. Roof rails could hold 100 pounds of cargo. Measuring 183.7 inches overall, the XL-7 was 10 inches longer than a Ford Escape and 6 inches longer than Honda's CR-V. According to Suzuki, rear doors were 8 inches wider at the base and a foot wider at the top, compared to other SUVs in this class. Second-row seats adjusted fore and aft. With second- and third-row seats down, cargo volume totaled 73 cubic feet. A full-size spare tire was mounted on the back door. Standard equipment included air conditioning, keyless remote entry, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and rear wiper/washer. The Plus model added rear air conditioning, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and an in-dash CD player. Touring editions got a sunroof, fog lamps, and a rear spoiler. Leather upholstery and running boards were included with the Limited. Competitors included such midsize models as the Ford Explorer, GMC Envoy, and Toyota Highlander.