2008 Suzuki XL7: Road Test
2008 Suzuki XL7 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $21,349 - $28,899
- Invoice: $21,136 - $27,743
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Suzuki XL-7/XL7
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2008 Suzuki XL7 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Suzuki XL7 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Suzuki XL7, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Suzuki XL7 help you decide if a 2008 Suzuki XL7 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
XL7 has ample power from any speed, with little difference between 2WD and AWD versions. The ultra-smooth automatic transmission kicks down promptly for swift passing, and it always seems to be in the right gear. Its manual shift gate is helpful in mountain driving. XL7 clocks under 8 seconds 0-60 mph, says Suzuki, which feels right to us.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an AWD version averaged 16.6 mpg. XL7 uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
The suspension smothers most small bumps reasonably well, but XL7 suffers from excessive float and wallow over even modest road imperfections. There's little apparent difference between 16- and 17-inch tires or with the load-leveling suspension.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
XL7's comfort-biased suspension means marked body lean that demands slow speeds when entering corners. The steering has a numb, artificial feel. A wide turning circle complicates close-quarters maneuvering. The brakes have good stopping control, but some testers would like firmer pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Unlike the similar engine in other GM vehicles, the XL7's V6 is coarse during acceleration and never quiets completely. Wind and road noise are well above the class norms.
CONTROLS
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
XL7's modern dashboard has legible gauges and mostly handy controls. Some may dislike the power window switches arrayed around the center console shift lever. The available navigation system takes some learning, and its screen may be a bit small. It doesn't incorporate any audio or climate functions, however.
DETAILS
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Cabin materials and finish are just OK. Slightly odd texturing on the lower dash and door panels gives the cabin a budget-grade feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Supportive, high set seats give plenty of headroom and legroom. The steering wheel tilts but is not telescopic, which may hinder drivers from finding an ideal position. The rear roofline and small back window impede vision astern and to the right rear. XL7's high-riding stance doesn't help visibility, and it also compromises entry and exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Second-row headroom is six-footer adequate. Legroom shrinks significantly with the front seat set far back, but a chair-height cushion and good under-seat foot space compensate. There's not quite enough width for three grown-ups, though, and entry and exit are a bit steep. Third-row room is adequate for adults for shorter trips.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.6 |
Only grocery-bag space behind the 50/50 3rd-row seat, but that folds flat without removing the headrests. The 60/40 2nd-row seat tumbles forward with the headrests in place. Cargo volume is ample for the class in any configuration, but XL7's liftgate lacks opening glass and could open higher. Cabin storage includes undersize door pockets, a smallish dashboard glovebox, and two roomy console bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5.7 |
XL7 trails the competition for value and overall refinement. It shines only for acceleration and transmission performance. For ride, handling, and quietness, this crossover falls far short of class leaders such as the Honda Pilot and Saturn Outlook.
Total Score
| 2WD Luxury 5-passenger | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 63 | 61 | 63.7 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
