Suzuki XL7
Overall Score - 6.6 (Mediocre)
The XL7 falls on the larger side of the compact SUV class and now includes an optional third-row seat for seven-person capacity. While it's a competent people hauler, the XL7 can't match the acceleration, handling and interior quality standards of class leaders. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, you should also consider the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4. The Honda Pilot and value-priced Hyundai Santa Fe are good midsize SUV alternatives.
Redesigned for 2007, the Suzuki XL7 has been transformed from a truck-like SUV to a modern crossover. Its most prized feature is an optional third-row seat, making the XL7 a value priced seven-passenger vehicle. Yet some auto reviewers are hesitant to unconditionally recommend the XL7. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman concludes that it has some "minor shortcomings," such as a noisy engine and some unrefined features, but if those don't faze you, "you might be perfectly comfortable in the XL7." BusinessWeek finds the XL7 to be Suzuki's "biggest and fanciest SUV ever -- but in this competitive sector, is this where you want to put your $30,000?"
Straddling the line between classes, the 2007 Suzuki XL7 is either one of the largest, priciest compact SUVs or among the least expensive midsize SUVs. The Chicago Sun Times finds it competitively priced. Car and Driver considers the low base price to be the XL7's "best competitive edge." It also says that when options are added, the XL7's loaded price is its "major downfall." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Suzuki XL7 a "poor" overall value rating, based on its projected five-year total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class.
XL7 Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)
Most test drivers have been pleasantly surprised by the XL7's performance, but note it still lags in handling and delivery. The Boston Globe warns, "On the road, the XL7 quickly makes it clear that it is not to be driven as a sports car." continue
XL7 Exterior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Most critics are impressed with the sleeker, more refined look of the redesigned 2007 Suzuki XL7. The Boston Globe auto writer calls it "better looking (Acura-ish, I'd say) than the upright, side-ribbed, ugly box that was the last XL7." continue
XL7 Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
The standard XL7 can seat five passengers, but can be upgraded with an optional third row to seat seven passengers. The XL7 is adequate enough for roominess and comfort, but critics complain that accessing the third row is too difficult. continue
XL7 Safety - 7.6 (Good)
Government crash test ratings have not been released for the 2007 Suzuki XL7. While it's too early to completely assess the new XL7's safety characteristics, Car and Driver says that at least Suzuki "makes a good effort to haul its occupants in comfort and safety." continue
XL7 Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Suzuki XL7 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The XL7 gets a three-year/36,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty. continue
