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2009 Suzuki XL7 Review - What the Auto Press Says

While it's a competent people hauler, the Suzuki XL7 can't match the acceleration, handling and interior quality of top rivals. However, it succeeds as a value-priced seven-passenger vehicle.

For 2009, the XL7 gets standard three-row seating and a new six-speed automatic transmission. "XL7 trails the competition for value and overall refinement," says Consumer Guide. "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." As of mid-2008, the XL7 was one of the slowest-selling vehicles in America, and Suzuki is discontinuing it after the 2009 model year. For a more fuel-efficient alternative, consider the Subaru Forester.

The XL7 is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. For 2009, the former base model and all five-passenger models have been discontinued. Premium, Luxury and Limited trims are available.

• "After a week with the XL7, we were surprisingly impressed. It's a functional family wagon flavored with a hint of luxury at a bargain-bin price." -- Popular Mechanics
• "The Suzuki XL7 is a good choice in the midsize crossover class." -- The Auto Channel
• "The XL7 isn't quite as refined as some in this segment, but then again, it costs thousands less. For those shopping for a crossover, it's worth a look." -- Daily Southtown
• "Suzuki has a little more work to do on its 2009 XL7, but the SUV does have its good points. The interior is sleek and shiny, with supportive leather-trimmed seats. The third row is no joke, with full-size seats, cupholders and plenty of legroom. When the third row is folded down, the cargo space is simply amazing." -- Mother Proof

XL7 Performance - 7.0 (Good)

The Suzuki XL7's peppy performance is a pleasant surprise for test drivers. However, complaints continue about the noisy engine. Popular Mechanics says the V6 engine "offers decent power, but seems to struggle a bit with the size and heft of the XL7. It's also noisy, which is surprising considering the smoothness of this engine in other GM products we've sampled from Buick and Cadillac." Test drivers are also disappointed with the XL7's braking distances. Read More

XL7 Exterior - 7.5 (Good)

The XL7 is sleek and refined, but its styling still tends to get lost in the dense crowd of compact SUVs. Nevertheless, some reviewers give its exterior high praise. "Large diamond-shaped headlights distinguish the XL7 from anything else on the road," says The Auto Channel. The XL7 has gained substantial length and width over the years. View Photos

XL7 Interior - 7.3 (Good)

While buyers could previously choose from five- or seven-passenger models, the 2009 Suzuki XL7 comes exclusively with three-row seating. Though the cabin shines for its spaciousness, the interior materials continue to disappoint. "XL7's interior feels roomy and comfortable," says the Daily Southtown. "There are some cheap-looking surfaces, but that's expected at this price range. A few reviewers consider the XL7 worth a look simply because of its third-row seat. Read More

XL7 Safety - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2009 Suzuki XL7 does very well in federal government crash tests and comes with lots of safety features. "You don't have to buy the Limited to get the full suite of safety equipment that gives the XL7 a five-star NHTSA rating for frontal and side impact safety, and four stars for rollover protection," says The Auto Channel. The XL7's standard safety features include an electronic stability system. Read More

XL7 Reliability - 2.5 of 5

The 2009 Suzuki XL7 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. Suzuki offers a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty for the XL7. Read More