- 2009
2008 Suzuki XL7
- Used Suzuki XL7
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
Most critics are impressed with the sleeker, more refined look of the 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."
In the minority, U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman finds the XL7's exterior "ungainly" and "tall and wide without being particularly handsome." In the majority, the Chicago Sun Times writes that the exterior is "progressive," separating the XL7 from the "more conservatively designed SUVs."
The 2008 Suzuki XL7 gained length and width from the previous model. The Boston Globe recognizes the "big step" Suzuki took, building the XL7 atop the same General Motors Theta platform that anchors the Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent. The Suzuki XL7 is about 10 inches longer; a few inches wider and with a wheelbase upped about 2 inches, all making the ride "smoother and more stable." Kelley Blue Book calls the XL7 exterior "balanced," with "clean lines, with a nod to much via muscular wheel arches." Ward's Auto World calls the exterior an "aggressive look," "befitting this little beast."
The front bumper on the 2008 Suzuki XL7 is "cleverly built," states New Car Test Drive, placed in the front valence with the center portion painted black to make it appear smaller. The Chicago Sun Times liked the "long hood line" and "big fender flares," giving the XL7 an "aggressive feel." The car "is strikingly modern and fresh," quotes the Detroit News, with the overall lines as "really eye-catching."
The base, Luxury and Limited models come with roof rails and privacy glass. The base model has 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels standard, while the Luxury and Limited editions come standard with 17-inch wheels.
