The XL7 was first added to the Suzuki model line-up for 2006 and slots nicely between their larger Grand Vitara and the recently introduced crossover SX4. A study in current Japanese design, the XL7 features crisp body lines connecting sculpted features such as the angular headlight clusters and prominent lower front grille elements. In the rear, the sweeping belt line terminates at the taillight assembly creating an equally abstract presentation.
Additionally, the 17" alloy wheels, fog lamps and aluminum roof rails with adjustable sliding Cross bars gave the XL7 a sense of functionality that was further supported by its off-pavement capability.
There is only one power plant offered, the 3.6 liter, 24-valve V-6, that generates 252 horse power and 243 foot pounds of torque. The engine is coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability, and routed through Suzuki's Electronic all-wheel-drive system.
Braking is provided by 4 wheel discs with ABS and traction and stability control are standard.
As the "Limited" designation would suggest, our test vehicle came through with just about every feature possible from three-row leather seating to a high end radio/CD/MP3 player and rear passenger DVD system with individual headsets.
Front passengers are treated to power adjustable, heated seats and wood trim. The tilt-adjustable steering wheel is wrapped in leather and contains controls for a variety of entertainment and communications options. The center console houses the driver information center and trip computer as well as the GPS System.
Airbags are provided throughout as well as side curtain protection on all three rows.
MSRP for the XL 7 All-Wheel-Drive Limited we drove is $29,549.00, but the two-wheel drive, 5 passenger version can be had more in the range of $23,000. Since all models share the same engine/transmission package, EPA estimates for fuel economy for all versions of the XL 7 are 18 MPG City and 24 on the highway.