Summary
What Edmunds.com says
By offering a third-row seat in a compact SUV, Suzuki answers a question not many people are asking.
Pros
Base MSRP of under $20,000, functional third-row seating, spacious interior, quiet on-road demeanor, competent off-road performer.
Cons
Second- and third-row seats are not removable, side-impact airbags are not available, V6 needs more power, interior materials don't match otherwise premium package.
What's New for 2001
The Suzuki XL-7 is an all-new midsize SUV based on a stretched Grand Vitara. It is the first in this class to offer third-row seating and a starting price of under $20,000.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Shotty Air Conditioner Over and Over
Vehicle
2001 Suzuki XL-7 Touring 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
I love my car, except that each year the air conditioner goes out. This year I am told the cost is $1,000+ just for the part condenser or compressor?? And it had to have a dual air conditioner. :-( The car is probably not even worth that much. Too bad that the dealer were so bad on fixing this one problem. Other than that, the car has been perfect. Love the fact that the gasoline door is on the passenger side. It's fully loaded and got what I paid for . .no repairs other than regular maintenance-not bad for an 8yr old car. Body and interior in perfect condition still.
Favorite Features
Perfect for a mom and small kids, or single woman. Love the look and style. Yes, there could be improvements but I got what I paid for. plus, I do believe I got my money's worth. Air was only needed a few days out of the year. Great in the rain and snow, handles well. Love the tinted windows.
Suggested Improvements
Noise inside the cabin Loud engine Too small/no room for anyone over 5' 4" Air never worked-heat was okay. Running board is a joke, non-usable, looks nice. Wouldn't buy another Suzuki ever due to the air conditioner. Cup holders to low, hard to get in the back row until you are two or under.
Best SUV for the Price
Vehicle
2001 Suzuki XL-7 Touring 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
We were looking for a midsized SUV to replace a Caravan. The Suzuki actually did better than we ever expected. The truck came with full power and rear AC as well as seats 7. The engine is very peppy for its engine size, but is kind of fuel thirsty. Ours now has 60k, but actually 48k. If you have a Suzuki, the trip odometer may not be accurate. Other than this, this was one of the best vehicle purchases that I made, in a list that includes Mercedes, BMW, Jaguar, and others that I have owned.
Favorite Features
Rear AC
Suggested Improvements
None
Keeps Going and Going
Vehicle
2001 Suzuki XL-7 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
After 155,000 (40% off road) this is a little tank! I have not had one major thing go wrong after almost 5 years of abuse. Its comfortable on the road and plenty of room for 6. It can be towed 4 wheels down with ease. Its funny to see the surprize looks when leave people at a light after pushing the power button. For the price you just can't beat it.
Favorite Features
It has great off road capibility. I may just raise the frame, park some big tires on it and keep it forever.
Suggested Improvements
The wheel base is too narrow and needs more hip room for the back seats. Tracking takes some getting use to.
My baby
Vehicle
2001 Suzuki XL-7 2WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
I owned this vehicle for about 2 years, and I didn't realize just what a wonderful suv I had until I sold it. I have been searching for another suv ever since then, and nothing compares. I just can't find ANYTHING that even begins to compare to the this vehicle. I am serious. I never realized just how much I truly loved it until it was gone.
Favorite Features
3rd row seat
Suggested Improvements
Do not have a space between the middle and 3rd row seats when they are laid down. I tried to camp in it a few times, and when the seat were laid down to sleep on, the gap between the seats were extremely uncomfortable. We slid the seats as close as they would go. But still there was a 5-9 inch gap
2001 Suzuki XL-7
Vehicle
2001 Suzuki XL-7 Plus 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
I loved this car when I bought. However, the tires do wear out soon. The major problem is the timing chain tensioner. It is a bad design. Suzuki is not offering any help with this. This repair costs around $1600.00.
Favorite Features
Rear seats available if needed. Real 4x4. Dual A/C. Towing ability.
Suggested Improvements
Better resale, only worth $5000.00 with only 60k miles, Originally costs $22,000.00. Better gas mileage. Better tires.
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