Used 2002 Suzuki XL-7 Consumer Reviews
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227,000 miles and still kicking
Car is excellent, it just keeps going even after 227,000+ miles.The ride is smooth and quiet. I keep running into owners with the same year and model and they're all boasting high mileage with little problems. 100,000 miles ago I had a problem with one side of the catalytic converter. The cost, $900, never got the other side done. Other repairs:power windows, a heating element, freon for the AC. I never had a tuneup, transmission flush, or any maintenance, just regular oil changes. The only thing I don't like is the 17/20/mpg cost because I drive an average of 20,000 miles a year, there is no icon that reminds you gas is low (ran out several times), and now a slow oil leak -2qts a month.
A Real Surprise
I have been driving this vehicle daily since August of 2002. Previous to this purchase, I only thought of Suzuki for motorcycles. This car has really outperformed any car I have owned. Snow, sleet, rain, high winds - no problem. Three sons have learned to drive in this car and they have put this car throughthe ringer, but it keeps going reliably. Although I have given thought recently to replace it with something smaller and brand new, I am hesitant that I will find as good and sturdy a vehicle. Vehicle has well over 100,000 miles.
- StandardMSRP: $6,495470 mi away
- Touring 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,9951,431 mi away
- StandardMSRP: $4,5002,030 mi away
215k miles and still going strong!
I have had my 2002 XL7 for nearly 10 years now. Second Owner. I have gone from 91k miles up to 215k and it's still running like a champ despite my lack of consistent maintenance. I've gone through all the normal stuff like tires, breaks, batteries, windshield wipers, headlights, oil changes and have very few complaints. 1 - not quite enough space for a rear-facing infant carrier. I have to pull up the passenger front seat to the point where only a small adult would be able to sit comfortably. I'm 5'7" and can't sit as a passenger up front with a rear facing infant seat in the vehicle. 2 - I've got a bit of an oil leak and lose about 2 qts a month. 3 - my fuel economy has dropped to an average of 13-15 mpg regardless of city or highway miles. BUT THAT'S IT. Everything else about this vehicle has been amazing. It handles more like a car but after putting a tow hitch on myself (ridiculously super easy by the way to do so) I've been able to tow trailers and even drift boats without any issues. My XL7 handles well on both sand and even pebbly river banks (with a trailer even). It handles well in the snow and even ice, though I would suggest adding a few sandbags for extra weight when there is ice on the road for more than a day. It's a great height for transporting both kids and dogs as both can easily climb in and out on their own. There are child LATCHes which make it easy for child car-seats, booster-seats, and infant carriers to be snapped in and secured quickly. Overall, I have been thoroughly impressed and VERY PLEASED with my XL7. Like I said 215k miles and still going strong!
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Luv My XL-7
We bought my XL-7 used it had 60,770 miles on it. My husband wanted to get me a better vehicle for my 40 mile commute. I love it. I never really thought I would like a utility vehicle but this one has surprised me. Corners well easy to handle and I can see out all around. Great little truck. I would highly recommend it to anyone that needs a 4X4 and it sports plenty of room and a third row seat for my grandchildren. My teenage daughter even likes to drive it. Very stylish looking and I would definitely buy another one. Best vehicle I have ever owned and I have had quite a few.
Watch out for the air compressor
My advice is to do serious research on the XL-7. The a/c compressor has a serious habit of freezing up and breaking the drive belt. This is not a cheap fix. I pulled the B04 relay and just went without the a/c. Brakes are not that great and go out frequently and trying to find someone outside the dealership to work on it is not fun! Oh and the 2001 and 2002 models tend to loose their gas door (as in it comes off).
Classy Little Ride
Back in '96 I purchased a new Suzuki Tracker 4x4 convertible. It was probably the best all around vehicle I have ever owned...fun to drive, never got stuck ANYWHERE, stingy on the gas and an easy to maintain stylish interior(for the money). So in 2000, when Chevy introduced the Chevy Tracker 4dr 4x4...I just HAD to have it! It had an upgraded goodies package that raised the price to $21,000. I couldn't WAIT to turn that thing in when the lease was up, it was awful and nothing but problems! In 2005 I came across a used XL-7, took it for a test drive and fell in love all over again. It is everything I loved about the Sidekick in a bigger, beefier package! Sorry Chevy, but Suzuki wins this one hands down.
276,493 and still going!!!
Third owner. Met first and second owners. First owned from new til a month or two before I bought it, and she loved it.,noticed it in our same hometown by stickers, stopped and told me how much she missed it, how dependable it was, and hopes I enjoy it...I have. She wanted something newer to drive. Second owner said just needed to pay for some medical expenses for his kid, reasonable, and said hadn't had it long. In love soon as I drove it, and had it almost 2 years. Have had brake problems, sticks in gear sometimes(5spd), and dies occasionally, but needs some maintenance to keep up when taxes come. 4x4 works amazing. It does not tick, and if it does, half qt of oil fixes it. Great car, would almost compare to the quality of a Subaru honestly. Had been a gift to rite two kids in!!!!
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Not terrible
Good price for an SUV with third row seat which is WAY too small for frequent use. My husband hates this car, but It never gave us a problem until the service engine light came on at 60k miles. It turned out to be a bad O2 sensor for $250. On maybe 5 different occasions, the belt squealed briefly when turning on the A/C then stopped. I should have taken it to the shop immediately. At 100,000 miles, the A/C compressor locked up and caused the belt to break - a $1,400 repair in total. Fuel efficiency is horrible, avg 17-20 mpg.
XL-7 - GREAT RIDE!
Five months and 7200 miles and we're still in love with our XL-7. Wife had reservations about SUV (previously drove Cutlass), but now says she will never drive a car again! Truck rides and drives GREAT! I no longer get tired on long trips! Daughter loves the rear air, extra leg room, and reclining rear seats. We didn't need third row seating, but had to buy that way to get rear air. We removed third row seat cushion and that provided flat load floor. Still needs cargo net to keep groceries from falling out on feet when rear door opened. Truck has not been back to dealer since the day we left. There has been no need!
Reliable, Economic SUV
Overall a very reliable vehicle. However, I would admit this is no luxury SUV but for the price a very good value. Build quality is somewhat questionable. Dealer support is good as is the service that accompanies it.
Listen to owners not reviewers
The reviewers seem to have a bias against the XL7. Many of their criticisms are accurate, but of little significance if you are purchasing this vehicle based on needs rather than on how it stacks up against a Lexus or BMW car-ute. This is a little truck that will tow 3000 pounds and handle much more rigorous terrain than the AWD "car-utes". I'm stepping down from a 1984 Toyota Land Cruiser with 210,000 mi. This was the ONLY little ute to meet my criteria between a mix of true truck-like utility and durability and on road manners and economy. Check your needs, not the reviews...and see what owners think of this totally under appreciated vehicle.
8 YEARS AND NOT ONE REPAIR....
8 YEARS AND NOT ONE REPAIR....I have had this SUV since 2003 - I have not had one repair other than wear and tear items like breaks, wipers, bulbs, and oil changes. This SUV has been the BEST car ever. It's 4WD gets you through the tough winters...the only thing the SUV lacks is the comfort and luxury. It now has $122K on it...I am ready for something new....I wish the new ones had a comfortable seat...and came standard with more of the luxury items...
Will Not Ever Buy From Suzuki Again !!!
I got the truck used, and within a month I had been rear-ended. One part to be replaced was the tailpipe, estimated cost $175-$200. After 5 months, many trips to the dealer, hours of agony, and countless phone calls to Suzuki, I discovered that the exhaust system on the 2002 XL-7 was redesigned, and to repair my vehicle, I would need to replace the ENTIRE exhaust system, cost about $2000. To make it worse, Suzuki can't produce a tail pipe for a truck that was in production at the time of the accident. I spoke with every level of customer support at Suzuki, nothing came of it. I do not want Suzuki to earn another penny of my money.
XL-7 review
I am so disappointed with this vehicle. The third row is too small for even my children to fit comfortably. The car has electrical problems, the keyless entry doesn't work, my interior light and headlights go out frequently and need to be replaced. I have had problems with my brakes (I don't know if its the car or the place that keeps fixing them).
fun 4x4
The car has adequate acceleration. Good braking. The side opening rear door is a plus for me. Gas mileage is typical for a 4x4 vehicle. Interior room is good. Drivers seat has adequate adjustment to make the driving comfortable. All in a it is a good purchase and fun to drive.
Not bad for the price !!!
This little SUV handles it own. For the price the features are outstanding. I have a third row seat whichs is great for kids , but a little cramped for the adults on long trips. The soft plastic they use for the visors is too filmsy and not long enough to block the sun when you use it for side use. Overall this SUV is worth the price and has enough room to spare and using the 4 Wheel drive is fun. Oh !! I do have one issue that I am too lazy to go to get fixed, is that sometimes the radio LEDS go dim in the daylight whichs makes it hard to see the station and clock. One day I will have the issue addressed when I have time to go to the dealer.
Get truckster with some weakness
I'm on my second 2002 XL7. It will be my last as critical parts are starting to get scarce at the wreckers. I use these vehicle for a lot of off pavement travel in southern British Columbia. They are fine on logging/gravel roads but the long wheelbase makes them too low for trail travel. I've lifted mine 2.5 inches and it has solved 90% of the breakover issues. Manual locking hubs saves CV joints from wear from the increased angle from the lift. As these small 4x4s have a full frame, adding a winch is simple. 215 85/16 tires fit with the lift and gives you an added inch of clearance. I have a raise cargo floor bunk in the back to sleep in and have full +6 ft to stretch out. The roof rack is solid enough for a 12 ft boat. This truck is comfortable, roomy, comparatively fuel efficient and very capable off pavement when lifted just a bit. Now...the downside. 1. The automatic comes with an aluminum front differential. I've broken 3 so far. The 5 speed has a metal diff but are very hard to find. I have one in the shop waiting for this aluminum one to crack. The steel ones are indestructible. 2. The timing change tensioner and plastic chain guides tend to go after 200,000 kms. It is listed as a 16 hour job in a shop which sends many of these 2.7 liter motors to the wreckers. Just do the job yourself. YouTube has a couple of videos with shortcuts that let you do it in your driveway...no special tools...in a weekend and 6 beers. 3. Catalytic converter under the body plugs up with too much slow driving and/or bad fuel. The solution is to take it off and ream it out with rebar rod. There are no sensors behind it. There are cats on the manifolds that do most of the work. And the number of reamed out cats done by weekend wrenchers is infinitesimally small. The world will survive. 4. They are tippy! Even in stock height, these things feel like they will turtle when pushed. Now take off the sway bar and add 3 inches of height and you ain't drivin' a Porsche no mo'. Drive civilized and realize that pancaking it over can happen in a second. The off road gains from the mods are worth it. Overall...good little truckster. I wish Suzuki was still in North America and that the new Jimny was available. I'd buy one in a microsecond.
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Long-Term Use Report
Got my Suzuki XL-7 in 12/01 and still like it today after 53,000 miles. It was the best SUV for the money at the time with its 3rd row seats and REAL part-time 4WD. I commute with it and now after break-in, Im getting 20 mpg, I only got 17 mpg before. My XL-7 feels heavy but still it is still fun and sporty to drive. It did really well at the off-road course I took last year. The only problem I had was a coolant leak which may be the dealer's fault. I recommend regular trans/diff fluid changes. And the original tires are lousy, mine were bald at 15,000 miles. Go with Yokohamas, mine are still like new after 30,000 miles. I solved my oil filter access problem by cutting a hole at the wheel well and bolted on an aluminum sheet door. The colored weather strips have all faded.
Not Worth the Price
I have had nothing but problems with my 2002 Suzuki XL-7. The front end has had continous noise and problems, and it literally eats tires every 15,000 miles. The steering wheel has always made noise, and the air conditioner froze and leaked water all over the passenger at 5,000 miles, All the other problems started at 15,000 miles. I would not suggest buying this vehicle. I have had it in the shop 1- 2 times a month. I can't wait to get rid of it, and I will never buy another Suzuki. After ten attempts to fix it, I have been told it is not fixable. Off to lemon law court we go.
You get more for your money
you will get more for your money with the suzuki xl7. comfortable interior, high performance. bigger that a trailbalzer but cheaper. more features. its worth yopur money.
93k and still going
Clock turned 93k and still going. 5 speed manual tranny and still same clutch. Love the truck, takes a beating and still ticking. Live in NYC, bad roads etc. Still solid. Blew a wheel bearing at 90k (bad roads) quick repair cheap (not at the dealer). Too bad they had to ruin it with the 08 models. They had a good SUV at a good price. Hope mine lasts another 5 years.
What's not to like?
I went shopping for a Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute and came home with the Suzuki. After having 3 dealers tell me that I really should drive the XL-7, I reluctantly tried one...I loved it. It was quieter, handled better and was more roomy than many of the bigger SUV's that I tried. The AT shifts very smoothly, and it has just the right amount of bells and whistles. Very solid vehicle. This vehicle is deceptively quick and motors well at highway speeds and beyond.
The Bigger, Small SUV
It handles very well for it's size and weight. It is very easy to park especially with the bigger side mirrors. Roomy enough for our 4 kids and they can handle flipping down a middle seat to get into the rear. Exceptional sound from the 4 speaker/1 subwoofer CD player. We added chrome nerfbars to help with the kids getting in and out and helps prevent door dings. The driving lights really help in rain and foggy conditions and help shine where the headlights (very bright) can't. Heated side-mirrors are a must. With the rear air/heat vents, warming up and cooling down is done quickly. Uses 5.8 quarts of oil.
Reviewers Must be Prejudiced
We just got this car, and absolutely love it more each time we drive it. It can't possibly be the same vehicle the reviewers are talking about. It is peppy, quiet, comfortable and with excellent build quality.
I've Seen and Driven Better
Over all the xl-7 is not too bad, but the driver's seat area is too narrrow. Also the floor heat is very bad doesn't hardly work even. And that is not a good thing for living in Central New York. Alot of people are complaining about the access of the oil filter. It is a bit of a pain but oce you get the hag of it it isn't as bad.
luv the little ute
So far we are very happy with our purchase. The limited has all the creature comforts. Leather is very comfortable. Once you figure out the seats they are easy to use. It is easy to drive and the interior is well thought out. IT is great looking too. Gas mileage so far (just under 1000 miles) is not great. Less than 15 mpg.
Great Little SUV
This is a vehicle my wife picked out. I own a Silverado and love it, but I now prefer to drive this little 4X4. The fuel economy has been better than expected and my kids love the DVD/TV screen and sunroof. My wife loves the heated seats and the window locks. The on demand 4X4 is so much better than all-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive goes into gear on the fly (like my Chevy) and we both feel much safer transporting the kids to school and back. I am extremely surprised how well in handles and the freeway and the perky engine. So far we are very satified.
Joy to drive
I have now had my XL 7 for about 2 months and love the ride. Very comfortable.
I cant decide
Drivers cockpit cramped. My leg rubs when driving and if I push the seat back there is no passenger leg room. Definitely needs better gas mileage. Barely getting 15 Mpg. Needs a low fuel light and smaller rear headrests. Good looker. Nice leather interior. The heated seats sure do work. Could use a better tire size. Third seat only holds very samll children.
Affordable, Comfortable, and Stylish
I used to have a 2000 Taurus, but it had to go. I needed more room. I traded it in and thanks to a dealer incentive lost no equity on an already reasonably priced vehicle. I really wasn't sure what to expect but so far at 4200 miles I am still very happy with my purchase. I opted for the automatic and no 3rd seat. The cargo room is great and no stoplight shifting for me. If you have more money than brains like most Americans, you need to spend 30K on an overpriced SUV. If you want results for a reasonable price, then I reccommend the Suzuki XL-7.
Best Value Hands Down
The XL7 is the perfect answer to a growing family wanting safety and versatility. It has achieved enviable scores in crash tests and rollover resistance tests. It comfortably seats 7 for typical needs (scouting trips, little league, etc.). It has great pickup, handles well, has micron air filters in the AC, heated mirrors ... the list goes on; and it does all this at a price typical of much smaller vehicles. Sound system is more than adequate.
Let Me Down
I am very disappointed with my Suzuki XL-7. At 48,000 miles the air compressor pump/belt went out. It cost $1,600 to replace! I live in Oregon, and only use the A/C 6 weeks of the year!
Best Mid-size Suv for the Buck
A great SUV that has so much to offer for the price. I also like the piece of mind I get with the 7-year 100,000 mile warranty.
Great SUV for the Price
I needed a bigger vehicle for family transport. The XL-7 seats 7 (five adults+ 2 kids in the 3rd row) comfortably with luggage. It's great for trips to the grocery store. This truck is fun to drive and looks sharp, but needs to get better gas mileage (17 mpg).
Love It!
I bought this SUV 2 years ago and fell in love from the start. The only problem I've had besides normal wear and tear was the ABS kicking in prematurely when I first bought it. Once the problem was fixed with my warranty the car has been nothing but awesome! The gas mileage is average, but the way the car handles and the fun I have driving it makes up for it. I was sad to find out I'd have to get rid of it, due to child #3 and no room, but I am trading it in for a newer XL-7 with a 3rd row seat. I have driven several SUVs, this has been the best by far! Love it on long trips, which are taken often. Anyone who has numerous problems must have a lemon and should give the XL-7 a second chance.
XL-7 Me!
Great vehicle for the money! Downsizing from an Expedition, the size difference was our biggest adjustment, but the features and performance have won us over - and the rear windows go all the way down! "Value engineering" is evident in some places, but tolerable so far.
Love my SUV
I have had my XL-7 for 3 months and I still love it. When I was first shown one I had no knowledge of it. I drove it and liked it, but the dealership was asking too much. So I found another one online, LOVED the color, test drove it in the snow and I had to have it. I drive about 40 miles roundtrip to work each day and the gas isn't as bad as I had expected. It is very roomy inside and accommodates my 6'5" fiancee. I would definitly reccommend it to anyone.
OK for the money.
Good SUV for the money. Liked 3rd seat compared to cost of other SUV's. But have had problems with seal at waterpump, dealer fixed twice. Lousy MPG - no better than 15-16 mpg. And terrible defroster !! And crummy tires. Dunlops, just about bald at 20K.
Excellent Value
Our family has had the XL-7 for a month now, and are very pleased with the vehicle. First, it has high value as it provides more features than it's competitors do compared to selling price. Second, the exterior styling is pleasing -it's lean and clean. Third, the interior is comfortable and the ride is very smooth for a truck. Controls are logically positioned. Lastly, the third row seat is a definate plus. Overall, the quality is very high in all aspects. The XL-7 is a great alternative to a mini-van and is a lot of fun to drive. There is a lot to like about this vehicle compared to what you pay for it.
Great truck for the $$$!
This is my second Suzuki truck, and am expecting a similarly positive experience with this one. The features vs. cost of this truck far exceeded anything else I was considering. My truck had only 2 defects so far, requiring a wheel alignment, and replacement of the transfer lever.
A Very Reliable Vehicle
We have 40,000 miles on this car and not one problem has occured. This is the most reliable car that I have ever owned. We completed an 8,500 mile trip and found it to be a comfortable ride. The Denver Suzuki/Isuzu Dealer was easy to deal with and we got a good deal.
Love It!
I have owned a multitude of 4x4's over the years, but overall find my XL-7 one of the very best values. It may not be the fastest, most off-road worthy, get the best gas mileage, or draw the most looks but it has never let me down, even during -15 degree Colorado winters. You won't go wrong, but keep in mind it is not a $50k vehicle, so don't expect one.
Great Value!
Excellent quality, great value for the money. Fun to drive and rides very smoothly. If you are looking for a SUV with 3 rows of seat at a reasonable price (low $20K), definitely consider this SUV.
Great SUV for the Money
Great vehicle for the money. I've owned my XL-7 for one year and have put 20,000 miles on it. No complaints and haven't had any problems. Comfortable car on the road and great off road capabilities as well. The V-6 is small but adequate.
2002 Suzuki XL-7
This vehicle is a fantastic SUV. Not only does she look sleek and classy. Her handling is excellent. Brakes are a little squashy but still are very good when stopping is a must. The back hach opening is a dream. Opening from the side instead of downward, is way better and convenient. The 4wd in bad winter conditions has proven itself to me as the best i've seen yet in handling slushly, slippery roads. All in all it was thee best investment i've ever made!! Suzuki out did themselves with this SUV.
So far so good!
I have owned my XL-7 for 2 months and still am very much in love with it. It is fun to drive, good in turns and after switching to synthetic oil, have been getting 25 mpg on the freeway.
XL7 - Fun, Reliable, Economical!
Our XL7 Touring 4WD had approximately 11,000 miles on it when we purchased it. It is extremely fun to drive, very economical and has presented few problems. There is a recurring "rattle" because the hood adjustment keeps getting loose and the front passenger seatbelt malfunctioned and was replaced, but other than that - no problems. It would be nice if Suzuki would make the seats a little more comfortable, too. It is easy to park, corners very well and is easy to control in windy, storm conditions. The moonroof opens easily for just a little ventilation, or for a more "open-air" experience. A very fun, reliable and economical vehicle overall.
Versitlile Car
this is a dependeble and versitile car the seats hurt your back if you do not get the leather option. But overall, solid transpoetation and a great value
NICE VALUE
This vehicle really surprised me, great looks nice power and great price.
2002 XL7 Limited
We researced for SUV's for about 8 months before we got the XL7 Limited. We wanted 3 seats, leather, sunroof, 4wd, not too big, not too small,and great build quility and comfort. The more we searched the more we found out that there really are not many choices if you did not want to spend over $30k.