Used 2003 Suzuki XL-7 SUV Consumer Reviews
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Best Car Ever!
I've had my Suzuki XL7 for 7 years and have put 223,000 miles on it. In that time, I've only had one minor repair! The body has held up as well as the engine. This car is comfortable, looks great and is the most reliable car I've ever owned. Hoping to get another 100,000 reliable miles out of it :)
Sleeping Giant (well in spirit @least)
We have owned this XL-7 for 2 years. It is the 13th car we have owned but by far the best value for the money. Have had Fords Dodges and Hondas all nice but this one really beats them all, hands down. All the toys and goodies of an expensive SUV with the reliablity of a solid Japanese Mfg. It may not be big is stature but it is a Giant in value.
Great Vehicle
I purchased my Suzuki Grand Vitara Xl-7 brand new in 2003.. I depend quite a bit on my vehicle for work and require a reliable vehicle that I know I can count on. this vehicle has been a great find and has surpassed my expectations. with over 100,000 miles I have yet to invest in any repairs or huge maintenance costs. good quality vehicle that you know you can count on for many years to come.
Colorado Cruising
Overall this is a reliable vehicle. We have not had any maintenance issues. It has a snappy acceleration. I just had to get used to the power coming on at 3000 rpm. On the highway the ride is great except for a little road noise but not that bad. Around town the lady likes it for in and out of parking lots. Gas mileage is about 17 mpg in town and 21 to 23 on highway. The car survived quite well after being rear ended buy a F250 super duty ford diesel, impact was absorbed by the rear door mounted spare. After repair it is still driving great.
All good but the 4wd
It is overall very reliable, and works well. Power wen I need it, fuel efficient for its size when i baby it. 4wd on the other hand failed. My mom complained about the 4wd for years and mechanics said thats just how suzuki 4wds work. I finally brought it to the Suzuki dealership where they said the same thing. i asked them to just take a look. Their senior mechanic said he has never seen a 4wd fall apart like that. He said it would cost at least $800 just to take it apart and see what is wrong. Only other complaint is that the belt they used is too skinny so it squeaks every morning if it is under 40 degrees. If the 4wd still worked it would be a perfect car. Suggestions would be great
My suzuki X-L7
The car runs smoothly on both highway and local roads. Is able to easily acellerate onto highways. Has no problem in snow, we had a bad winter last year one storm was over 30" our XL- 7 never got stuck. Gas milage could be better it gets around 15 miles/gallon around town, 19/gallon highway. It's had two recalls both were quickly repaired by the dealer. I love the ABS braking, it's worked well on slippery rain slicked roads.
tough suv
We shopped a long time before deciding on the XL-7 I had gone on the Edmonds site... earlier models seemed to be very reliable and I have had no problems. This is a handsome SUV that will impress when your in a snowy environment.
My Suzi has proven herself.
I just bought my suziki recently, used. I loved the looks of it and the 4x4 was what I really needed because I live in a flood area. It proved itself this past week when I came across a flooded road going home one night going home from work. It didn't look that deep but by the time I was half way thru the water was coming over the hood. It never lost power or traction. I passed a car stuck half way thru and the looks on their faces was priceless as they watched me drive (or possibly floating) by. I was scared but the adrenalin rush when I made it to the end was priceless. Had a little water in the passenger floor board. Other than that ALL DRY!!
Another stop to fill up
I like this small SUV for the price. I had to look a long time to find one without the 3rd seat. The 3rd seat doesn't fold flat.
Could be better
Nice fully loaded SUV; however, too expensive when considering the poor gas mileage. I've had one idiot run into the side of me and I barely felt a thing. He was going 45 mph when he hit, so if you have kids you can rest easy that they'll be safe.
Love this car
I have owned many cars over the years but I love my XL-7 Limited.
2001 XL-7 Plus 4X4
I actually have a 2001 but it's virtually the same vehicle. I love this truck...Yes a truck, not an awd car type SUV. Suzuki has been doing it right for many years and The Grand Vitara/XL-7 is one of their finest. The 3rd row of seats sold me! Oh yah, Durango has 7 pass seating but I didn't have $10,000 more and uh, try sitting in the back of one. Love my XL- 7!
XL-7 Great Little Truck
I have had no problems with this truck. It has performed flawlessly.it has REAL 4wd. Great in snow. 19mpg. The only defect I encountered was that the timing chain cover was installed with prc instead of a gasket. It seeps a little oil. I was called at home by the dealer as a courtesy and informed of the problem. It is covered by the warranty.
A very good buy in more ways then one!
My husband and I are Jeep lovers, when we met we both had Suzuki Samari's. We spent the last 2 years looking for the best vehicle to upgrade with. But after our son came along we were even more anxious on finding a dependable and secure Jeep to transport our bundle of joy. We stubbled across a pearl white XL7, after the test drive we were sold not to mention that it was in great condition and had low mileage. It looks good but when we have family outtings & picnics it accomdates everything from bodies to bags! My husband has even taken the Jeep filled with friends on an island tour of our country Barbados and every passenger was so comfortable during the ride they feel at intervals!
tranny failed 100,000 miles dont buy
I was happy with this vehicle until the transmission failed. The mechanic pulled it apart and showed me the parts were cheap and paper thin. The customer service I received from corporate was terrible. Don't buy this car.
2003 Step up model
No complaints, reliable, vaule for money, improved interior.
Very nice and affordable
This vehicle is very nice for the price.I haven't experience any problems with it,although it was recalled twice. Mpg has been about 18, and maintenace routine.I love the interior and features.I have the five seater limited so, I really enjoy the flat load floor.
Great Little SUV
My Suzuki is the best 4WD SUV that money can buy. I bought it used with 10,000 miles on it and know have 50,000. It has a trailer hitch, factory, and pulls my motorcycle great even in the mountains. Its off road performance is excellent. The factory tires, Brigestones, are only fair and lasted 30,000 miles. I found a worthy cheap replacement Kumos at only $350.00 for four. Its reliability has been excellent.
Satisfied Customer
Was looking for a smaller SUV that would move more than 5 people occasionally. This has worked just as we had expected. Its not built to be the big 7 passenger SUV - it works for a mix of adults & kids. The ride is great and the features more than adequate, all for a reasonable price! It might not be suitable for larger people, but its exactly what we were looking for.
Vehicle
This is my 2nd Suzuki and really like the performance, value and mileage. Getting a fully loaded XL-7 for 10k lower than everyone else makes this vehicle very affordable! My salesperson really knew her stuff, but sitting in the XL-7 actually sold itself. And talk about performance, someone drove my vehicle and said it drove like his Tahoe. I recommend you test drive one and you'll never buy anything ele. Unbelievable value for your hard-earned dollars!
Love this car
Just as great as a Toyota made super well! Reliable, handles super, great 4 wheel drive. Hugs the road, extremely reliable. Good on gas. First time buyer and we were really impressed. Has a 3rd row which comes in handy when needed.
A Fine Vehicle Worth A Serious Look
I had been shopping SUVs between some other more well-known brand names, but I eventually decided to purchase a Suziki after my wife and I test drove it. The reasons that convince us to make the purchase are as follows: 1). The engine is significantly quiter than all other SUVs under 35K range we have test driven. 2). The road manner is smooth and comfortable, more car- like. 3). The exterior and interior are satisfactorily decent. 4). Hard- to-beat value for the price you pay. 5). The size of the vehicle is just right for someone who is looking for an SUV that is not too compact neither too bulky.
Yeah baby!
We purchased a fully-loaded XL-7 / Touring 4WD (show car, which had 7,000 miles on it). Got it at a really reasonable price. Nice on the road. Not really a gas drinker. Very fun to drive! Interested if Suzuki will ever make a soft-top version?! LOL!
handles nice
Just purchased a month ago and pleased with the overall ride and handling of the XL 7. Needed a larger SUV with more features. Would recommend.
love my suzuki
I bought my 2003 suzuki XL7 3years ago and I love it. It has gotten me through a really tough winter 2009 in MD. My only problem is that my CD player just stopped working my friend who also has the XL7 had the same problem with her CD player and a CD got stuck in hers. I was able to get my CD out but it just doesn't play at all. Other than that I love it, It has an automatic starter (not sure who added that but it is a plus) I would buy another one...but hope this one last a long time.
Very Good for the Money
So far it has been a great SUV for me. It is the first I have owned. I looked at many others in this class and most were much more expensive, were less roomy, and the interior materials looked cheaper. The Suzuki was above average in all of these areas. The build quality is excellent. The engine and transmission are quiet and smooth. So far in mixed driving I am getting 20mph. There is plenty of cargo space and comfort.
second xl-7
great suv had a 2001 plus for 2in half years never had a problem,moved to michigan a year ago 1st winter was ok but need a 4 wheel dr and wife wanted auto trans so far the snow is no problem did have to change the tires forn the snow a must for the cold weather.
Nice
Bought the car last month. Test drove Element, Tribute, and Forester. The XL- 7 was all around much nicer to drive and had many more features for about the same price or less. Interior is nicer than our Audi. Have also previously owned a Trooper, Cherokee, and Tahoe and though smaller the XL-7 handles better and is queiter than any of those hogs.
Great car
I bought this on an impulse and have not been disappointed. I love this inside ans out. I have yet to find any problems.
nice job
a litt le under power but thats about it fun too drive
Great SUV at a great price
In the XL7, I got the small SUV I wanted and we still have 7 seats for emergencies, although you do have to adjust the 2nd and 3rd row just right to make everyone comfy.The XL7 is on a sturdy truck frame and has a real and simple manual 4wd system.The engine is not a power dynamo but adequate and very smooth with the liquid filled engine mounts and 32 valve config.The engine using a timing chain instead of a belt also appealed to me. Gas mileage is better than expected, getting 22-23 on the open road and 18-19 in city driving.It is simple and practicle in engineering and design but comes with a host of standard features.
country boys limosine
this old country boy has never ridden ion a more comfortable vehicle. i am handicapped and find this vehicle to be the easiest i have ever been able to get into.
Nice Vehicle for the price.
I checked out a few SUV's including the Isuzu Trooper, Honda Pilot, Isuzu Rodeo, Toyota Highlander, Ford Escape and many others. I finally ended up with the XL-7 Limited. For the money, this SUV is great. The leather is supple, the front dash looks very nice. The wooden trims combined with chrome accents give the interior a very expensive look. I especially like the part where the front cup holders and space are completely covered with the same interior color plastic. The self illuminous dash light is very easy to read during the day or night. More engine power, power seats and 2'nd 3'rd row shoulder to shoulder seating space need to be enhanced/added.
Excellent Vehicle except for gas mileage
I was a skeptic of buying foreign vehicles, but the Suzuki XL-7 has won me over. This vehicle is fun to drive, handles well and is very reliable.
Most Features For Your Money
I was pleasantly surprised with the XL- 7. I was in the market for something bigger for my growing family (previous car 2000 Camry, another EXCELLENT car). I was interested in 3rd row SUVs, but didn't think we could afford one. Heard a radio ad for the XL-7 and decided to check it out even though I was not a big fan of Suzuki. Was very surprised by the smooth ride (husband owns Isuzu Rodeo--ROUGH ride) and the luxurious look and feel of the interior and exterior. Very well loaded for a total price of @ 22K. Gas mileage (main concern for an SUV) is not as bad as you would expect either.
First Suzuki
First time Suzuki owner. It has plenty of power and is fun to drive. Only been back to the dealer for a seat belt replacement. Would not retract. Lots of snow in this area. No problem with this baby getting around. Shift to 4 wheel on the fly is super. Would buy another one in a minute.
Good deal
Handles well and comfortable, 3 years 140000 miles and only have changed oil and brakes, gas mileage is less than expected, body control module quit early on and factory would not cover.
GOOD CHOICE
It's a good choice because cover my family needs. I don't like vans & mini vans and my wife use it to pick up & drop my kids to school. It has nice handling and very good engine. I like this SUV.
The best unknown SUV - Mid range
This vehicle is exceptional especially trim and fit. Power is in hurt considering it is a 6cy. but miles have been reasonably good. comfort and luxury not expected. overall great buy and a real sleeper for under 30K it has it all.
my suzuki xl-7
I love my xl-7!!It is fun and my kids love having the third seat. we now have room for my kids friends and my kids love the rear air-conditioning, before they would be hot in the back while the grown-ups would be cool in the front. I feel like a million bucks when driving my sporty yet practical suv!!
Pearl White XL7 Limited
With 5800 miles under my belt I have to say the XL7 is a great car. I have the Limited package that makes the car look like a $40K SUV. Everyone laughs when I tell them it's a Suzuki, they don't believe itme Full leather, sun roof power everything. And the extra room the XL has is great. I just brought home two 60 inch beches for my boat. One in the cargo area and on on the roof with the optional racks attached. Let me see a RAV4 or even the new KIA pull that one off. And 7 seats to beet! The longer wheel base really helps the ride a well. Definately worth a second look. Captain Wade
Gimme an import!
This is the second SUV I have owned. I previously owned a Ford Escape. While the pickup and overall power were better in the Ford, it handled like a dump truck. I was afraid to take a turn for fear of turning over. I intensionally took sharp angled turns at above normal speeds during my test drive. The wheels were glued to the road. I never had the sensation of "holding on for dear life" while attacking the turns. I like the center console instead of the steering column gear shifter. The wood trim is a nice touch. It is also a sharp looking vehicle from the outside. Overall, a quality vehicle ot a reasonable price.
upgrade
It has a big turning radius. That is the only negative. It handles well and the fuel economy and acceleration are acceptable. Excellent cockpit design, radio and cruise controls are on the steering wheel. Leather is nice and comfortable. It is fun to drive.
I like mine and I'm a big guy
Love the acceleration, and smooth ride, 100x smoother that Jeeps & CRX, gets 25 mpg on the hiways at 90mph with no hesitation/"maxing out". probably will do 120 mph if need to! Anyway, I feel very good about the price and performance. Great sound system with cd and tape player.
best kept secret
Just purchased the XL-7 Touring model without the 3rd row seat. Very happy so far. Comes with a lot of standard features for the price paid. The size of the XL-7 is somewhere between the compact SUV's (Rav-4, CRV) and the mid-large SUV's (Pilot, Explorer). Fun to Drive. If Suzuki came out with a full size SUV it would give the Explorer and Pilot a lot of competition.
Great for the price
30000 miles and not a hiccup. Performance has been great. Tows my fishing boat with no problem (2000 lbs,) Wife loves it!
Suzuki XL7
excellant SUV! Glad we got one
deserves more credit
This is a really nice suv, we really like the quality feel of the car and what specs you get for your $$$ think it would sell 100 times as many of these if it had a toyota or honda badge with the same features and same price. people cant look past that suzuki badge!! There loss!!!!!!!!!!!!
WELL EQUIPED FOR THE MONEY
EXTREMELY WELL EQUIPED FOR THE DOLLARS VERY NICE RIDE AND HANDLING. WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO ALL MY FRIEND AND NEIGHBORS.LUXURY VEHICLE WITH A SMALL PRICE TO PAY,I LOVE MY SUZUKI
Different in Japan
Bought mine in Japan from a friend who recently divorced and needed the cash. Only 2300 miles on it at the time. Great SUV with luxury Helly Hansen package, (not available in US). CD/MD 7-speaker stereo system is outstanding. I drive very steep and long hills to teach English at several locations weekly. The 2.7 V-6 handles the hills without breaking a sweat. Great Ride! I love it.