Used 2009 Suzuki XL7 Consumer Reviews
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2008 XL7
I love this vehicle. I bought it with 35,000 miles in 2011. It's been 3 years and 50,000 miles later and I still love it. The body is holding up well (no rust, no peeling paint...still looks great!). The engine is holding up well (no leaks, sounds good, etc.). The interior leather, etc. is still in excellent condition. Overall, I have no complaints. It's not a luxury make, but I didn't have to pay a luxury price.
I relate..Good&Bad.
The bad-Reading through these reviews has opened my eyes to a few things..i tried opening my pass side door and found myself standing outside of the vehicle holding the door handle in my hand,I see others have had the same thing happen and my locks can be tricky sometimes & now i realize the locks must not be great to begin with if its happening on other xl-7's...and my last complaint is the fenders i read others have had their fenders start to pull out of place which has happened on both front fenders of my Suzuki. The good- It has amazing space,3rd row. My kids can control their heat/air from the back seat & the vents are on the roof so they dnt play with them,they stay in the position i put them in. I like the rear wiper blade,nice to have in a 3d row to make it easier to see in snow/rain. There is a charger port in backseat as well,comes in handy for kids & their electronics. Alot of Space when putting dwn the seats. Back hatch opens very nice but i had one problem with it slowly shutting itself only happened one time. I bought my Suzuki used & over 5 yrs old but have read that even a few yrs newer have the same issues..Locks/Fenders/Door Handle/Sensors. So it must be a common problem and i wldnt purchase this vehicle for any more than half of the price its worth bc of the problems but i do recommend buying it if its at a low cost or reduced price,bc it seems to have no major issues and is a nice family vehicle when all the little things aren't going wrong. Thanks everyone Your reviews really helped me understand my vehicle & that im not at fault for those things.
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- Luxury 4dr SUVMSRP: $13,999744 mi away
Excellent SUV
This is a follow-up review I posted at 22,000 miles under the name "Michael." Now I have 64,000 miles on this vehicle and am just as impressed as I was back then. I have had almost no problems (still original brakes) and consider the performance superb. The best features are: acceleration, smooth power transfer, handling, stability and reliability. The only repairs I had was to replace the driver's door handle twice and replace the anti-sway bar bushing and links, but this is a small price to pay for an otherwise excellent vehicle. It needs quality tires like Goodyear CS Assurance TripleTred for good handling.
XL-7: STILL much more than expected.
I bought/ leased the XL-7 because it was a great deal and my friend recommended the car based on his positive experiences with an older model. When the lease was up, I purchased the car outright! It has served me very well for over 11 years. Over the first 8 years there was only a minor glitch (timing chain kit needed replaced) which was taken care of by the warranty, and I had to replace the hatch supports. Just recently, however, I had to have the timing chain kit replaced again after only two years. No warranty coverage this time and it wasn't cheap. $2000! Additionally, the wheel bearings on the front wheels also needed replacing. And the hatch struts had to be replaced again. I was not happy. Inferior replacement parts, perhaps? Other than that the car continues to be reliable. It seats seven adults, though the rear seat should be reserved for smaller folks or kids. I've had three teenage girls ride comfortably back there! It rides comfortably and fairly quietly; it has an extraordinary number of standard feature not usually found on a base model. And it can be used to haul a LOT of stuff if you choose to put all the seats down. The gas mileage is not great - 15-17 around town and 22-28 on the highway. But it has, otherwise been a low-maintenance vehicle. A great family car.
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Super Suzuki
No SUV with better interior space! Interior has held up very well! Nearly 200,000 miles and only basic maintenance!
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Great SUV for the money
Bought this car used as an import from the States. My wife insisted on a vehicle with leather, 7 seats and AWD. The car has been completely problem free since we bought it over 2 years ago. Oil changes cost a ton but are miles apart because it requires synthetic oil. We have put over 50K (Miles not Kilometres) on the vehicle since we bought it. It does lack sex appeal and the interior feels cheap. But after a bit we have become very comfortable with the car and are very happy I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.
A lot for the money
I was looking for a midsize SUV for around 30k, and drove almost all the competition. When I saw the XL7 I figured let me take this for a ride, it really was not high on my list. But after looking at all the features you get for the money, it probably is the best value on the market. It has a solid but smooth ride, great pickup and has nice style both in and out. It has one of the best warranties in the market, very little maintenance. It even has a timing chain, instead of a belt, so you don't have that periodic $500+ expense. Although 7 passengers is a stretch, 5 or 6 can fit fine.
Would definitely buy it all over again!
I upgraded from the Grand Vitara to the XL7 to accommodate our growing family and the extra space in the back is shockingly roomy! I can fit a large baby stroller, suitcases, and dogs all in the back together at once. My husband has even been impressed with the smooth car like ride and roominess. I love the acceleration too! It's power is definitely understated since it moves much better than many other SUVs I've driven.
Love this Car!
I have driven, for the past ten years Saabs, and before that, Mercedes. When it was time to replace my 9 5 Saab station wagon, I looked around. By chance I rented an XL7 for a weekend to haul some things, I fell in love with the car, smooth, powerful, compfortable, stylish, and well finished. Also, the price was great, with 4600 miles, paid 60% of list. This is a great car, in a little over a month have put on 4,000 miles, and they have been much more enjoyable than in my Saab or Mercedes. Great, great car!
Not reliable
I thought I had found the perfect car when I purchased my XL-7 three years ago. I couldn't get rid of it fast enough after 30,000 miles. The little things that should happen at 70,000 miles happen at 25,000 miles with this car. The paint peels, the locks break, the levers fall apart, lights and sensors come on. The factory tires are aweful. Not a good value.
Why???
I have a house in Colorado I use just about every long weekend or vacation I have. After years of renting a car and paying their fees, I decided to buy one. The idiot in me decided to buy a car over the internet and not test drive it. Unfortunately, it was the XL7. It had decent reviews online, a great warranty, it was cheap, and looked pretty good. But after 6,000, my thoughts have changed. The engine struggles around 65mph, and is full on panting at 70mph. The altitude may play a roll in this, but not that much. The car is put together well, but everything is a hard, hollow plastic. I get the MPG they say of around 17-19 Highway. Best Bet: if you are looking at a new car, get an Acadia
Love my XL7!!
I knew I had to have the XL7 as soon as my husband and I test drove it!! I love the room it has inside. The third row is so convenient. The storage is great and it rides really good. My daughter even loves it! Not too big and not too small. Perfect size for the three of us. Had no trouble out of it so far. I LOVE my XL7!
LOVE MY XL7!!!!
I bought my XL7 close to a year ago and its the best car that I have ever driven! I had a Jeep Grand Cherokee before this car so I wasn't sure how I was going to like the AWD compared to the 4 wheel drive but it handles really well. I have never worried about getting places and I've driven in pretty deep snow drifts. My husband has to keep reminding me about the speed limit because this car just wants to go! The ride is comfortable and my Grandma likes it because its easy for her to get in and out. I wish Suzuki would keep making these because I would buy this car over and over again!
Surprised
After test driving several vehicles, the Suzuki stuck in my mind better than any other. The size, and agility were the most impressive. I have no problem downshifting to help pass on the highway. Around town is fun to drive too.
Safe!
I've only had positive experiences with this vehicle. It had a good, higher powered engine that was fun to drive and could accelerate faster than most similarly priced SUVs. Very smooth ride and great traction even in snow. Felt like you were riding on a cloud! Stood out on the road with its unique lights and grill, too. Gas mileage left a little to be desired though. The main purpose of this review is to praise the safety of the vehicle though. The car was broadsided during a left turn directly in the drivers door by a sedan going over 50 mph. The side air bags and door impact frames absorbed the blow completely. We were thankfully able to walk away with no damage whatsoever.
Nightmare
Nightmare from day one! On the way home after purchase shimmy in the front brakes. Had to true rotors. Transfer case and left axle seals leaking. A/c quit had to replace havc head. Cd player quit had to replace radio/cd unit. Driver door was sticking had to adjust. Horn quit had to replace. Wipers quit had to replace wiper control. Had mold coming out of air vents had to replace evap coil in the a/c. Esp and traction control quit working had to replace hydraulic control unit. My just found new problem is my tire pressure monitoring system. My rf reads as my rr and vice versa. This is my story! I can't use the lemon law because they are all different problems! All these nice reviews. Why me?
Having problems
Purchased XL7 June 09 for $14K with 23K & now have less than 39K miles. The vehicle is well maintained. So far, its been returned to dealer for repairs under warrenty to A/C not cooling & 2 door lock actuators not working. The tires began to wear, so I paid for new tires & alignment in April 2010, which I thought was to soon. On aug 15, 2010, I opened the back side door & the exterior door handle came off in my hand. I drove to the nearest Suzuki dealer & was told that it was not under warrenty. Called Suzuki of America & their Region Rep took a look at it & said that no "goodwill" would be provided. Suzuki needs honor their vehicles quality & repair the door handle at no cost to me.
My worst purchase ever
When I purchased this vehicle, I was not looking for an SUV. Due to the fact that there was a $5000 rebate, and I was promised by the dealership that "they" would furnish free tires for life as long as I owned the vehicle. Within the first two weeks of owning the car, the dealership closed, so all promises were off. At 55,000 miles, every light on the dash came on. The timing chain and a wheel barren had to be replaced. The lights continued to come on, they replaced a motor mount. There is an annoying constant noise in the steering, warranty does not cover this, and the front driver's side fender comes loose every time the car is driven. American Suzuki is not willing to buy the junk back.
sun roof leak
this car is great but I would never ever buy another Suzuki because the sun roof leaks all the time and the interior is soaked with water coming in all the lights overhead. Have had it to the dealer 5 times with no help. I am totally disgusted and will never buy another Suzuki product. I have talked to 8 other people with the same sun roof problem with no success.
This is an excellent SUV
I purchased this vehicle with 9800 miles. It now has 22,000 miles after 7 months. My wife owns an RX 300 and I have had Saabs for 25 years. Previous to that I had a Corvette and Volvo and my most recent vehicle was a fully loaded Montana mini-van. I mention this in way of letting you know my past experience as a way of evaluating my judgment. This XL7 is a remarkable vehicle. It has performed flawlessly. Is is very fast because of the horsepower, torgue and perfect match to an excellent transmission. Braking is excellent. Road handling is superb. (My son had trouble keeping up with me in his Subaru WRX on a curvy road.) The XL7 wants to run at 80 mph, is very quiet and has a smooth ride.
Likin' it so far...
Bought it to tow a trailer from CA to SD in addition to the good cargo space. Did great. Got 23-24 mpg with trailer. Mileage is very responsive to speed. If you don't speed, the mileage increases, go figure! Car has been great for the couple months I've had it and made the long trip without a hitch(figuratively).
Love it!!!!!!!
I wanted to buy honda CRV until l test drive XL7 2008. I fell in love with it. The price was half CRV and has great warranty. I recommend it to all.
More Than Satisfied
I’m a new driver and I needed a reliable SUV with AWD to be able to survive an upstate New York winter, since I attend college there, so me and my family did some searching around. We came across an ‘08 XL7 with about 130k miles on it going for $4,000 and were kinda doubtful because of the high mileage. But my dad took it for a test drive and it was, in his words, “the best car on the lot.” He bought it and I finally drove it the next month after arriving home for winter break (and even after a month of not doing much it still felt great). It was such a smooth ride and it was quieter than what I expected from a V6. Maintenance isn’t super expensive on it which is perfect for my family’s financial situation, and other than a faulty alarm system where my remotes won’t work even though the batteries and circuit boards inside are fine (I’m sure this is a problem exclusive to my car so don’t let this ruin your first impression), it’s perfect for a first car. If you see one, don’t pass up the chance to test drive it – or dare I say – to buy it.
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A lot of vehicle for the money
I found this vehicle rides like a car and is very comfortable. I tow a 21'boat on a tandem trailer and love the self leveling shocks. The all wheel drive coupled with the manual shift feature covers a wide range of driving situations. The seven year 100,000 mile power train warranty provides long time peace of mind. The automatic ac works beautifully and was an extra not expected in a vehicle of this price. The ride and responsiveness is a joy and pleasure. One negative is the rear hatch visibility but I find the excellent side view mirrors make up for it.
Just bought stinky old one!
I LOVE THIS THING! Got it for $1500 with 137k miles on it. Upstate NY. TINY amount of rust. Owner was a smoking slob! STIIIINNNKY!! Will have it detailed in the spring. Feels tight, runs VERY strong. Afraid to open power sunroof right now. Dead of winter. Blower switch blows only high speed. Bought part. Hopefully fix when warmer out. Heated seats work! Radio sounds "tinny". I love driving this thing! I call it "The Beast". Worst thing about it is that it REALLY is hard to see out the back window!! Think I might get aftermarket rear camera for it.
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Excellent for the money
I love my Suzuki XL7. The only thing I do not like is that the rear visibility is poor. I had to purchase a rear camera after rear ending a my bicycle.
Yes a steal compared to the competition
Best bang for the buck, looked at much smaller suv's with zero room behind the supposed 3rd row that's built for a dog or cat, oh and if your kids are in the third row and your hit from behind, good luck! Anyway needed something that the kids or an adult could could actually sit comfortably and with room behind the third row for luggage, groceries, etc. This was it! With the rebates and incentives they took 8k off sticker! You cannot buy anything like this at that price!
Beware of Suzuki
I did alot of research before purchasing a new car, and intially did not think about a Suzuki, but the dealer had this for a fantastic price with very little mileage. Since it was my first nice car I went for it, and was excited but now 2 years later I couldn't be more disappointed. In the past few month the paint has started to crack, and chip off in big chunks on the roof and hood, but Suzuki will not fix it because it is out of its 36000 mile warranty, even though it is obviously a manufacturer defect. I am very frustrated with Suzuki, and for this problem alone would not recommend buying from them.
decent suv for the price
I picked up a used 2008 xl7 with 28000 miles for about 14,500 reviews were ok so i decided to buy it. So far the suv is pretty good i have a little complaint about a noise when you turn and a couple of little stuff but not major. Finish on this vehicle is not the best everything is plastic and feels cheap. But on the bright side it rides very well decent fuel economy (24) on the highway and for the price you cant beat it.
"S" is for super
Looked for a long time at SUV's and decided not to buy because of price. Saw the XL-7 in a parking lot and thought it looked cool. With incentives I got XL-7 for about $9K less tha a similarly equipped Toyota or Honda. I drove it cross country and averaged 24 mpg while traveling 75 mph. I have had no complaints with fit and trim although engine noise was present during break in. Only thing I would change is the power seats need to be eight way vs six.
Just Purchased and Lovin it!
After shopping around, my friend suggested the XL7, and I am glad I looked. I was amazed at the features that were included with the car and such a great price! It's sporty and stylish, yet roomy enough for my entire family. Great car for an amazing price.
great ride
I love this car. The first time I seen it I had to have it. We had a Mitsubishi evo and I didn't like the no room in the car. But this car I have room a lot of room. I watch children and I can fit them in my car if I have to go anywhere. This is the best car for me and I love it. The space in the back of the third row can be roomy if you removed the cargo tray. It will be much deeper and give you quite more room. I have noth9 ing negative about this car. I will have it forever.
The real crossover for Suzuki
Stylish and drives like any other SUVs. Comfortable and reliable. I have been driving for a year now and never been tired or bored except of the air cutting thru.
Saved $10000 at Least!
We had been looking at purchasing a car to replace an aging (84K) 2003 Cavalier. Our search took us into used car territory. It turns out that a company in Ohio, which leases these things to rental companies, was trimming the fat due to the economy. Our model had 10400 miles on it and was in service less than twelve months. We need this kind of room. Our other car is a KIA Spectra. Almost monthly, we are on the road to Nashville. Getting stuck in Atlanta traffic will almost be a pleasure. I am over six foot one, and my wife is five ten. There is so much room; and for the price and reliability this machine is unsurpassed. It's an even better deal at the price we paid!
Entire Engine Replacement- big HASSLE
We had the car for 1.5 yrs when the engine light came on and it started making noises (less than 12,000 miles). Already been at the Suz. dealership for 5 days for repairs and now they tell me it needs an entire engine replacement which will take another 7 days. So- 12 days w/out a car. Since it's under 36000 miles, they'll pay $30/day for rental car for 5 days only-- but that won't fit my 3 carseats (that's why I bought the 7 seater XL7)-- and minivan rentals are over $100 per day. Big HASSLE for single mom w/3 kids. Wish I bought that Honda/Toyota minivan or SUV after all. Already has some other minor issues previously.
Great price and fun to drive
I bought this car for my wife and I'm not dissapointed. The XL-7 looks great inside and out I would recommended to family and friends planning to buy a great mid-size SUV!
What A Change For The Better
I just bought my 2008 XL7 2 weeks ago. I had been drivng a pickup for the last serveral years. I feel like I am in heaven now drive this new ride. My wife has the SX4 Sport and we love it. Now we have two Suzuki products and do not plan on getting any other for a very long time. Plus I got at a great price. From rebates and customer cash back I am paying less than I was on the truck. And it turns heads. I have had several people ask me about it. I even had a guy in his (Acura SUV)the other day tell me that it was a "very sharp ride man".
Nice Ride!
I bought my Suzuki with only 6,000 miles on it and love it so far (have only had it a couple of weeks). I had never looked at a Suzuki before let alone test drive one but once I did I knew it would be the perfect car for my family. It has everything that I want...heated seats...moonroof...and I especially love the jack for mu IPOD..there are a lot of vehicles out there that do not have this feature. I got a really good deal on mine, originally a $30k vehicle. I love the third row seats and the storage compartment in the back floor. The second row seat has plenty of legroom and the seats are raised so it's more comfortable for taller people like myself (5'10). I give this vehicle an A+!!
So Far So Good
No problems with comfort, performance, reliability. Gas milage pretty good for a big SUV. Single CD player is quirky and will have to have it serviced(stops playing and cd won't eject). Purchased at dealer as an Executive use vechicle with 4,600 miles on it. Well kept by user. Overall is pleasant and comfortable to drive. Has good pickup when needed. I generally drive under speed limits on highways to save on gas. Good cargo space. No third row on this one. No complaints. I've owned Hyundai Sante Fe & Nissan Xterra and like this SUV better than both, although the Sante Fe is also a very good value for the price.
What a deal.
I bought my XL7 in Dec 08 with 96 miles on it. For the money there is not a better deal. The motor has amazing power and it moves much quicker than you think. In upstate New York the AWD was a must with over 114" of snow a year. I never managed to get it stuck. I never thought of buying a Suk, we where looking at Jeep Commander, after reading reviews I made much better choice. The 3.7 Liter in the Commander was way underpowered. I have 3 kids, its comfortable and fun to drive. I would have spent much more for a similiar SUV.
Look out AWDs there's a new kid in town
I was looking for an SUV/Cross Over that had lots of room, some bells & whistles, and a nice ride for a good price. After two months of looking I chose the Suzuki XL7. I found a used 2008 with just over 10,000 miles for under $16,000. It has good engine power, huge cargo capacity, and is a pleasure to drive. It has plenty of amenities right down to the padded area below the ignition so your keys won't make noise as they hit the steering column. It's very comfortable and handles great. On a recent trip we averaged 26mpg with the air on for half the trip. We get 17mpg around town. The AWD will come in handy in the winter here in PA. Be sure to test drive one of these before you buy.
I love my XL7
I have mainly owned Toyotas. Prior to the XL7 I had a Sienna XLE. I loved that van and didn't think I would ever want a different vehicle. When I had the opportunity to drive the XL7 for several days I knew that was the SUV for me. I haven't been disappointed yet!!
Great bargain SUV
Purchased a 2008 luxury trim model for the wife. So far, so good. She likes the comfy seats with heaters and the ride is smooth and car-like. The AWD is a Godsend on our horrific unfinished roads. Smooth, powerful 3.6L engine with excellent 5 speed auto trans.
Great SUV
Bought the vehicle used with 9K miles on it from the dealer. The car new was 30K and I paid half that. This is my 3rd Suzuki vehicle. Presently still has 2003 XL-7 with 96K(runs great). The car has fantasitc power, smooth tranny and is confortable to drive. The fact that the car is AWD is a big plus in the snow. Interior quality, fit and feel are just fine for me. I have pulled my boat with my 2003 XL7 without a problem and the extra 70+ HP will prove to be a great addition. 22MPG in the highway and about 18MPG around town. At this point I could not be happier.
Tickled with XL7
Just bought mine used (6,000 Miles) from a major dealer. Great style, power and interior space. Love the fit and finish and bought it for 40% less than list at new. Great car for kids, w/side airbages and plenty of storage.
Crossover to Susuki
Before I purchased my Susuki I drove a Lexus RX300. I could not afford to buy another Lexus but wanted all the bells and whistles of my Lexus. I would never thought to have even test drove a Susuki but when I did I was hooked. I knew that I was going to purchase the car. I have two kids and love the 3rd row seating. The storage is great. It has a lot of pep and my husband likes the duel exhaust. I really like the interior. I love the red and white lights. I actually like the window switches in the middle console. I know some people in other reviews did not like that...to each their own. I would at least recommend someone to test drive the Susuki XL7 before making a final purchase.
Love it! (so far)
After looking at many, many choices for an SUV to replace our family Caravan, I had exhausted just about every option and was destined to pay 30K+ for an SUV that had all the options I wanted in a family transport. I happened to glimpse an XL7 while eating at a fast food place one day. I didn't even consider Suzuki as an option, but started doing some research and decided to chose something "out of the box". I have to say I've not been dissapointed. It's been a great SUV and was well within my budget with all the "bells & whistles" a much more expensive Acadia or GMC, Tahoe or Yukon would have been.
Suzuki hits a Home Run!
We looked at the Mazda 9, very nice, looked at Honda Pilot/CRV and Toyota RAV and Highlander, and the Hyundai Santa Fe/Veracruz, nice also. But when you compare all of the features and standard stuff, the Suzuki really blows them away. Adding the no deductible, 7 year 100,000 mile warranty, free loan car, that covers exerything except the battery and tires! Even a burned out bulb is covered! Amazing. And the Japanese made GM motor is smooth and powerful, and all the safety stuff gets is a 5 star rating.
Excellent choice
I have been eying the XL7 for some time now. I owned an Aerio SX but I was hit by an elderly woman and it was totaled. I was in Japan for 3 years and all I saw was Suzuki cars every where. Hardly any Hondas. So when i got back to the States I went to the dealership offered $19000 and i drove it off the lot. I have no complaints, rides smooth and it looks good. I would call it a crossover before an SUV.
Why I bought one?
I read all of the guru's comments as well as consumers. Believe the CONSUMERS. I own BMW's, Hummers2's,Cadillacs,Corvettes and now a GREAT Suzuki XL7. While being a low cost vehicle I purchased one, and found it to be exciting to drive with 33mpg hwy first time driven with exciting performance! Comfortable ride,roomy,and one of the best buy vehicles in the market. The warranty is second to none, and you will be pleased with the cost of purchase too! Sometimes the guru's compare to many cars to really understand what people are looking for. And try and compare apples and oranges. BUY ONE