2002 Suzuki XL-7 (377)

Overview:

This week’s review is the Suzuki XL-7 mid size sport utility. It is affordable to buy and even a little better on gas consumption than other larger SUV’s. But like all 4-wheel drive vehicles you expect lower numbers here.

It is rather nice looking, has a beefier build than other Suzuki products and more powerful with a 2.7 liter V6 engine. It is a long stretch from the early days of the Samurai that scared me to drive. It is very unstable with a narrow track and high center of gravity. The little 2-door Vitara looks to be simply the renaming of an old dog, but I haven’t driven it. Memories are obviously lasting. I must admit however that Suzuki did help pave the way to more affordable SUV’s and that little Samurai put Suzuki on the map in the America.

Surely this second year model of the XL-7 is a nice addition and improvement in affordable mid size SUV’s on the market today. I believe as a family car the mini van is a better option to the SUV but some shy away from the accompanying “soccer mom” image of a van. Thus they go for the less fuel efficient SUV and 4-WD capability they will never use anyway. Go figure.

I heard it said that although the XL-7 doesn’t have a more prestigious nameplate it does a nice job of combining utility, comfort, performance and ruggedness. And of course I have to add, affordably.

Handling & Performance:

Performance is not bad for normal driving but if you push the limits you feel and hear the straining of the engine. It handles nicely and doesn’t have that top-heavy feeling of the Samurai that left its mark on my memory. It is also surprisingly comfortable and provides a smooth ride on good highways. Naturally it won’t handle those potholes as well as its larger, more expensive competitors.

Styling:

Very nice. This largest of the Suzuki fleet has clean and classy lines. Not what I had expected. The interior is also very comparable with most other SUV’s with much higher price tags.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. This will surprise you.

Conveniences:

Very good for the money.

Cost:

Because it is a mid size SUV that is roomy and comfortable, it is apparent you really don’t have to spend more money to get the job done. Very well priced.

Consumer Recommendation:

In the market for a Sport Utility? I would definitely include this XL-7 in my test drive line-up. Perhaps the closest competitor is the Mazda Tribute from the numbers but I like this XL-7 a little better.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Generally a nice job. But for the US market put the hinges on the opposite side of the cargo door so it opens away from the curb for ease of loading and it’s safer too. I found little else to complain about.

The competition:

Chevrolet Tracker $16-22,000, Ford Escape $19-26,000, Mazda Tribute $18-24,000, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $23-33,000.

Good News:

Well-priced, nice styling, smooth ride, comfortable and affordable. Seats up to seven with third row seating.

Bad News:

Engine strains when pushed and a little noisy, rear door opens to the curb, but then they drive on the left side in Japan.

Standard Equipment:

2.7 liter 183 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, power brakes and steering, shift on the fly 4-wheel drive, air conditioning, stereo with CD player, power windows/locks and heated mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, child safety locks, tilt steering wheel.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,799.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com