Everything is Improved, Almost
Suzuki engineers have addressed the biggest failing in their mid-size sport utility for 2004, but it still fell a few horsepower short of the mark.
Since its debut a few years ago, the XL-7 has garnered a well-earned reputation as a solid, well-built SUV, the perfect city runaround/camping vehicle for those in the market for the functionality of a sport-ute without the associated girth.
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| The Suzuki XL-7 has garnered a well-earned reputation as a solid, well-built SUV. (Photo: Suzuki) |
The one thing it's always lacked in terms of the competition, however, is a decently powered engine up to the task of hauling cargo -- human and otherwise -- over hill and dale. Despite featuring a six-cylinder powerplant, the XL-7 just didn't measure up.
So, I was hardly surprised when I read in the 2004 XL-7 press notes that the new model had 'increased horsepower.' The only problem is that the engineers squeezed an anemic two additional horsepower and nominal four pound-feet of torque from the same 2.7-litre engine. And while there is truth in the advertising, there isn't any significant change in the performance of the SUV - instead of 183, the new model boasts 185 ponies.
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| Apart from more output, the biggest change to the 2004 model is a much-needed 'freshening' of the exterior. (Photo: Suzuki) |
Apart from, ahem, more output, the biggest change to the 2004 model is a much-needed 'freshening' of the exterior, though even that is a half-measure attempt.
The new 'sport styling' has essentially transformed what was a very boxy SUV to a somewhat boxy SUV. For the record, and again I defer to the press notes, "exterior enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, rear license plate garnish and new Euro-style headlamps and tail lenses with dark chrome-painted bezels that enrich its exterior look.'