Suzuki may be a small player in the global automotive scene-- but they’re a brand that’s big on fun and recreation, not to mention responsible for some of the most highly sought-after products in the enthusiast off-road community. The Japanese manufacturer has a history of building some solid vehicles, and they’ve got extensive experience with 4x4 and utility models, too. If you know an avid weekend off-roader, chances are they’ve got some kind of Suzuki related story about a Sidekick or Samurai that still bombs around in the dirt reliably.
Considerably bigger and more versatile than the above-mentioned models was the Suzuki XL7. A family-ready four-wheel drive, this machine was sought after for its reasonable pricing and real-world off-road prowess. Unlike many All Wheel Drive (AWD) ‘cute utes’, the XL7 got a real 4x4 system with low range, tough ‘body-on-frame’ construction and relatively short overhangs that made it ideal for doing some climbing. Ultimately, the 2001 to 2006 iteration of the XL7 was both competitively priced and very confident when the going got rough.
Of course, the XL7 wasn’t a machine engineered for high-performance motoring or feats of extreme comfort and refinement-- though as an all-around performer that’s happy to tow a boat or tackle a trail, it should impress.
Under the hood, look for a 2.7-litre V6 engine with 170 horsepower in 2001, and up to 185 horsepower between 2002 and 2006. Earlier models got a five-speed manual transmission as standard, while a four or five-speed automatic was otherwise available or standard depending on the year.
Features included leather seating, 7-passenger seating, fog lamps, alloy wheels, heated mirrors, tinted glass, a sunroof, automatic climate control and an in-dash CD changer. Shoppers looking to customize can check out off-road accessories, wheels, tires and performance parts, too.
Though the XL7 wasn’t a massive seller, numerous owners have taken to the internet to share their thoughts, likes and dislikes. Most of these owners say that Suzuki’s SUV attracted them by offering plenty of space and equipment for the price-- a trait that should hold true in the used market, too. Other positives stated included the manual-shift transfer case, availability of a manual transmission, and the 7-passenger seating. Most also report great ride quality and driveability, a comfortable interior, and a commanding view of the road ahead.
 |
| 2001 Suzuki XL7 (Photo: Suzuki) |
Considerably bigger and more versatile than the above-mentioned models was the Suzuki XL7. A family-ready four-wheel drive, this machine was sought after for its reasonable pricing and real-world off-road prowess. Unlike many All Wheel Drive (AWD) ‘cute utes’, the XL7 got a real 4x4 system with low range, tough ‘body-on-frame’ construction and relatively short overhangs that made it ideal for doing some climbing. Ultimately, the 2001 to 2006 iteration of the XL7 was both competitively priced and very confident when the going got rough.
Of course, the XL7 wasn’t a machine engineered for high-performance motoring or feats of extreme comfort and refinement-- though as an all-around performer that’s happy to tow a boat or tackle a trail, it should impress.
Under the hood, look for a 2.7-litre V6 engine with 170 horsepower in 2001, and up to 185 horsepower between 2002 and 2006. Earlier models got a five-speed manual transmission as standard, while a four or five-speed automatic was otherwise available or standard depending on the year.
Features included leather seating, 7-passenger seating, fog lamps, alloy wheels, heated mirrors, tinted glass, a sunroof, automatic climate control and an in-dash CD changer. Shoppers looking to customize can check out off-road accessories, wheels, tires and performance parts, too.
Though the XL7 wasn’t a massive seller, numerous owners have taken to the internet to share their thoughts, likes and dislikes. Most of these owners say that Suzuki’s SUV attracted them by offering plenty of space and equipment for the price-- a trait that should hold true in the used market, too. Other positives stated included the manual-shift transfer case, availability of a manual transmission, and the 7-passenger seating. Most also report great ride quality and driveability, a comfortable interior, and a commanding view of the road ahead.
 |
| 2003 Suzuki XL7 (Photo: Suzuki) |