A 5-speed manual transmission is also standard while a commendable 4-speed automatic is optional. The transmission drives through standard part-time 4-wheel drive with automatic-locking and unlocking front hubs and shift-on-the-fly capability between 2 and 4-wheel drive (high range only), also rare in this compact class. When on a difficult patch of road, pulling back on a floor-mounted lever directly beside the shifter engages the XL-7's low gearing range, allowing the vehicle to literally crawl over obstacles that stand in its way. That said, the XL-7 doesn't have the ground clearance of its little Vitara brothers and its 329 mm (13 in) longer wheelbase can cause it to get hung up when going through deep dips or climbing over roots and protruding rocks. But how many of its buyers are really going to go off-road? In the real world, its lower ground clearance aids in street and highway handling which is much improved over the Grand Vitara. More good news is that the extra length that makes going off-road more challenging, actually smoothes out its ride over uneven pavement - improving overall comfort.
With comfort in mind, the XL-7 is attractively laid out and well put together on the inside. The biggest news for 2002 is it's availability with standard 5-person occupancy - 7 seats are now an option. Standard JX trim includes power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote entry, air-conditioning, CD player, tilt steering, chrome plated door handles, centre armrests for front and middle row seats, a cargo area cover, roof rails, spare tire cover, block heater, rear wiper/washer, 4-wheel ABS brakes and more. Moving up to the JLX gets you cruise control, heated mirrors, aluminum wheels and a hard spare tire cover. Also in JLX trim, the 7-seat option can be ordered and rear A/C is standard. The top-line XL-7 Limited includes heated leather seats plus leather wrapped steering wheel, shifter and transfer case knob, woodgrain trim, a power sunroof, rear spoiler, halogen fog lights and a gun-metallic grey instrument panel.