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| (Photo: Alain Raymond) |
This sophisticated suspension is helped by standard disc brakes with antilocking (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and traction control. More importantly, the XL7 also has an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which plays a major role in the active safety of all passengers by keeping the vehicle in the driver's intended path when the front and/or rear wheels begin to skid. On top of that, Suzuki added as a standard feature an anti-rollover system which is crucial in a vehicle with a high center of gravity. Thusly equipped, the Suzuki XL7 will mitigate the effects of one's recklessness and another one's blunders. And if you persist in defying the laws of physics, you will have to rely on the seven safety belts, the two front airbags and the side curtain airbags. One last word about safety : the XL7 includes a tire pressure monitoring system. Very useful!
Inside, occupants will appreciate the comfortable and spacious layout as
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| (Photo: Alain Raymond) |
well as the soberness of the design. In my tester, which was equipped with satellite radio and a voice-activated navigation system, the list of features was really comprehensive. In addition, the careful sound-proofing of the interior allowed me to fully enjoy the good quality audio system. I had one complaint though: the build quality of some dashboard panels was disappointing.
Offered with FWD or AWD, the Suzuki XL7 lineup is divided into four different trims : JX, JLX, JLX DVD and JLX Navi. The last two ones come standard with AWD.
As for the price, it ranges from $30,995 to $37,995, excluding destination and delivery ($1,295).
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| (Photo: Alain Raymond) |
What I like :Comprehensive features
Nice road manners
Competitive price
What I don't like :Fit and finish (could be improved)
Fuel economy, especially in city traffic
No handholds at the front
