Neither the first nor the second generation of the Suzuki XL7 is an original product. The former was nothing more than an extra-large, 7-passenger Grand Vitara — hence the name XL7.
The latter, meanwhile, is the result of a partnership with General Motors. Largely based on the Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent, it uses the same architecture and powertrain as well as a similar interior layout. Once again, the platform was extended to add a pair of seats. The final result fails to impress.
Fancy headlights
The first thing that strikes you about this Suzuki is the shape of the headlights. Designers sure made a bold move, but it does not pay off in terms of overall elegance.
While the interior might lack originality, I found it clean and purposefully-executed. Fit and finish is commendable, although material quality could be improved.
Once you get used to the peculiar styling and explore the inside of the XL7, you’ll find a surprisingly comprehensive list of standard features. With regard to the understated dashboard, the instruments are easy to read and the various controls are easy to manipulate. Some of them, however, are oddly positioned, like the power window controls.
Like a good old wagon
If you’re old enough (like me) to remember sitting in the big family wagons of the ’70s and ’80s, you will definitely feel in familiar territory. Access is just as easy for both the front and rear passengers — but no so much when you want to get to the third row, as was the case back then. It’s not that big a deal, however, since those seats take a huge chunk out of the cargo area.
Moreover, all the seats in the Suzuki XL7 stay true to the disco era; they are soft and unsupportive. Plus, the cushions are too short for normal-size occupants. Finding a good driving position is hard, while the suspension is too stiff at times. What’s more, the engine is fairly noisy, particularly under acceleration.
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