Suzuki XL7

Step inside this Suzuki MPV and the first thing that would catch your eyes is the giant touchscreen display embedded at the center of the dashboard. The 10-inch infotainment display comes with a built-in navigation system and is compatible with both Android and Apple devices. On the left is the three-spoke steering wheel as the foreground to the meter cluster with a 4.2-inch full-color LCD between the speedometer and the tachometer that shows useful car information to the driver like torque, power, G force, door status, etc. You would also be pleasantly surprised by the ample space. Overlooking the main fabric upholstery with leather accents at the sides, the seats are wide enough and provide sufficient legroom and headroom. Pocket storage for small knickknacks, drinks, and gadgets are scattered throughout the XL7. It even has a ventilated cup holder beneath the center console which is a plus especially if you prefer your drinks cold. Connectivity is handled by Bluetooth and USB while 12V accessory sockets are available in all three rows.

The Suzuki XL7 takes design inspirations from the SUV. It’s rugged and strong exterior begins with the bold design of the bumper that features a massive front grille flanked by LED combination headlights with daytime running lights. Interestingly, the chrome strip accent flows seamlessly to the DRL which resembles a katana sword. On the sides are aerodynamic creases and black fenders and molding that wraps throughout the bottom of the vehicle. It also features silver accents that go with the front and rear chrome under guard. On top are an old school antenna and roof rails. And no, this Suzuki for all its efforts to look like an SUV, seems to forget to include a rear spoiler to complete a rugged SUV look. The XL7 rides on a set of 16-inch polished alloy wheels wrapped in 195/ 60 R16 tires and comes in four color options: Sunrise Orange, Brave Khaki, Magma Gray, and Snow White. The Suzuki XL7 measures 4,450 mm long, 1,775 mm wide, 1,710 mm tall, a wheelbase of 2,740 mm, and minimum ground clearance of 200 mm.

The Suzuki XL7 handles well and is very responsive. You would be pleasantly surprised at how the MPV shifts smoothly and comply on-demand when it comes to acceleration. The engine is refined and quick to react. However, some drivers complain of slightly long braking distances and clumsy turns in tight spots because of its wide turning radius at 5.2 meters. In terms of riding comfort, the broad width of the MPV offers wider seats and ample leg and headspace. Though the overall length of this Suzuki MPV is smaller, the shorter wheelbase of the XL7 makes up for it so the legroom on the vehicle is comparable to other 7-seater MPV in the local market. The width of the XL7 is dramatically less than say the Xpander Cross but is actually wider than the more popular Honda BRV which gives passengers ample space to sit comfortably. And as always with these kinds of SUV crossovers that want to maximize space, the third-row legroom remains a conundrum. Best to just keep it folded for more luggage space or have young kids occupy those seats especially when traveling for long distances. Moreover, the XL7 has commendable insulation that absorbs noise to keep the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) at low levels.

The Suzuki XL7 is powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder 16 valve engine that delivers a maximum output of 103 hp at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm of maximum torque at 4,400 rpm. The K15 B 1,462cc petrol engine uses a multipoint injection fuel distribution system and is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. With a front-wheel drive, this Suzuki MPV clocks in an EPA fuel economy rate of 17 mpg or 7.23 kmpl in city driving and 24 mpg or 10.20 kmpl when driving on the highway.

The safety of the XL7 is embedded in its design. The main design of the cabin uses what Suzuki coins as Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) that absorbs and disperses energy in an event of a collision to minimize injury and damage to the vehicle. Even the front bumper structure has a pedestrian injury mitigating design to absorb impact and lessen head and leg injury in an event of a collision with a pedestrian. When it comes to stopping power, the XL7 is fitted with a ventilated disc at the front and leading and trailing drum at the rear. The brakes are enhanced by the antilock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution function to ensure the driver gets to maintain traction and steering ability as well as optimizing the distribution of brake force when the car is full of passengers or loaded with cargo. The braking system design even muffs out the sound and vibration without compromising braking performance. Passive and safety features as well as driver-assist systems are very minimal but adequate especially when protecting small passengers. This Suzuki MPV comes with keyless push start system, GPS navigation, front dual airbag, seatbelts, ISOFIX, child seat tether anchorages, side-impact door beams, electronic stability program, hill hold control, AT shift lock, rear parking sensors and rearview camera, engine immobilizer, and security alarm.

The Suzuki XL7 is a great vehicle option for those looking to buy a family car with flexible room for passenger and cargo. It offers more seating, luggage space, and higher ground clearance compared to a sedan. Drivers will be pleasantly surprised how this MPV handles itself on the road and how relatively quiet, smooth, and comfortable the ride can be.