2004 Suzuki XL-7 Review

Everything is Improved, Almost

Suzuki engineers have addressed the biggest failing in their mid-size sport utility for 2004, but it still fell a few horsepower short of the mark.

Since its debut a few years ago, the XL-7 has garnered a well-earned reputation as a solid, well-built SUV, the perfect city runaround/camping vehicle for those in the market for the functionality of a sport-ute without the associated girth.

The one thing its always lacked in terms of the competition, however, is a decently powered engine up to the task of hauling cargo — human and otherwise — over hill and dale. Despite featuring a six-cylinder powerplant, the XL-7 just didnt measure up.

So, I was hardly surprised when I read in the 2004 XL-7 press notes that the new model had increased horsepower. The only problem is that the engineers squeezed an anemic two additional horsepower and nominal four pound-feet of torque from the same 2.7-liter engine. And while there is truth in the advertising, there isnt any significant change in the performance of the SUV - instead of 183, the new model boasts 185 ponies.

Apart from, ahem, more output, the biggest change to the 2004 model is a much-needed freshening of the exterior, though even that is a half-measure attempt.

The new sport styling has essentially transformed what was a very boxy SUV to a somewhat boxy SUV. For the record, and again I defer to the press notes, “exterior enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, rear license plate garnish and new Euro-style headlamps and tail lenses with dark chrome-painted bezels that enrich its exterior look.

Funny thing is, despite my tongue-in-cheek banter I still really like the XL-7. First and foremost, I like the room offered by the seven — thats right, seven — person interior. I also like the fact the XL-7 comes standard a CD player, power windows, locks and A/C. Additionally I like that the XL-7 has a true 4X4 drivetrain with a real low gear ratio, available as an option in both Touring and Limited trim levels.

Things that dont thrill me are the aforementioned power output, a bit of body roll in the corners and gas consumption figures that arent in line with a mid-size, Japanese-built SUV, at 21 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. That said, despite the power increase fuel economy did improve from last years rating, probably due to the all-new five-speed automatic transmission, up a cog from last years four-speed unit.

For 2004, the XL-7 comes in two trim levels: Touring and Limited. The base Touring is the sole model to offer a five-speed manual transmission, though it comes loaded with all the kinds of creature comforts and luxury items one would expect to find in a vehicle well over the $19,599 MSRP.

To the Tourings long list of standard features (such as air conditioning, power everything and side impact beams), the Limited ($23,599) adds a six CD stereo system, aluminum wheels, fog lamps, heated power mirrors, rear upper spoiler, a power sunroof, body-side cladding, and leather seats throughout, among other features.

All in all, I still have to say I like the 2004 XL-7 for its value for money, its versatile seating arrangements and its long list of standard features. Now, if only they could do something about that six-cylinder engine.