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2004 Suzuki XL-7 Road Test

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

The Suzuki XL-7 has garnered a well-earned reputation as a solid, well-built SUV. (Photo: Suzuki)

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

Apart from more output, the biggest change to the 2004 model is a much-needed freshening of the exterior. (Photo: Suzuki)

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.

First and foremost, I like the room offered by the seven person interior. (Photo: Suzuki) align="justify">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

I 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. (Photo: Suzuki)

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.

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