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New Suzuki XL-7 Promises Car-Like Ride and Refinement

XL-7 Trades in its Off-Roading Gear for Luxury and Comfort

On its stands at this years New York International Auto Show, Suzuki showed the automotive press two new sport utility vehicles designed for the North American market to bolster the 2006 Grand Vitara, which spearheaded Suzukis lineup revision. First up was the all-new SX4, a compact SUV-crossover that it designed in part with Italian automaker Fiat. The second vehicle, and the one that will ultimately launch Suzuki into the family-hauling crossover scene, is the all-new, second-generation XL-7.

The new XL-7 is a completely different machine than the outgoing model. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

Unlike the first generation XL-7 which was an extended version of the previous-generation Grand Vitara, with three rows of rather cramped seats and mildly altered styling, the new XL-7 was actually co-developed with General Motors. The new crossover ute is based on the

New XL-7 is a crossover, rather than a traditional SUV. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

extended wheelbase version of GMs Theta crossover platform, which will underpin the European-market Chevrolet Captiva, and most likely the next generation Saturn VUE. Currently, the Theta platform also forms the basis for the Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, and in its smallest form, the current (2002+) Saturn VUE. Suzuki has added its own touch to the Theta chassis with full-length underbody rails

Transfer case and live axles out of the equation; new XL-7 has multi-link and FWD as standard. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

for increased rigidity, allowing for a towing capacity of 3,500  lbs.

The switch to a monocoque chassis from a ladder-frame unit should really help put Suzuki in contention with rival crossover-makers, in terms of driving experience and passenger comfort. The XL-7 features a four-wheel independent suspension with rear multi-link design, and it comes equipped with standard front-wheel drive; an optional all-wheel drive system is available. On seven-passenger models,

Powerful GM-derived engine creates 250 horsepower. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

the XL-7 gains Nivomat self-leveling rear shock absorbers to keep a consistent ride height and optimize handling under full loads.

As you might expect with a GM-derived chassis architecture, the powertrain used is also GM-sourced. The XL-7 uses the Holden-designed, but Suzuki-built 3.6-liter V6 DOHC engine that generates an estimated 250-horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque; essentially the same engine used in the mid-range Cadillac CTS. This makes the second-generation XL-7 the most powerful Suzuki ever made. Despite being nearly an entire liter larger than the first XL-7s engine, the new V6 is expected

The new design is much bolder than the previous model. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

to be equally as efficient as the old model, with an estimated fuel consumption rating of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. This feat is possible through the use of variable valve timing, a unique engine control unit and a five-speed automatic gearbox.

The new XL-7 is dramatically different visually from the vehicle it replaces, shedding its boxy shape for one thats sleeker, more modern, but also one thats more mainstream. The most unique aspect of its styling are its curiously oversized and angular headlamps, which just might be the start of a new styling direction for Suzuki. They were inspired by the Concept X introduced in Detroit last year. The rest of the design features styling cues that

Though some components are GM sourced, the cabin of the new vehicle is a step forward from before. (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

are consistent with the new Grand Vitara, including the bevel-edged hood and fenders, trimmed fender flares and the arcing curve of the window, which ever so cleverly matches up with the boxy angle of the rear liftgate.
Inside, Suzuki has dressed up the interior of the new XL-7; its now built available on the top of the line model. Other noteworthy options include a navigation system, with improved quality materials such as matte finish plastics and wood grain appliqué. Leather seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering wheel arerear-seat DVD entertainment system and a power glass sunroof. Because of the XL-7s relation to other GM products, quite a few components are shared, including the multi-function steering wheel and much of the switch gear, including the stereo and climate

Seven seats are optional. Hey - doesnt that play an important part the XL-7s name? (Photo: American Suzuki Motor Corporation)

control on the center console. Thanks to significant improvements in GM interior quality, especially in these critical user interface areas, the new XL-7 gains from this association.

As was noted earlier in the article, the XL-7 no longer comes standard with seven seats; the third row is an option for the upper Luxury model. The new stretched Theta platform allows the XL-7 to offer greater third-row comfort, including up to 40 inches of rear legroom, and nearly 39 inches of headroom. The third row also incorporates a 50/50 split fold, which is capable of being stored in the floor for a large, flat cargo area. For even greater versatility, the XL-7s second- and first-row passenger seats also fold, allowing extra-long items, such as a small kayak, to be carried on board.

The new XL-7 is expected to arrive in dealerships this fall. Pricing will be announced closer to its release date.

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