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Review of the 2009 Suzuki XL7 Luxury

2009 Suzuki XL7

Price Range $25,595 to $29,680

suitable for: Diapers
School
Teens

16 to 17
City MPG

23 to 24
Hwy MPG

7 Seats
3 Rows
2 Latch Connectors
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Interior

The interior in the XL7 was classy-looking. The driver’s seat was ample, comfy and leather-trimmed; it had eight lovely buttons for seat adjustments. I have to explain what I mean by ample: Some cars have seats that are lightweight and rather skimpy; they just don’t feel like they can support you. The XL7’s seats, including the third row, are substantial and thick-feeling, which is always a good indicator of an automaker taking its customers’ needs into consideration.

The XL7 Luxury trim level I tested didn’t include the navigation system, which I missed. Even without it, though, the center stack was stylish. I loved the simulated-wood-grain accent in the gearshift and dash. The power-window buttons threw me for a loop because they were located just beneath the center stack. I kept looking for them on the door, which almost created an embarrassing drive-thru emergency!

Back in row numero dos, my muchachos enjoyed a stable-feeling ride in seats that suited their booster seats with easy-to-use Latch connectors. As always, there was a climb to get into this SUV, but once settled everyone was happy. I pointed out the second row’s armrest with hidden cupholders, which my boys quickly pushed back up into place. I’ll never understand why my kids aren’t impressed with backseat armrests. Do your kids use the armrest? Our booster seats include cupholders, so they never really use the car’s cupholders, but please don’t tell anyone I let that slip! Shhhhh!

I was able to access the third row fairly easily by folding down the second row. As I mentioned, I was impressed that Suzuki was able to carry the same level of interior quality all the way through the SUV. Occasionally, pop-up third rows seem like something the car manufacturer tossed in after the fact. Not so with the XL7 — this third row was made to be used.

The cargo area in the XL7 gives you tons of space; you’ll never have to think twice about picking up an oversized item from Home Depot or your favorite antique shop. I don’t know about you, but I always appreciate it when a car gives me that do-it-yourself confidence.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Ample
Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Galore

shopping around: At cars.com

key interior: Features

    ● Driver and passenger heated seatbacks and cushions
    ● Manual lumbar support
    ● Cargo net
    ● Outside-temperature display

available interior: Colors

  • Beige
  • Gray

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