What Changed for 2008:

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS), stability and traction control, and tire-pressure-monitoring standard


• All-wheel drive (AWD) available on all but base XL7 models


• Standard automatic transmission


• Remote vehicle start standard on Limited model


• Optional self-leveling rear suspension


• Additional standard features in upper trim models


• Base model has 5-passenger seating and lower price


• Rear-seat DVD entertainment system optional


• DVD-based navigation system optional

Overview
Redesigned in 2007, and built on a General Motors unibody platform, the 2008 Suzuki XL7 returns in 2008 as a carryover model, with a few notable changes—like simplified trim levels and more standard features on upper trim models. While the second-generation XL7, Suzuki’s largest SUV ever produced, shares its stretched platform with partner GM’s Pontiac Torrent and Chevy Equinox, the XL7’s styling is all its own. And the 3.6-liter, V-6, GM-designed engine is built by Suzuki in Japan. The XL7 base model only has seating for 5 but more maximum cargo capacity than some competitors, the company says, and the price has been lowered for 2008. Other trims offer a fold-flat third-row seat for extra room.

Model Lineup
The 2008 Suzuki XL7 is available in a base 5-passenger model, as well as Premium, Luxury and Limited models. AWD is available on all but the base model, and all feature an automatic transmission, stability and traction control, 4-wheel ABS, tire-pressure-monitoring system, and remote keyless entry. The base XL7 is front-wheel drive (FWD) only and includes power windows/locks/mirrors; dual exhaust system with chrome tips; 6-speaker, AM/FM CD audio system with auxiliary input jack; driver information center; overhead storage console; rear cargo cover; and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Premium trim adds 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels along with first- and second-row floor mats. The Luxury model includes a 6-speaker audio system with 6-disc changer; leather interior and leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls; and a power sunroof. Limited trim adds remote vehicle start; auto-dimming mirror; rear air conditioning with second-row controls; 50/50-split, fold-flat third-row seat; 17-inch chrome aluminum alloy wheels; rear spoiler; and front fog lamps.

Options on the 2008 Suzuki XL7 include AWD; self-leveling rear suspension (7-passenger models only); rear vision camera; DVD navigation system; rear-seat DVD entertainment system; and aluminum or wood grain interior trim.

Powertrain
The 2008 Suzuki XL7 is powered by a 3.6-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead cam (DOHC) V-6 engine with variable valve timing (VVT) that generates 252 hp at 6400 rpm and 243 lb.-ft. of torque at 2300 rpm. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manumatic shift mode and FWD is standard and AWD is optional (except on the base model). A self-leveling rear suspension system is also available on 7-passenger models only. Stability and traction control, ABS and tire-pressure-monitoring system are all standard across the board. EPA fuel economy for the 2008 XL7 is estimated at 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway with FWD and 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway with AWD.

Safety
Safety features in the 2008 Suzuki XL7 include dual-stage driver and weight-sensing front passenger air bags, and side curtain air bags for all rows; height-adjustable front safety belts with pre-tensioners; rear child-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system; rear-door child safety locks; daytime running lights; tire-pressure-monitoring system; ABS; stability and traction control; and available rear vision camera.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Suzuki XL7 receives a 5-star rating for frontal and side-impact tests, and a 4-star rating for the agency’s rollover-resistance tests.

Technology
XL7 base and Premium models feature a 6-speaker, AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input jack, while the Luxury model moves up to a 6-speaker, in-dash 6-disc changer AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio setup with auxiliary input jack. Available is the Pioneer 7-speaker, in-dash 6-disc changer AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system that includes subwoofer, auxiliary input jack and XM satellite radio. A DVD navigation system with LCD display and touch screen plus voice-prompt commands is optional, as is a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones and dual-media capability. You can even see the sky with the power sunroof in Luxury and Limited models.