No, this isn't the first time Suzuki used the XL7 nameplate

Updated Jun 05, 2021 | Same topic: Automotive FYIs

It’s older than you think.

Launched in the Philippine market last March 2020, the Suzuki XL7 is the more macho version of the Ertiga. It features SUV-like styling cues on the outside and offers a similar ride comfort as the Ertiga. But did you know that this isn’t actually the first time Suzuki used the “XL7” model name?

2020 Suzuki XL7 Review: Is sporty really worthy? | Philkotse Philippines

The first Suzuki XL-7

The first iteration of the XL-7, which was produced from 1998-2006, is totally unrelated to the current XL7 and the Ertiga. In fact, the first generation Suzuki XL-7 (note the dash on the name) was essentially a longer version of the body-on-frame Suzuki Vitara or Escudo.

A picture of the 1998-2006 Suzuki Vitara XL7

The Vitara based XL7 was a tough SUV with 4x4, and a body-on-frame build

It had a longer wheelbase than the base Suzuki Vitara, and it was propelled by a V6 engine. It was a legit SUV with a body-on-frame build and comes with a four-wheel-drive configuration. Just like the smaller Vitara, the first-gen XL-7 had a reputation for being a no-nonsense off-road capable SUV that you could depend on.

The first-gen XL-7 sold 100,000 units a year in the U.S. alone. In Australia, it became one of the usual vehicles one would use for venturing into the outback.

The second Suzuki XL7

Apart from ditching the dash on its name, the new second-gen Suzuki XL7 also ditched the body-on-frame build. Moreover, it wasn’t even related to the Vitara at all. In fact, this newer 2006-2009 XL7 was a crossover that shared many parts with the Chevrolet Equinox, the Opel Antra, and the Pontiac Torrent. Like the previous XL-7, this newer version was still made by General Motors (GM) together with Suzuki, although it was the last model to be made in the said partnership.

>>> Related: SUZUKI XL7 2015 FOR SALE

A picture of the 2nd-gen Suzuki XL7

The 2nd-gen XL7 was a softer, more road oriented crossover

The second-gen XL7 comes with a V6 engine. It was more powerful than the Suzuki made H27A V6 on the first XL-7, but the new iteration also lost the four-wheel-drive and opted instead for an all-wheel drive. It also had more GM DNA within than Suzuki, which was a point of contention for Suzuki purists at that time. For a midsize crossover though, the XL7 was pretty decent, but it suffered in the market as there was little to no demand for it. The production for the second-gen XL7 was canceled in 2009.

The rebirth of the XL7 name

Reusing nameplates is nothing new in the automotive industry. And as you already know, the Ertiga based 2020 Suzuki XL7 is one of the latest models to revive an old, nearly forgotten model name.

>>> Related:  Thank heavens 2020 Suzuki XL7 keeps these underrated Ertiga features

A picture of the front of the Suzuki XL7

The current Suzuki XL7 is made by Maruti Suzuki, and is based on the Suzuki Ertiga MPV

Do you want to learn more about the car you drive and/or the other car models available here in the Philippine market? Stay tuned here on Philkotse.com for more.

Know more about Suzuki XL7 2024

Suzuki XL7

The Suzuki XL7 is an MPV that features a design that looks like a crossover-inspired version of the Suzuki Ertiga. The XL7's only available variant is priced at Php 1,252,000. Under the hood, this MPV is powered by a 1.5-liter K15B 4-cylinder gasoline engine that is capable of generating 103 hp and 138 Nm of torque. Only a 4-speed automatic transmission is the available gearbox for the PH-spec model.

Dimensions-wise, the XL7 is 4,450 mm in length, 1,775 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height. Also, it gets a wheelbase and ground clearance rated at 2,740 mm and 200 mm, respectively. In the Philippines, this MPV goes up against the likes of the Mitsubishi Xpander, Toyota Avanza, and Maxus G50.

>>> New and used Suzuki XL7 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Suzuki XL7 Launch

The all-new Suzuki XL7 was introduced in March 2020 together with the Suzuki S-Presso 2020. Suzuki Philippines Inc., the pioneer distributor of compact vehicles in our country, wants Filipinos to enjoy a highly efficient and good-looking car with a modern exterior and interior guaranteed to deliver an outstanding performance on the road.   

Though a previous Suzuki XL7 was released in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada from 1998 to 2009, note that it shares nothing but a name.

6 things we like about the Suzuki XL7 | Philkotse Reviews

Suzuki XL7 Exterior

The first thing you will notice in the XL7 is its fiercely bold front. It is rugged but strikingly handsome. It bears a muscled grille garnished with the right amount of chrome highlights. A pair of quad-chamber LED headlamps with daylight running lights is available for high-quality illumination.  

Suzuki XL7 exterior

The first thing you will notice in the XL7 is its fiercely bold front.

On top, a set of sturdy roof rails are fixed. The back is generously spoiled with chrome designs and 3D tail lamps with light guides. Adding to the SUV's appeal of this automobile are the skid plates displayed on its front and rear with side claddings. 

This MPV measures 4,450mm long, 1,775mm wide, and 1,170mm tall. Supporting its 1,730 kg weight is a set of 16-inch shiny alloy wheels.

Suzuki XL7 rear end

The back is generously spoiled with chrome designs and 3D tail lamps with light guides.

Suzuki XL7 Interior

Stepping inside the Suzuki XL7 is an experience as it is filled with fine details everyone will love. Drivers will be mesmerized by the upgraded meter cluster fitted with advanced multi-information color LCD and the D-shaped steering wheel.    

The color scheme of this seven-seater vehicle is gray and black, accentuated with red and satin chrome. A couple of materials are carbon fiber patterned, staying true to its elegant but bold attitude. The seats come in either leather or black fabric with adjustable headrests. Passenger comfort is assured as its second row can slide and recline using a one-touch system. Seats on the third row can also be reclined and separated. Charging your mobile devices is convenient as all rows are fitted with sockets. 

Suzuki XL7 interior

The color scheme of this seven-seater vehicle is gray and black.

As for cargo storage, it can carry a maximum of 199 liters in the split-type compartment area in its rear. Space can be maximized by raising or folding third-row seats.

Technology & Safety Features

The Suzuki XL7 comes with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment audio system that can be connected through Bluetooth and USB. It comes with useful and modern features such as keyless entry, power steering, power windows, steering wheel audio control, and the likes.

For safety, it is fitted with a generous amount of airbags found at the front and side. Curtain and knee airbags are also installed for added protection. The car is built with an auto brake system, electronic brake distribution, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, control for stability, etc.

Platform & Chassis

At the front, this front-wheel-drive vehicle is equipped with a Macpherson Strut and coil suspension. A Torsion beam with coil spring is attached on its rear. Stopping is provided by the use of ventilated disc brakes at the front while halting in the rear is supported by leading and trailing drums.

Suzuki XL7 Engine & Drivetrain

The Suzuki XL7 runs using a 1.5-liter K15B  gasoline engine that produces 103 hp with a torque of 138 Nm. Fuel efficiency is guaranteed thanks to its aerodynamic body tested to produce less drag and a four-speed automatic transmission.

Suzuki XL7 2024 Price List

Let's check out the Suzuki XL7 2024 price in September in the Philippines.

 Variants Price
Suzuki XL7 Hybrid GLX AT Monotone ₱1,252,000
Suzuki XL7 Hybrid GLX AT Two-tone ₱1,262,000

Suzuki XL7 FAQs

1. Is the Suzuki XL7 a SUV or MPV?

The Suzuki XL7 can be seen as either an MPV or crossover for it carries the traits of both an SUV and MPV.

2. How many seats does the Suzuki XL7 offer?

The XL7 is a 7-seat VPM with a 2-3-2 configuration. Third-row seats can be raised and folded for roomier cargo space.

3. How many airbags does the Suzuki XL7 have?

The XL7 comes with driver and front passenger airbags along with 3-point seatbelts for all passengers.

4. How many different variants do the Suzuki XL7 2024 have?

In the Philippines, the Suzuki XL7 2024 has only one variant: the Suzuki XL7 GLX 1.5 AT. But it comes with two color tone options.

5. What are the dimensions of the Suzuki XL7 2024?

The Suzuki XL7 2024 measures 4,450 mm in length, 1,775 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height.

 

₱ 1,181,000

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Cesar G.B. Miguel

Cesar G.B. Miguel

Author

Cesar Guiderone B. Miguel was born and raised in Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte. He graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in English degree from Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology. He previously worked as a freelance writer for various websites, as a member of the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction Management's training staff, and as a medical sales representative.

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