2008 Suzuki XL7 in Belvidere, IL - $5,995

Featuring smart, sleek and modern exterior sheetmetal, Suzuki introduced an all-new XL7 SUV into the American marketplace last year. The Japanese automaker's flagship SUV was engineered to deliver more style, comfort, performance and safety than the previous model, with the North American auto market in mind.

Evolved from the Suzuki Concept-X which debuted at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the all-new XL7 is bigger, bolder and more powerful than the previous generation. The new XL7 moved from a rear-wheel drive truck chassis to a sophisticated front-drive unibody with full-length underbody rails for added strength.

The XL7 packs even more value into its Luxury and Limited models for the 2008 model year with newly added standard features. Luxury models now include a standard power moonroof and six-CD audio system. Limited models feature a lower sticker price than last year while including substantial upgrades to the standard equipment list. The newly added standard features: a leather-appointed interior, power heated front seats, touch screen navigation system, rear vision camera system, power moonroof, chrome wheels and six CD Pioneer-branded premium audio system.

Offered in Base, Luxury and Limited trim levels and available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, the XL7 receives power from a Suzuki-built 3.6L V6 engine with variable valve timing. Torque is transferred to the ground through an Aisin AW AF33-5 five-speed automatic transmission that features a manual-shifting (manumatic) model.

The available all-wheel drive system uses an active, electronically controlled rear differential module. The system responds immediately to all-wheel drive requests and effectively eliminates lag times. A four-mount cradle secures the rear drive module, regulated by its own dedicated electronic controller. A new-design propeller shaft fitted with upgraded universal joints handles the added torque.

The rigid unibody of the XL7 serves as the basis for the control hardware. A four-wheel independent suspension system consists of MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. A trailing arm plus three additional locating links for the rear suspension allow a low, wide load floor and maximum rear-passenger space. The three locating links are designed to manage lateral loads and control the dynamic toe-in of the rear wheel.

As the largest and most comfortable SUV Suzuki ever built, the XL7 offers driver and passengers a spacious, functional passenger cabin that provides upscale sophistication and refinement. The available third row seat delivers seven passenger capability and real comfort. The reclining 60/40 split-folding second-row seat tumbles and folds, and the 50/50 split-folding third row seat can be folded flat into the floor for additional cargo carrying room. The front passenger seat also folds flat to allow room for longer items such as ladders, surfboards or even a small kayak.

Upscale touches include wood or satin nickel appliqués on the instrument panel and doors, chrome accents throughout and matte black, low-gloss surfaces. Leather seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are part of certain trim packages.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.4; overall length: 197.2; width: 72.2; height: 68.9 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 252 hp at 6,500 rpm and 243 lbs-ft of torque at 2,300 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic with manumatic control.

Cargo capacity: 95.0 cu. ft.

EPA fuel economy: 16 city/22 hwy., (RWD); 15 city/22 hwy., (AWD).

Payload capacity: 1,127 lbs.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features:

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, alarm system, brake assist, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, daytime running lights, electronic stability control, traction control and tire pressure monitor. Limited adds fog lights and remote control engine start.

Optional safety equipment includes navigation system and rearview monitor.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 7-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 3-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Suzuki XL-7 SUV starts from $21,349 for the Base RWD up to $28,899 for the Limited AWD. Destination charges add $650.

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