2003 Suzuki XL-7 Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
By offering a third-row seat in a compact SUV, Suzuki answers a question not many people are asking; but if you're one of them, the XL-7 is worth a look.
Pros
Affordable base price, competent on- and off-road handling, optional seven-passenger seating, stylish design.
Cons
Cramped second- and third-row seating, side airbags not available.
What's New for 2003
For 2003, Suzuki has updated the Grand Vitara XL-7's dash and console with wood grain trim, chrome accents and a 12-volt accessory outlet. Other additions to the interior include a new seven-speaker system, integrated audio and cruise control buttons on the steering wheel, an adjustable center armrest with CD storage and smaller rear headsets for better rearward visibility.
Suzuki has also changed some of its trim names for 2003. The previous "Standard" trim has now simply become the XL-7, while the "Plus" has become the XL-7 with the option of third-row seating. The "Touring" model has been dropped all together. The Limited model is now being offered with a six-disc in-dash CD changer. Finally, a Limited model with the third-row option is also available with climate control and a rear air conditioning switch.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
A very good buy in more ways then one!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Suzuki XL-7 Touring 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
My husband and I are Jeep lovers, when we met we both had Suzuki Samari's. We spent the last 2 years looking for the best vehicle to upgrade with. But after our son came along we were even more anxious on finding a dependable and secure Jeep to transport our bundle of joy. We stubbled across a pearl white XL7, after the test drive we were sold not to mention that it was in great condition and had low mileage. It looks good but when we have family outtings & picnics it accomdates everything from bodies to bags! My husband has even taken the Jeep filled with friends on an island tour of our country Barbados and every passenger was so comfortable during the ride they feel at intervals!
Favorite Features
Hugs and sits on the road like a tank, yet drives like a luxury vehicle.
Suggested Improvements
Vehicle
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Suzuki XL-7 Limited Rwd 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
This is my 2nd Suzuki and really like the performance, value and mileage. Getting a fully loaded XL-7 for 10k lower than everyone else makes this vehicle very affordable! My salesperson really knew her stuff, but sitting in the XL-7 actually sold itself. And talk about performance, someone drove my vehicle and said it drove like his Tahoe. I recommend you test drive one and you'll never buy anything ele. Unbelievable value for your hard-earned dollars!
Favorite Features
Electric everything, sun roof, 6 disc cd player, self-locking doors if you forget to lock them, radio features on steering wheel.
Suggested Improvements
More colors!
Colorado Cruising
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Suzuki XL-7 Touring 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 5M)
Review
Overall this is a reliable vehicle. We have not had any maintenance issues. It has a snappy acceleration. I just had to get used to the power coming on at 3000 rpm. On the highway the ride is great except for a little road noise but not that bad. Around town the lady likes it for in and out of parking lots. Gas mileage is about 17 mpg in town and 21 to 23 on highway. The car survived quite well after being rear ended buy a F250 super duty ford diesel, impact was absorbed by the rear door mounted spare. After repair it is still driving great.
Favorite Features
Easy entry and exit of vehicle. Nice roadability.
Suggested Improvements
Gas mileage, road noise
Good deal
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Suzuki XL-7 Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Handles well and comfortable, 3 years 140000 miles and only have changed oil and brakes, gas mileage is less than expected, body control module quit early on and factory would not cover.
Favorite Features
User friendly 4x4, comfortable for family.
Suggested Improvements
Relocate oil filter, it dumps on everything when you change oil.
Love this car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Suzuki XL-7 Limited 4WD 4dr SUV (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
Review
Just as great as a Toyota made super well! Reliable, handles super, great 4 wheel drive. Hugs the road, extremely reliable. Good on gas. First time buyer and we were really impressed. Has a 3rd row which comes in handy when needed.
Favorite Features
Design durability quality in and out. High safety rating!
Suggested Improvements
Optional DVD player factory installed.
View Pricing for Other Years
- 2006 Suzuki XL-7
- 2005 Suzuki XL-7
- 2004 Suzuki XL-7
- 2003 Suzuki XL-7
- 2002 Suzuki XL-7
- 2001 Suzuki XL-7
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