New Suzuki XL-7 SUV Promises Car-Like Ride and Refinement
On its stands at this year’s New York International Auto Show, Suzuki showed the automotive press two new sport utility vehicles designed for the North American market to bolster the 2006 Grand Vitara, which spearheaded Suzuki’s lineup revision. First up was the all-new SX4, a compact SUV-crossover that it designed in part with Italian automaker Fiat. The second vehicle, and the one that will ultimately launch Suzuki into the family-hauling crossover scene, is the all-new, second-generation XL-7.
Unlike the first generation XL-7 which was an extended version of the previous-generation Grand Vitara, with three rows of rather cramped seats and mildly altered styling, the new XL-7 was actually co-developed with General Motors. The new crossover ute is based on the extended wheelbase version of GM’s Theta crossover platform, which will underpin the European-market Chevrolet Captiva, and most likely the next generation Saturn VUE. Currently, the Theta platform also forms the basis for the Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, and in its smallest form, the current (2002+) Saturn VUE. Suzuki has added its own touch to the Theta chassis with full-length underbody rails for increased rigidity, allowing for a towing capacity of 1,587 kilos (3,500 lbs).
The switch to a monocoque chassis from a ladder-frame unit should really help put Suzuki in contention with rival crossover-makers, in terms of driving experience and passenger comfort. The XL-7 features a four-wheel independent suspension with rear multi-link design, and it comes equipped with standard front-wheel drive; an optional all-wheel drive system is available. On seven-passenger models, the XL-7 gains Nivomat self-leveling rear shock absorbers to keep a consistent ride height and optimize handling under full loads.