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Suzuki Xl7 Ceased Production In May 2009
The Suzuki XL7 ceased production in May 2009. This midsize crossover SUV, a restyled version of GM's Theta platform (also used for the Pontiac Torrent, Saturn Vue, and previous-generation Chevrolet Equinox), had no engine changes for its final model year.
The 2009 XL7 came standard with a 3.6-liter, DOHC engine. This all-aluminum, 24-valve, 60-degree V6 was part of GM's LY7 High Feature engine family, originally developed by Holden, GM's Australian subsidiary. Suzuki's version of this engine, assembled in Japan, featured a variable intake manifold and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cams, enhancing low-end power and reducing emissions. With a compression ratio of 10.2:1, it was rated at 252 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque.
The XL7's V6 was slightly less powerful than the similar engines in the Saturn Vue XR and Pontiac Torrent GXP, which had 257 horsepower and 264 horsepower, respectively. Most critics found the XL7's engine less pleasant, as well. Suzuki claimed that refinements to the exhaust manifold and engine mounts were supposed to improve refinement and provide a sporty engine note, but many reviews complained of a coarse growl on hard acceleration that was not present in its GM siblings.
While the Suzuki's 3.6-liter engine was not the most polished in its class, it provided respectable acceleration at all speeds, although it occasionally struggled with the XL7's two-ton weight. The 2009 model was hampered slightly by the new six-speed automatic, which was less responsive than the slick five-speed automatic used previously.
The 3.6-liter engine's fuel economy was only average for this class. Its EPA combined ratings, 19 mpg with 2WD, 18 mpg with AWD, were 3 mpg behind Toyota's V6 RAV4, which also had better acceleration and a quieter and more refined engine note. Like most class rivals, the XL7 used regular fuel.
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