The 2011 Suzuki XL 7
By Zaheer on Jun 08, 2011 with Comments 0
This year’s Suzuki XL 7 for 2011 is an SUV utilizing a truck platform. This means that it does not consist of a unit-body like many of the SUVs today. This however, doesn’t affect the quality of the ride although many people would believe it does. The ride is quite smooth and comfortable. Test drivers say that it handles like a car rather than an SUV. The SUV is good for off-road as well as city driving. The closest rivals that can be compared to the XL-7 are the Kia Sorento or the Toyota RAV4.
Under the hood, the Suzuki XL-7 has a six cylinder 2.7 liter engine considered the standard. The engine provides 185 horsepower, an average for any SUV. In terms of fuel consumption, the Suzuki XL 7 consumes 22 mpg for highway and 17 mpg for city travel. Considering that this SUV is based on a truck structure, this rating on its fuel consumption is superb and is bound to attract even more buyers.
A manual 5-speed completes the transmission for the standard Suzuki XL7′s LX 2WD version. The LX 2WD has an available alternative of choosing a 5-speed automatic transmission as desired. The EX III 4WD has an automatic five speed transmission. The new names for the Limited and Touring are EX III and LX as used in earlier years for the different models of the XL7. The EX is four wheel drive while those who prefer two wheel drive can pick the LX version. Tests have shown that both versions can comfortably tow about 3,000 pounds, a considerably higher amount as compared to other SUVs in the market today. Arguably, this can be attributed to the truck-like build of the XL 7.
In terms of safety, the 2011 XL-7 has not yet been tested but it is based on similar safety configurations as those upon which the Grand Vitara is. The National Highway Transport and Safety Authority rated the vehicle in protection levels of the driver and other occupants during frontal impacts with a four star rating. The airbags for the front passenger are deemed multistage airbags since they deploy at varying strengths, according to the type of accident in which the vehicle is involved.
The 2011 XL 7 is smaller than other SUVs in the market today but offers just as much in terms of performance if not better. The 2011 XL 7 comes with a cargo capacity of 40 cubic feet and this volume is located just behind the 2nd row seats. This volume can be greatly increased by folding the seats downwards. The SUV gives a feel of a brilliant ruggedness, which explains the reliable handling that this vehicle displays on and off-road. The price is not too much, giving impetus to buyers who might be eager to try a Suzuki.
Though the Suzuki XL 7 pales in comparison to other competitors in this class of SUVs in style and fuel economy, its handling and towing ability are likely to continue attracting buyers.
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Filed Under: Industry News
