The new Suzuki XL-7 is more than just the largest sport-utility vehicle the company has ever made. Based on the smaller Grand Vitara, the XL-7 gets a longer wheelbase and a more powerful V6 engine. Plus, seats up to seven passengers, with a tiny third-row bench as standard equipment (a first in this class of SUVs). Overall, the XL-7 is longer than the Jeep Cherokee, wider than the Toyota RAV4, and more powerful than the Subaru Forester. Still, it's a lot smaller than either the Dodge Durango or four-door Ford Explorer. Suzuki calls the XL-7 "sensibly sized."The XL-7's advantages are price and maneuverability. Compared with the Durango and Explorer, the XL-7 is easier to park and costs thousands less.
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