Does anyone have any experience with these or know of known issues? I'm seeing really low prices for nice examples. I worry about parts availability with Suzuki not selling cars in the US now.
Thanks Hive
Does anyone have any experience with these or know of known issues? I'm seeing really low prices for nice examples. I worry about parts availability with Suzuki not selling cars in the US now.
Thanks Hive
What year?
Either an elongated Chevy Tracker or the newer version is a chassis mate to the Saturn Vue/Equinox/Cadillac SRX. This newer version has odd triangular headlights.
Which generation? First or second? the first gen with the 2.7 were good little trucks. Change the oil often and expect to change the main chain tensioner at some point. I know next to nothing on the second gen other than they were just a Saturn Vue/Chevy Equinox.
They did have a lot of issues with timing chains.
Looking at 2nd gen. 2006 to be exact
2006 is still first gen. They're a true body on frame SUV with a toyota style rear diff, IRS front diff and a real transfer case between the two. The 2.7L is a good little motor, but it's a bit stressed in the longer XL-7. Timing chain tensioners are a common failure point. Figure 80k between changing them.
Engine holds 6.5 qts of oil, and the filter location sucks. It'll drip for weeks after a change even if you use 2 cans of brake cleaner. Interior is a bit narrow compared to a lot of the SUV's of the era. Wide people will rub in the front. Low 20's mpg on the highway below 70mpg. Goes down fast the faster you run.
Overall, I like them but be prepared to pay $$ for repair parts as they are Suzuki only in most cases. Things like brakes and belts and filters all cross to the Tracker/Grand Vitara. I'd love another Grand Vitara as a winter beater/offroader (normal wheelbase, not the XL7).
If you are attracted to the Gen1 XL-7 for the 3rd row, be warned, it is pretty hypothetical given it's small dimensions.
For a 3rd row SUV that is usable while still being an odd, quirky and cheap alternative consider the Gen3 '01-'06 Mitsubishi Montero Full Sizer. Slow, with an underpowered V6 but super capable off-road while still being smooth on the hyw.
I maintained a couple a few years ago and parts were a nightmare outside of the most common stuff like brake pads and wear items you can get for every car.
They are not easy to work on.
I would never recommend a suzuki, but the grm crowd is generally a little more creative and may be better equipped to maintain a vehicle from a marque like this
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