I recently got behind the wheel of the Suzuki XL7 and took it around Makati, Rizal, and a few other cities across Metro Manila. It left a solid impression as a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and surprisingly refined vehicle for a seven-seater in this price range.

Fuel efficiency was something I noticed early on. Even while inching through traffic and doing errands across three cities, the fuel gauge barely moved. Well, it did, but you know what I mean. It’s that kind of low-key efficiency that grows on you, especially when gas prices are unpredictable and every peso counts. The XL7 actually saves you fuel, and that alone makes it a strong daily driver.

Another thing I appreciated was the suspension. It felt calm over rough patches and speed bumps. Some roads in Rizal are less than ideal, and even then, the car stayed composed. The ride did not feel bouncy or harsh, just comfortable and well-mannered, which I honestly was not expecting at this price point. And with the added ground clearance, it handled the week’s roadside flooding with confidence.

I was planning to take it farther, maybe drive down to Lucena or head up north to Baguio. But it rained almost every day that week, and on top of that, I was tied up with work for DAILY TRIBUNE’s 25th anniversary.

We’re talking full-on thunderstorms that flooded the roads and stalled smaller cars. So I stuck to the cities. Even with downpours, the XL7 held its ground. It was a hassle-free drive through puddles and wet roads. And thanks to its decent ride height and solid traction, I didn’t feel the need to second-guess my routes or check Waze all the time.

Inside, the quietness was something I didn’t expect. The XL7 manages to keep engine and road noise to a minimum. It’s not luxury-level silence, but it’s peaceful enough to enjoy music or just sit in traffic without feeling irritated. This quietness really adds to the relaxed feeling you get while driving it.

The seats were another win. After hours in traffic, my back wasn’t sore, which says a lot. The seats have just the right amount of softness and support, comfortable enough for long drives, but still firm enough so you don’t sink in and get tired.

It appears that Suzuki put much thought into the XL7’s layout. The 7-inch touchscreen is easy to use and has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which I appreciated for both function and clarity. The XL7 is based on the Ertiga platform but with tweaks, like the higher ground clearance and a bit of ruggedness in style.

The exterior has black cladding and roof rails, which give it a more adventurous look that I like. The rear air-conditioning system is a big win for third-row passengers, something I was not able to test fully during my solo drive, but definitely good to know.

Overall, the Suzuki XL7 is not a flashy car. It just works. It’s practical, easy to drive, and comfortable, with the added bonus of looking a bit more rugged than your average MPV. For the kind of city driving I do, this felt just right.