Suzuki is no longer just a small car manufacturer with the introduction of the XL7 crossover SUV. The Suzuki XL7 is all-new for 2007. The new XL7 is longer, wider and more powerful than the former model. If it looks familiar, that's because it's based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Equinox and Pontiac Torrent models from GM. The XL7 is assembled in Canada alongside the Equinox and Torrent. The XL7's V6 engine is built in Japan, however. The XL7 is a large mid-size SUV that offers even more space for three rows of seats with sufficient room for adults to sit in reasonable comfort in the third row. Fold all the passenger seats down, including the front one, and there's a generous amount of cargo space.

As with other crossover utilities, the XL7 offers a much smoother ride on the highway than truck-based SUVs. I tested the All-wheel drive Limited version ($30,749) which offers the traction and stability needed for mountain winter driving and on dirt or gravel roads. With one of the most powerful engines in its class, the XL7 offers decent acceleration performance yet it delivers reasonable fuel economy(17mpg city/23mpg highway). The XL7 Limited adds fog lamps, rear spoiler, upgraded roof racks with silver-colored rails and cross bars, aluminum lower bumper valances, 17-inch wheels and tires, AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 with seven speakers (including subwoofer), DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones and auto-dimming antiglare rearview mirror with compass. (XM Satellite Radio requires a subscription.) The optional Platinum Touring package ($2200) for the Limited adds a navigation system, sunroof and unique, plated 17-inch alloy wheels. You can order the XL7 with third row seats, but there is limited cargo space behind the rear seats when they are in use. However, they split in half and can be folded down to provide a flat surface for cargo carrying. The front passenger seat can also be folded down providing a long surface for carrying long pieces of lumber or a ladder.

If you like the feel of a traditional, truck-based SUV but want a smoother ride you're likely to find the Suzuki XL7 to your liking. The XL7 is not truck based, nor is it based directly on a car platform. Instead its platform is somewhere between a car and truck, an approach that's becoming more popular as interest in crossover SUVs grows. The Suzuki XL7 AWD is ideal for those who need the roominess of a minivan, the stability of AWD in the mountains, but want the look and feel of a SUV coupled with decent performance and reasonable fuel economy. An added bonus is Suzuki's generous 100,000-mile, seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty

Denis and his wife Jeanie live in Evergreen and own the Mountain Man Nut & Fruit store in Bergen Park.