XL stands for extra large when it comes to the range-topping Suzuki Grand Vitara. With seven seats and a powerful 2.7-litre V6 engine this is one of the best value for money all-rounders.
It combines all the properties of a rugged off-roader with the practicalities of a people mover - and at a shade under £19,000 is keenly priced.
Unlike other seven seat off-roaders - which with the exception of the Tata Safari all cost significantly more than the Grand Vitara - Suzuki has not gone for occasional fold down seats in the rear.
Instead there is a full-blown bench seat complete with head restraints and three-point seatbelts.
The problem of minimal leg room which so often affects such a configuration has been overcome by making the middle row of seats able to slide back and forward.
The room that creates enables every seat in the Grand Vitara to be used by adults with ease.
It is not a bad performer either and the latest versions of the Grand Vitara have seen some significant improvements to the quality of the interior.
There is nothing cheap and tacky about Suzuki in this day and age. In fact there is enough wooden veneer in the Grand Vitara to make it quite classy.
The V6 develops 170bhp resulting in a 10.5 acceleration time for the 0 to 60 sprint and a claimed top speed of 109mph. Average fuel consumption is 26.2mpg.
In normal set up the Grand Vitara is front wheel drive with additional traction and low ratio gears being selected through a transfer box controlled by a lever next to the hand brake.
In the mud and mire it is one of the more capable performers in this class of off roaders and on the road it handles well too.
The downside of the extra row of seats in the rear is minimal cargo capacity and the space behind the tailgate is very tight indeed - although the rear seats can be folded flat for additional room.
Air conditioning is standard on the XL and there are additional ventilation outlets throughout the car which makes for a pleasant environment all round.
Other creature comforts include an extra 12 volt outlet in the back, plenty of interior storage space and even a compartment for spectacles which is housed in the roof lining above the driver and front seat passenger.
As all rounders go this is one of the better options - and certainly one that provides an awful lot without breaking the bank.
FAST FACTS
Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.7 V6 XL-7
Price: £18,995
Mechanical: 170bhp, 2,736cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving all four wheels via a 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 109mph
0-62mph: 10.5 secs
Combined mpg: 26.2
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 260g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust; 6yrs paint