Bigger doesn't always mean better. But in the case of the 2007 Suzuki XL7, there's even more to love about the enlarged version of this model that has been a pretty solid, if overlooked, member of the midsize SUV segment. It's a little bit more expensive now, but it offers value when compared with some of its competitors. With this model, Suzuki continues its recent trend of offering good quality and safety in its vehicles at a reasonable price.

Photo by Suzuki (ENLARGE)

Suzuki XL7

More "Test Drives" 2007 Volvo S80: Quality stays high  Mazdaspeed 3 GT: A powerful, grown-up car  Toyota Tundra: Capable, and comfortable  Full list

ABOUT THE SUZUKI XL7:

Body style: Four-door, midsize SUV

Trim lines: XL7, XL7 Luxury, XL7 Limited

Price: Starts at $22,899, ranging to $29,549; as tested $28,584

Drive: Front-wheel or all-wheel

Seating: Five or seven passenger

Engine: 3.6- liter V-6

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

Miles per gallon of fuel: EPA estimate 18 city/24 highway

WHAT'S SPECIAL: The XL7 is built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Equinox and the Pontiac Torrent, but unlike those two SUVs, it offers third-row seating. It has been restyled and now comes with a more powerful V-6 engine. It's not as boxy-looking as its predecessors and cuts a pretty striking figure now.

WHAT WE LIKE: Five passengers can fit very comfortably in the XL7, with good shoulder room, headroom and legroom. As is the case in most third rows of seats, there's not a lot of people space. But fold down that row, and you'll have great cargo space.

WHAT ISN'T THERE: A rugged ride. Even with its added size, the XL7 has a smoothness to it that's to be admired. It handles nicely and accelerates gracefully when you need it to. But keep in mind that it's still an SUV, not a sports car.

YOU OUGHTA KNOW: While not a luxury vehicle, this machine sure has some fancy touches, such as leather, six-way power seats that are heated, wood-grain trim and dual- zone climate control. Safety features include electronic stability, traction control and self-leveling rear suspension systems. You can get front-wheel or all-wheel drive and the 3.6-liter engine makes 252 horsepower.

EXTRAS: The XL7 has 7.9 inches of ground clearance, allowing it to clear obstacles that some other crossovers might not be able to handle. You might try some light off-roading with the all-wheel drive model. If you need to tow things, the XL7 can pull up to 3,500 pounds — which wouldn't qualify it to be a heavy duty vehicle but isn't bad for something in this category. Interior noise is pretty minimal, even at high speeds.

AND ANOTHER THING: Suzuki seeks a boost with a new marketing campaign, "Way of Life," that trades on its motorcycle heritage.