Word is Xl7 replacement was designed to go against a new version of SUV's like the Pilot by honduh. Large equivilants to the body/frame models with enough off-road prowess for most but retaining high levels of on-road ride and fuel effeciency...
Can't explain source but he's right on the money with it... It rides really nice, almost to that of the X5... 99% there... Cost was a major concern with the new XL7...