All-new SX4 may be the best car nobody’s heard of
Last year, Suzuki joined the crowded party of subcompacts with the introduction of the SX4, replacing the odd looking Aerio SX.
Compared to other new arrivals in the compact segment — Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa and Chevy Aveo — only the SX4 offers all-wheel drive. It’s the least expensive all-wheel drive sold in America, and Suzuki even classifies it as a crossover. In reality, it competes better with the aforementioned compact hatchbacks than a true crossover vehicle, despite its all-wheel drive prowess.
Americans don’t much care for subcompact vehicles and automakers don’t make much money building them. Vehicles in this segment are considered entry-level cars that will introduce first-time buyers to a particular brand. Manufacturers hope to hang on to those buyers when they decide to move up to more expensive vehicles in the future.
The SX4 is enjoyable to drive, comes well equipped for the price and looks appealing. Although it has one of the largest engines in its class (143 horsepower compared to the Yaris’ 106, Versa’s 122 and Fit’s 109), the SX4 still feels a little slow from behind the steering wheel. That’s because, at 2968 pounds, this is one hefty subcompact. It’s almost 500 pounds heavier than Fit and 200 more than Versa. Blame the extra iron for the all-wheel drive set up, but that weight zaps the fuel economy to 22 miles per gallon in the city, 30 on the highway, below the competition in this vehicle class.
I didn’t so much notice the lack of power during around town jaunts, but it was evident when getting up to highway speeds. Don’t even think about passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway.
I spent a week behind the wheel and other than the wanting more “oomph,” I found the SX4 most enjoyable, with a roomy cabin, comfortable seats, good visibility and a generally pleasant driving experience. It maneuvers well around town, corners nimbly and brakes well. There was a little road and engine noise at highway speeds.
There are three settings for the all-wheel drive system: front-wheel drive for maximum fuel economy, AWD Automatic and AWD Lock for snowy or muddy roads. While all SX4 hatchbacks come standard with all-wheel drive, it’s worth noting that the vehicle isn’t appropriate for off-road use, but should perform exceptionally well on snow-covered road surfaces.
Exterior styling is a major leap forward from the frumpy Aerio, Reno and Forenza sedans; the latter two will eventually be replaced by the SX4 Sport sedan.
Interior room feels surprisingly large for a car this size. The high roof and wide body provide ample space for my 6-foot 6-inch frame. The quality has been upgraded from Aerio, but acres of hard plastic surfaces still abound. Dressed up with some metallic trim, it looks better than most in this class.
Cargo and luggage space is the best of any vehicle in its class, at 38.1 cubic feet. Fit offers only 21.3 cubic feet and Nissan Versa a measly 17.8. Fold the SX4’s rear seat and cargo space jumps to 54 cubic feet.
SX4 is available in two well-equipped models: the SX4 crossover (in all-wheel or front-wheel drive) and the SX4 Sport front-wheel drive sedan. All come with standard air conditioning, five-speed manual transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, power windows/locks/mirrors, intermittent wipers, roof rails, tilt steering column, 60/40 split folding rear seats, floor mats and AM/FM/CD/MP3.
Options include a four-speed automatic transmission ($1000); convenience package with steering wheel audio controls, leather wrapped steering wheel and cruise control ($500); numerous interior and exterior accessories to dress up the vehicle; and a touring package ($1600) that features keyless entry and start, electronic stability control, traction control, fog lights, an upgraded audio system with six-disc CD changer, and a rear spoiler.
Standard safety gear includes front, side and side-curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes and antilock brakes. The SX4 has not yet been crash tested.
Factory warranty is a generous 100,000-mile/7-year transferable powertrain and provides for a free loaner car when the SX4 is in for a warrantable repair.
The SX4 seems to have all the right features, inside and out, to make it a worthy daily commuter and a logical choice for economy-minded residents of the snowy mountain areas of our state. It’s the best car you never heard of.
