1995-2002 Suzuki Esteem: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Pros
- Fuel economy
- Cargo room (wagon)
- Maneuverability
Cons
- Rear visibility
- Noise
- Ride
Vehicle Highlights
Suzuki introduced its subcompact Esteem 4-door sedan in spring 1995, as a larger companion to the Swift hatchback. Stylists claimed the shape was European-inspired. The front-drive sedan rode a 97.6-inch wheelbase (4.5 inches longer than the Swift) and, at 165.2 inches, measured nearly 16 inches longer overall. Three versions went on sale: base GL, midrange GLX, and top-line GLX with antilock brakes and cruise control. Only the top GLX had standard air conditioning. A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 98 horsepower, drove either a 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. Power steering was standard on all models. GLX editions added a cassette stereo, as well as power windows and door locks.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Suzuki Esteem Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 8 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 35 |
Year to Year Changes
Our road test for the 1995-2002 Suzuki Esteem includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1995-2002 Suzuki Esteem and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1995-2002 Suzuki Esteem is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Unimpressive in most areas, except for fuel economy, the Esteem does not deliver acceptable value. For not too many extra dollars, several good alternatives can be found, including a Honda Civic, Geo Prizm, Chevrolet Cavalier, or Dodge/Plymouth Neon.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Suzuki Esteem Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 2 | |
| Fuel Economy | 8 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 35 |
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $385 |
| Alternator | $420 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $710 |
| Brakes | $350 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $350 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $580 |
| Exhaust System | $275 |
| Radiator | $295 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $650 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $330 |
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
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| 2002 | |||
| Esteem | $3,100-4,200 | $2,400-3,300 | $700-1,000 |
| 2001 | |||
| Esteem | $2,500-3,500 | $1,800-2,600 | $500-700 |
| 2000 | |||
| Esteem | $2,100-2,800 | $1,500-2,000 | $400-500 |
| 1999 | |||
| Esteem | $1,800-2,500 | $1,200-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 1998 | |||
| Esteem | $1,500-2,100 | $1,000-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 1997 | |||
| Esteem | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1996 | |||
| Esteem | $1,100-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1995 | |||
| Esteem | $1,000-1,400 | $600-800 | $100 |
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Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 97.6 | 97.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 165.2 | 171.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 65.7 | 66.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 53.9 | 55.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2227 | 2359 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.0 | 24.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.5 | 13.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.1 | 38.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.3 | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 | 38.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.1 | 36.6 |
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Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 122 | 117 | 5-speed manual: 28/35 4-speed automatic: 26/33 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 24.2 |
| ohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 95-98 | 94-99 | 5-speed manual: 30/37 4-speed automatic: 27/33 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 35 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.








