1996-1998 Suzuki X-90: Road Test

Basically, the strange-looking X-90 feels like a tall, crude sports car from the 1960s--one that could use a semester or two of finishing school to gain some refinement. At highway speeds, occupants in the X-90 are bombarded by excessive engine noise, road rumble, and wind howl. The engine itself produces a loud, coarse growl when accelerating. Wind noise grows intrusive around the removable roof panels at speeds beyond 35 mph. You can expect a lively ride--but not in the fun-filled sense. There's a lot of bouncing and pitching on the highway, coupled with stiff, jarring reactions to bumpy pavement. Because it's tall and lightweight, too, the X-90 is easily buffeted by crosswinds. Not really an SUV, the X-90 is not meant for even gentle off-road driving, despite 4WD availability. Acceleration and passing power are adequate with manual shift, though you'll often have to floor the gas pedal to achieve decent results. And when you do, that action generates considerable noise and vibration. The pace slows considerably in an X-90 with automatic, but noise levels are just as unpleasant. We averaged 23.5 mpg in a 4WD model with 5-speed. Head and leg room are adequate for 6-footers. Unlike many 4WD vehicles, entry/exit is easy, with almost no step-up into the interior. Visibility to the front and sides is good, but wide rear pillars create large obstructions over both shoulders. Climate controls are simple and well-marked. Stereo controls are tiny, and nearly impossible to use in the dark. Storage space behind the seats is minimal, and doors are devoid of map pockets. The trunk is narrow and not particularly deep, and the spare tire eats up some of the potential luggage space.

Value for the Money
Being unique does not necessarily translate to being popular--or desirable. Whether intended as a sport-utility or a car, the X-90 is not a good value, especially when compared to the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, or Jeep Wrangler. For a modestly priced sporty small car, consider something like the Dodge/Plymouth Neon or Chevrolet Cavalier/Pontiac Sunfire.