2003 Suzuki Aerio: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Suzuki's entry-level subcompact sedan and wagon get optional all-wheel-drive for 2003, making them among the lowest-priced AWD vehicles available. Aerio comes as a 4-dr sedan and 4-dr wagon, both with a 145-hp 4 cyl that's among the most-powerful standard engines in the subcompact class. Manual transmission and extra-cost automatic are available. Aerio's sedan offers S and uplevel GS trim. The wagon is a single SX model. Front-wheel drive is standard. Suzuki's QuadGrip AWD is a $1000 option available on GS and SX models with automatic transmission. ABS is optional on GS and SX only. Every Aerio comes with air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, tilt steering wheel, CD player, and split folding rear seats. The GS sedan and SX use 15-inch alloy wheels, the S 14-inch steel rims.

COMPETITION

Honda Civic continues to be the car to beat with a wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. Also a Best Buy, Ford Focus doesn't offer the refinement of the Civic, but doesn't cost as much either.

Topping the crowded Recommended list are Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the redesigned but still reliable Toyota Corolla, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege. Each of these is a valid alternative to a Best Buy if price is your major concern.