2004 Suzuki Forenza Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2004 Suzuki Forenza includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Suzuki Forenza from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Suzuki Forenza, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Suzuki Forenza help you decide if a 2004 Suzuki Forenza is right for you.

2004 Suzuki Forenza Road Test

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

EX, auto.	Class Average
3	4

Automatic-transmission Forenza only model made available for testing. Good progress from a stop fades to modest acceleration as speed rises. Transmission downshifts very quickly for more power, but requires a hard shove on the throttle and results in more noise than progress at higher speeds.

Fuel Economy

EX, auto.	Class Average
5	6.6

Test EX with automatic transmission averaged 17.8 mpg in mostly city driving. Suzuki recommends regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

EX, auto.	Class Average
3	4.4

Stiff and bouncy; bigger bumps jostle occupants. Below par for subcompact class.

Steering/Handling/Braking

EX, auto.	Class Average
3	5.3

Light, responsive steering, but noticeable body lean even at modest cornering speeds. 4-wheel disc brakes provide fine pedal feel, and ABS is available on all models.

Quietness

EX, auto.	Class Average
3	4

Engine roars under acceleration, turns buzzy at higher speeds. Noticeable pounding over bumps. Wind noise high at freeway speeds.

Controls

EX, auto.	Class Average
6	5.6

Audio, climate controls clear and easy to reach and use, though mounted just a bit low. Materials impress for the price.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

EX, auto.	Class Average
6	5.1

Plenty of head and leg room, even for taller folks. Standard tilt steering wheel and height-adjustable driver seat appreciated. Visibility better than average for sedans.

Room/Comfort (rear)

EX, auto.	Class Average
4	3.9

Adequate head, leg, and toe room for adults as long as front seats aren't more than halfway back. Entry/exit good for a subcompact.

Cargo Room

EX, auto.	Class Average
2	3.9

Wide trunklid, low liftover, capacity slightly below average for the class.

Value within Class

EX, auto.	Class Average
4	5.6

Forenza comes with a host of standard features for an attractive price, and offers better interior space than most subcompacts. But it falls behind competitors in performance and refinement, and Suzuki resale values don't match those of more-established Japanese makes.

Total Score