2005 Suzuki Reno: Road Test
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2005 Suzuki Reno ▼
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- MSRP: $13,449 -$17,049
- Invoice: $12,776 -$16,196
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Our road test for the 2005 Suzuki Reno includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Suzuki Reno from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Suzuki Reno, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Suzuki Reno help you decide if a 2005 Suzuki Reno is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.1 |
With automatic transmission, 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. Acceleration livelier with manual transmission, though passing power lacking.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.7 |
Not outstanding for a small, 4-cyl car. Extended-use-test Reno LX with manual transmission averaging 24.4 mpg over its first 7318 miles.
RIDE QUALITY
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Generally comfortable on broken surfaces, especially among the compact class, though bigger bumps jostle occupants. Less settled on rough roads than segment-leading Honda Civic, Mazda 3.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.4 |
Light, responsive steering, but noticeable body lean even at modest cornering speeds. Four-wheel disc brakes as standard a nice plus in this price range, provide fine pedal feel. ABS availability on all models another laudable asset for the class.
QUIETNESS
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4 |
Engine roars intrusively during acceleration, turns buzzy at higher speeds. Some suspension pounding over bumps. Substantial wind rush at freeway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.5 |
Clear gauges nicely lit. Audio, climate controls simple to use and understand, though mounted just a bit low. Switchgear has quality feel. Materials impress for the price.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5 |
Plenty of head and leg room, even for taller folks. Standard tilt steering wheel and height-adjustable driver seat appreciated. Visibility better than average, though some testers say rear headrests interfere with over-the-shoulder view.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.6 |
Adequate head, leg, and toe room for adults as long as front seats aren't more than halfway back. Entry/exit good for a compact.
CARGO ROOM
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 3.9 |
Reno has large usefull cargo hold and generous liftgate openings. Interior storage par for the class.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
Reno lags behind class rivals in refinement and fuel economy, and in acceleration with automatic transmission. Plus, Suzuki resale values don't yet match those of more-established Japanese makes. But this roomy hatchback is fun to drive and offers an impressive list of standard features for attractive prices.
Total Score
| Reno LX hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 51 | 48.6 |
Total Score: 51
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