2007 Suzuki Forenza: Road Test
Archived Review
2007 Suzuki Forenza ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $13,999 -$16,649
- Invoice: $13,439 -$15,983
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Suzuki Forenza
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2007 Suzuki Forenza includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Suzuki Forenza from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Suzuki Forenza, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Suzuki Forenza help you decide if a 2007 Suzuki Forenza is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4.6 |
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 is still lacking.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Not outstanding for small, 4-cyl cars. Test sedans averaged 17.8 mpg with manual transmission, 29.5 in mostly highway driving. Automatic-transmission models averaged just 17.8 mpg in mostly city driving.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Generally comfortable on broken surfaces, especially for the compact class, though bigger bumps jostle occupants. Less settled on rough roads than segment-leading Honda Civic, Volkswagen Rabbit.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Quick, responsive steering, but noticeable body lean even at modest cornering speeds. Standard four-wheel disc brakes a nice plus in this price range, provide fine pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
Engine roars intrusively during acceleration, turns buzzy at higher speeds. Some suspension pounding over bumps, substantial wind rush at freeway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
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)
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Plenty of head and leg room, even for taller folks. Standard tilt steering wheel and height-adjustable driver seat appreciated. Visibility better than average in all body styles, though some testers say rear headrests interfere with over-the-shoulder view.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
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
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 7 | 4.8 |
Sedan has wide trunklid, low liftover, capacity slightly below average for the class. Wagon has usefully larger cargo holds and generous liftgate opening.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
Forenza falls behind most class rivals in refinement and fuel economy, and, with automatic transmission, in acceleration. Suzuki resale values don't yet match those of more-established Japanese makes, either. But Forenzas have an impressive list of standard features for attractive prices, and they're roomier than most compact-sedan rivals.
Total Score
| Base sdn, man. | Conven. sdn, auto. | Conven. wgn, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | 44 | 50 | 52.8 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Compact Cars














