2008 Suzuki Reno: Road Test
Archived Review
2008 Suzuki Reno ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $13,599 -$15,099
- Invoice: $13,055 -$14,495
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Suzuki Forenza
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2008 Suzuki Reno includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Suzuki Reno from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Suzuki Reno, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Suzuki Reno help you decide if a 2008 Suzuki Reno is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.8 |
Only Renos with the manual transmission have been made available for us to test so far. They have adequate acceleration, but passing power is lacking. Similar Forenza sedans with automatic transmission have good acceleration from a stop, but progress fades as speed rises.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
Not outstanding for small, 4-cylinder cars. A manual-transmission Reno Convenience averaged 23.4 mpg during its 10,094-mile extended-use test. Reno uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.1 |
Generally comfortable on broken surfaces, especially among compact cars. Bigger bumps can jostle occupants. Reno is less settled on rough roads than the class pacesetters.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
Quick, responsive steering, but there's noticeable body lean even at modest cornering speeds. Standard 4-wheel disc brakes are a nice plus in this price range, but Suzuki should make ABS standard.
QUIETNESS
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.5 |
The engine roars intrusively during acceleration and turns buzzy at higher speeds. There's some suspension pounding over bumps and substantial wind rush at freeway speeds.
CONTROLS
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Clear gauges are nicely lit. Audio and climate controls are easy to use, but they're mounted a bit low for quick, easy access.
DETAILS
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.2 |
Switchgear has a quality feel. Use of quality plastics and solid assembly quality belie Reno's low price.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller folks. Visibility is better than average, though some testers say rear headrests interfere with the over-the-shoulder view.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.1 |
Headroom, legroom, and foot space are adequate for adults as long as the front seats aren't set far back. Entry and exit are good for a compact.
CARGO ROOM
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 4.9 |
Reno has a usefully large cargo hold and a generous liftgate opening.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.2 |
Reno isn't as mechanically refined as most class rivals. Acceleration is tepid, especially with the automatic transmission. Fuel economy isn't as high as it should be for a compact 4-cylinder car. The more-established Japanese makes beat Suzuki on resale value, too. Reno does deliver an impressive list of standard features for attractive prices, and it out paces many rivals for passenger and cargo room.
Total Score
| Convenience, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 57 | 58.7 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Compact Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Buying a
Used Car?
Used Car?
Start your research
with a CARFAX® Report
with a CARFAX® Report
No VIN Available?
Order a CARFAX®
Report Package
Report Package
