2010 Suzuki SX4: Road Test
2010 Suzuki SX4 ▼
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- MSRP: $13,359 - $19,949
- Invoice: $12,825 - $19,151
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Our road test for the 2010 Suzuki SX4 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Suzuki SX4 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Suzuki SX4, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Suzuki SX4 help you decide if a 2010 Suzuki SX4 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3.4 |
With the CVT, the SX4 is not slow, however it lacks the immediate throttle response of previous versions equipped with the conventional 4-speed automatic transmission. Using the CVT's manual shift gate improves response somewhat. The CVT on one test model suffered from bogging on deceleration, creating the impression that the car would stall upon coming to a complete stop. The manual transmission is the better choice here. It offers improved acceleration, smooth clutch takeup, and generally agreeable shift action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission hatchback averaged 26.9 mpg. A sedan averaged 26.1 mpg, not overly impressive for a small car equipped with a CVT. All SX4s use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
All models tested had the available sport suspension. These SX4s ride fairly firmly but are not uncomfortable. The limber but nicely damped suspension irons out most rough pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Quick, nicely weighted steering and stable cornering make SX4 feel nimble despite moderate body lean in fast turns. Brake-pedal action is firm and progressive on all SX4s. The turning radius is surprisingly (and disappointingly) large for a vehicle with such tidy dimensions.
QUIETNESS
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3.9 |
Wind noise is modest, even on the hatchback, and there's little thumping over bumps. The engine sounds coarse and unrefined, especially during full-throttle acceleration. The CVT whines and groans, making it tiresome even for short commutes. Again, the manual transmission is better in this regard.
CONTROLS
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
An orthodox dashboard design holds clear gauges and simple, handy minor controls. The navigation system is a Garmin-brand unit that pops up from the top of the dashboard. Its controls are just out of reach for some of our testers, and its screen is a bit small for easy reading and access.
DETAILS
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Cabin materials are appropriate for the price. Test examples have shown fine detail finish.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Headroom is ample despite a high seating position for the class, but legroom is just OK for lanky folks. Seats are ordinary for shape and padding. Some testers complain that the front roof pillars impede the view to the sides. Others wish the steering wheel was telescopic. With the manual transmission, the pedals are a bit too close together.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
The seat is relatively high--a boon for overall comfort. Head clearance is good for six-footers, and legroom and foot space are good even with the seats set far back.
CARGO ROOM
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 4 | 5.4 |
The sedan has a roomy trunk for the car's exterior size, and kudos to Suzuki for including split-folding seatbacks on sedans, when this feature was previously unavailable. Hatchbacks have very good cargo room, aided by convenient under-floor storage. Cabin storage is useful but not abundant.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 6.8 |
SX4 is roomy, solid, and offers uncommon class features, such as AWD and a navigation system. All models lag most rivals for fuel economy, but pricing is reasonable, which makes this Suzuki a Recommended pick. If SX4 is on your shopping list, be sure to try the manual transmission, as the unrefined CVT saps much of the enjoyment from driving this sporty subcompact.
Total Score
| GTS Sportback, manual | GTS sedan, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 66 | 59 | 58.3 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Subcompact Cars
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