2007 Suzuki SX-4
| TEST COMPLETE |
While Suzuki calls SX4 a crossover, its tidy 98.4-inch wheelbase and $14,999 base price put it squarely in the subcompact car segment. It paces the class with a laudable 35.9 inches of rear legroom and a 143-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.
Hatchback SX4s like our test vehicle come standard with all-wheel drive, an exclusive feature in the subcompact class. Note that Suzuki added a 4-door sedan body style to the SX4 roster for 2008. Those versions come with front-wheel drive only.
Our manual-transmission Base SX4 hatchback's lengthy standard equipment list included antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and power windows and locks. We would recommend getting the available Convenience Package (priced as a separate model), as it includes cruise control and automatic climate control. SX4s with "Touring Package 2" add traction control, an antiskid system, and keyless access and starting.
Though it is among the most powerful subcompacts, all-wheel drive SX4 hatchbacks tip the scale at more than 2,850 lb, making them at least 200 lb heavier than their rivals. Our test car required a heavy throttle foot in most driving conditions. That took a toll on our ears with its coarse engine note. It also took a bit of a toll on our wallets, as we averaged a somewhat disappointing 25.8 mpg (our extended-use Honda Fit averaged 31.9 mpg). Further, the hatchback's tiny 11-gallon gas tank meant a cruising range of less than 250 miles for most of our drivers.
In spite of these shortcomings, we named the SX4 a Best Buy for its crafty blend of tidy exterior size, features-per-dollar appeal, and dash of "crossover" flavor.
Editors' Comments
Damon Bell: If all-wheel drive is at the top of your list of desired subcompact features, the SX4 is for you. It's a pleasant-enough car, but I am disappointed in the SX4's EPA fuel economy ratings, which are up to 10 mpg worse than other vehicles in the class.
Chuck Giametta: As a roomy, subcompact wagon with a "crossover" feel, the SX4's natural rival is the Honda Fit. SX4s run some $1,000 more than Fit counterparts, but for that, Suzuki provides all-wheel drive, more horsepower, and arguably a more substantial-feeling structure. Both cars suffer more engine ruckus than many people would want to live with. And Fit wins on cargo space, handling, and reputation for resale value. Both are attractive buys in their own right, but the real significance here is that a Suzuki holds its own in an argument with a Honda.
Jennifer Geiger: I spent over 560 miles in this car and no one knew what it was. That's a shame because SX4 is a great, affordable subcompact car that deserves to be looked at by the youngish, city crowd for its compact styling, ample interior room, and available AWD. Normally I'm disappointed by its gas mileage, but I averaged 29.1 mpg on this trip--not bad.
Tom Appel: What's not to like? The spunky SX4 seats four adults in relative comfort, has better than adequate power, is fun to drive, and boasts a fairly sophisticated AWD system for $15,000. For the SUV intender on a budget, your vehicle has arrived. Note however that our average observed 24 mpg trails most vehicles in the subcompact car class.
Ed Piotrowski: SX4 succeeds by delivering good passenger and cargo space,
standard all-wheel drive, and lots of other standard features for the money.
Regrettably, it falls short in terms of fuel economy, which is the one area that
matters most to buyers of small cars.
| 2007 Suzuki SX4 | ||
 | ||
| Bodystyle: | 4-door wagon | |
| Model: | Base | |
| Engine: | 143-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | |
| Transmission: | 5-speed manual | |
| Total Miles: | 10,090 |
|
| CG® Observed Fuel Economy: | 25.8 mpg | |
| Problems During Test: | None | |
| Base Price: | $14,999 | |
| Price as Tested: | $15,594 | |
| Major Options: |
None | |
