Forenza improves, offers value galore
This week we test-drive the Forenza EX, Suzuki’s upscale compact that comes delivered for just $16,949. Unlike the LX and S models, the EX offers an “everything under one roof” car at a price that is extremely affordable.
Now in its second year, Suzuki’s premium compact sedan still offers the qualities that attract consumers, especially its 22-mpg city and 30-mpg highway EPA ratings.
Outwardly, Forenza makes a nice aesthetic statement, combining a stylish front end with hints of chrome and matching color trim. The standard 195/55R/15-inch tires look good on alloy wheels, while the power sunroof is another noteworthy standard feature. Add built-in fog lamps, and you have a pretty sporty package that will look good in anyone’s driveway.
Under the hood sits a 2-liter, double-overhead-cam, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder engine that develops 126 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. Although it offers sufficient power for its lightweight mass, the four-speed automatic pulls performance down a bit. Last year we tested a five-speed manual Forenza, and we recommend it over the automatic if peppier driving is desired.
The top-of-the-line EX comes only with the automatic, so if you want the manual transmission you’ll have to settle for a lesser-equipped LX or S model. (The S Model starts at only $13,449. Check for dealer incentives for as much as $1,500 available on all Forenzas.)
All three Forenza models have power-assisted steering and four-wheel disc brakes, a definite bonus as you often see dated drum brakes in the rear on “lesser-priced” cars. Not so with Forenza, and we applaud Suzuki in this area. However, if you want ABS, it will cost another $500 and is the only option available on the EX model.
The cabin includes all expected safety items, plus some features you’d see only on more expensive vehicles. Included with the EX are leather-trimmed seats, air conditioning, cruise, AM/FM/CD/cassette audio with eight speakers, tilt steering with remote stereo controls, driver seat-height adjuster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, 60/40 split folding rear seats, floor mats and all the powers, including the aforementioned power tilt/slide moonroof.
Add other items like remote power trunk release, remote keyless entry and heated remote power mirrors, and you’ve got a lot of car for just $16,949. Forenza is way ahead of competitor models when it comes to standard features, and even delivers the car to the dealer for free so there is no destination charge.
The ride is good, thanks to an independent MacPherson strut-type front suspension and an independent dual-link rear setup. Gas-pressurized shock absorbers help the ride in all areas, especially cornering and traversing those twisty country roads.
Overall, Forenza still matches up nicely to the Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra, although all three are tough competitors. The Korean-built Forenza continues to improve in all areas, with well-built cars replacing the former “bad reputations” of Korean-made vehicles in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Suzuki feels so confident that it offers a 100,000-mile, seven-year transferable powertrain limited warranty and a 24/7/365 roadside-assistance program. The engine comes from Australia, so there is much international sharing in the production of every Forenza.
Important numbers include a wheelbase of 102.4 inches, curb weight of 2,756 pounds, 14.5 gallon fuel capacity (regular unleaded) and 12.4 cubic-feet of cargo space.
The Forenza EX is worthy of a strong 8.5 on a scale of one to 10.
Likes: Looks, ride and loads of “extras” for one low price.
Dislikes: More power needed, no traction control available.