Teresa’s View
You rebel. Yeah, I’m talking to you – and so is Suzuki. The same company that brought you the GSX-R motorcycle says its aim when developing the all-new SX4 was to create a car that’s as fun to drive as its bikes. Hmm. That may be stretching it a bit. The SX4 is fun to drive, but not in the same `hell-bent for leather` way one feels on the back of a bike. Still, it has that spirit.
The SX4 replaces the Aerio SX hatchback, although you could say that, as the smallest sport-utish offering in the Suzuki lineup, the SX4 actually replaces the long-gone Samurai.
Its most eye-catching design element is the triangles of glass similar to “wing windows” of yore, except they don’t open. Reality Check: If you are old enough to remember wing windows, you are not a rebel anymore. I don’t care what your ex-wife says.
The wide backside also includes an extra bit of windows at the corners. The result is a light, bright cabin with almost no blind spots.
A heavily tweaked 143-horsepower 2.0-liter engine borrowed from the Aerio sedan powers the SX4. It’s the power that differentiates the SX4 from its pint-size competitors, although it’s the extra weight that keeps the SX4 from being a true roadrocket.
What makes the SX4 so unique is its optional intelligent all-wheel drive system. Keep it in two-wheel drive for the best gas mileage or AWD auto for carefree motoring. A manual switch can be used to lock it in AWD during slippery conditions. The car will automatically flip back to AWD auto when speeds reach 36 mph.
What Is It?: The SX4 is an all-new, four-door, five-passenger, subcompact sport crossover vehicle (good grief, doesn’t that make it an SCUV?) It’s offered in two trims: Base and Sport. Both are available in front- or all-wheel drive. The SX4 sells for $15K plus destination charges, making it the lowest priced all-wheel drive vehicle in America.
The Name Game: If you parse the name – SX4 – you get “S” for sport, “X” for crossover and “4” for four seasons.
Safety: Of course safety is important. (You’re a rebel, not stupid.) Anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitor, front seat side airbags and curtain airbags are standard on all trims. Stability control is only available on the Sport.
Grocery Sack Test: The backend opens wide, however, the slightly wedged shape makes the liftover a bit high. Folding rear seats tumble forward for a flat floor and additional cargo space.
Fill ‘er Up: EPA ratings are 24 mpg city and 28 highway for the automatic version. Unfortunately, the 11.9 gallon gas tank means a fuel stop on cross-state treks.
Wait For It: There are rumblings that Suzuki plans to offer a World Rally Championship (WRC) version of the SX4. No word if it will be offered in the States.
Cheat Sheet: Suzuki and General Motors Canada sell passenger cars and SUVs in North America through a joint venture.