Suzuki SX4
Overall Score - 7.7 (Good)
The SX4 delivers all-wheel-drive capability, plenty of cargo space, and a well-equipped interior on a budget, but because of its heavy curb weight, it can't match the fuel economy or acceleration of others in its class. If you're in the market for an affordable subcompact car, you should also consider the Nissan Versa and Honda Fit.
Reviewers generally agree the all-new 2007 Suzuki SX4 is an affordable, roomy and enjoyable performer, especially in snowy and slippery conditions. A Consumer Guide "Recommended" pick, the SX4 is a five-door hatchback that will replace the Aerio in Suzuki's lineup. The Washington Post calls it "probably the best-designed, best-built, best-looking automobile Suzuki has brought to America since it set up shop in this country in 1963."
Car and Driver notes both the new subcompact's high points and shortcomings, commenting, "Although the SX4 is not quite as fun to drive or versatile as the Honda Fit, the SX4 is unique with its all-weather mobility and almost-SUV-like height of 63.2 inches, and that may be enough to make it a success." The SX4's major downsides are its sometimes sluggish engine and poor fuel economy -- both in large part due to a hefty curb weight. Edmunds concludes "if you live in an area that gets weather, the all-wheel-drive 2007 Suzuki SX4 may be your ideal new hatchback, but if fuel economy is a priority, the Honda Fit is the thriftier option."
Reviewers delight in the fact that the SX4 is the least expensive all-wheel-drive ride on the market -- in fact, it's "some $3,000 less than the second-lowest-priced all-wheel-drive vehicle on the market, which is the 2007 Subaru Impreza 2.5i," according to the Orlando Sentinel. Kelley Blue Book says, "A friendly little car with a distinctive design, the SX4 fits nicely into the economy-plus-power niche that the budget-conscious buyer seeks."
Road and Track also weighs in on the SX4's affordability, noting, "This 5-seat, 5-door hatch comes in at a base price of about $15,000. Not bad for something that has the interior volume of a station wagon and all-wheel drive." But value over time isn't quite as impressive: IntelliChoice gives the base model a value rating of "average" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to others in its class. On the plus side, it also names the SX4 a Best in Class winner for Lowest Ownership Costs.
The SX4 comes in two trims, the base model and the Sport, which share a 2.4-liter engine paired with a manual or optional automatic transmission. Both trims come standard with three-mode all-wheel drive, though the Sport also adds a variety of interior and safety features.
SX4 Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)
Most test drivers say the all-wheel-drive 2007 Suzuki SX4 is fun to drive, even if its heavy weight overwhelms the engine at times. Road and Track praises the SX4 as a "genuinely competent recreational vehicle, one that offers...a solid chassis and an adequate engine." continue
SX4 Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
Auto writers generally see the 2007 Suzuki SX4's exterior as pleasing. "From the outside, the SX4's squat dimensions, tall windows and large side mirrors, which bear some resemblance to Mickey Mouse's ears, deliver a welcome dose of cuteness," says the New York Times. continue
SX4 Interior - 7.5 (Good)
Reviewers generally see the 2007 Suzuki SX4's five-seat interior as functional and surprisingly upscale for its affordable price point. The Washington Post calls the interior "simple, yet elegant. And it's big enough...to comfortably seat five people." continue
SX4 Safety - NA
The 2007 Suzuki SX4 is too new for crash test data, but offers a generous helping of standard safety features to reassure buyers. These include side curtain air bags, anti-lock brakes and all-wheel drive. continue
SX4 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Suzuki SX4 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Based on the U.S. News analysis of reliability information from a number of different sources, the 2007 Suzuki SX4 receives mediocre marks for predicted reliability. The SX4 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
