2008 Suzuki Forenza [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 25 Forenza reviews and test drives.
Suzuki Forenza - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Suzuki Forenza ranks 28 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Forenza, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Forenza is a basic, budget-friendly car for around-town travel, but receives troubling safety scores and lacks the engine power of others in its class.
The 2008 Suzuki Forenza offers a spacious interior for an economy car, but it has little else to distinguish it from the competition. On the positive side, several reviewers agree with the Orlando Sentinel's description of the Forenza as "a competent, attractive little sedan at a very affordable price." On the negative side, several reviewers also knock the Forenza's weak engine performance and miserly gas mileage.
Above all, Suzuki markets the Forenza on its price tag. U.S. News' reviewer Rick Newman says he's not sure if he could be persuaded "to pick a Forenza over vehicles with proven durability, like the Corolla or Civic, but it might get me into the showroom. And once there, I might do what I do at Wal-Mart: start buying stuff just because it seems too cheap to pass up." The 2008 Forenza is available in one trim as a four-door sedan, and is also offered as a five-door wagon. The Forenza was a new model last year, and is virtually unchanged for 2008. If you're in the market for an affordable compact, consider the Civic or the Honda Fit.
- "Far too appliance-like to be considered by anyone with an interest in driving. For those folks, however, it's a decent option." -- Car and Driver
- "Given the price, and the likelihood that a Suzuki dealer might be more willing to deal on a Forenza than a Honda dealer will on a Civic, this is a nice car for a single person or a small family." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "The Forenza sedan is designed to offer a strong value in a sea of value-priced compact sedans." -- New Car Test Drive
- "Underwhelming pretty much sums up my experience." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Forenza Performance - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The Forenza offers decent performance for around town driving, but little else, contributing to a mediocre performance score. Car and Driver notices, "Roly-poly suspension, weak engine, and clunky automatic shifter make this one not for enthusiasts." Continue with our full Performance Review to read more about the Forenza's performance stamina. continue
Forenza Exterior - 7.2 (Good)
The 2008 Suzuki Forenza is an attractive car in a class with rather uniform styling, but experts still say there are other cars with sportier or more modern frames. Check out the Suzuki Forenza Photo Gallery for images of the sedan, or continue with our full Exterior Review to learn more about the Forenza's much-needed exterior update in 2006. continue
Forenza Interior - 7.2 (Good)
The five-seat Suzuki Forenza's interior score is in the middle of its class. Roomy seating and a good number of features are positives, but most test drivers find the seats uncomfortable and the quality of materials debatable. Check out the Suzuki Forenza Photo Gallery to see how much space is provided for five, or read our full Interior Review for information on the Forenza stereo as well as other cabin features. continue
Forenza Safety - 6.2 (Mediocre)
The Suzuki Forenza is equipped with basic safety features, but its performance in government and insurance industry crash tests is less than impressive. Our full Safety Review gives more in-depth information on the Forenza's crash test ratings and safety equipment. continue
Forenza Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Suzuki Forenza 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). All Suzukis come equipped with a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more about Suzuki's impressive powertrain coverage. continue
