2008 Suzuki Reno [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 32 Reno reviews and test drives.
Suzuki Reno - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Suzuki Reno ranks 28 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Reno, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Reno delivers reasonable exterior style and interior spaciousness, but can't match the smooth handling, fuel economy, and number of standard safety features found in other cars in its class.
Although the 2008 Suzuki Reno is reasonably stylish, comfortable and well equipped, it isn't competitive within its class and price range on handling, fuel economy or safety. Still, most reviews say despite only having a very basic list of standard safety features, the Reno is still an adequate car. The Washington Post writes, "The Reno is a good, reasonably fuel-efficient commuter. It is a city car, a neighborhood runner. It does well in those environments; and anyone buying the car for that specific use, as a daily urban commuter, is buying something of measurable value."
If you're in the market for an affordable compact, also consider the top-scoring vehicles of the class, the Honda Fit or Honda Civic.
- "Suzuki's cheapest car is a sleek-looking and practical hatchback that comes standard with many power features and a seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. But the driving experience is very forgettable-the Reno finished dead last in a recent seven-car comparison test." -- Car and Driver
- "Reno's surprises went beyond performance. Compact car; big ambitions. Welcome to Reno." -- Sacramento Bee
- "A decent little hatchback for people in need of inexpensive, reliable but otherwise unremarkable personal transportation." -- Washington Post
- "With perky acceleration, responsive brakes, and agile lane-change maneuverability, it's the frugal-with-flair alternative" -- Motor Trend
- "If you want a hatchback, by all means consider the Reno, but drive the Forenza before you make up your mind." -- Orlando Sentinel
Reno Performance - 6.1 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Suzuki Reno is plagued by slow acceleration, sloppy handling and only moderate fuel economy. The Washington Post says "at suburban and urban commuter speeds, it feels downright substantial. Just don't make the mistake of taking it on the highway for too long a run." Our full Performance Review gives more reviewer comments on the Reno's performance. continue
Reno Exterior - 7.4 (Good)
The Suzuki Reno looks good, but many say it lacks emotion. Check out the Suzuki Reno's Photo Gallery for the chance to judge for yourself, or read our full Exterior Review for auto writers' opinions of the Reno's design. continue
Reno Interior - 7.1 (Good)
The Reno's interior cabin is generally praised for its comfortable seats, convenient standard features and competitive storage space. Not everything is perfect, though. The Detroit News says, "Little things add up to a less than perfect score." Check out the Suzuki Reno Photo Gallery to see some of the Reno's standard cabin features, or continue with our full Interior Review for an overview of the cabin materials, seat comfort and cargo room. continue
Reno Safety - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Reviewers hardly seem impressed with the Reno's very short and basic list of standard safety features. Plus the 2008 Reno gets mediocre scores in government and insurance industry crash tests. Our full Safety Review gives more in-depth information on the Forenza's crash test ratings and safety equipment. continue
Reno Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Suzuki Reno 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). The Suzuki Reno has a basic warranty that is good for the first three years or 36,000 miles. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about the Reno's far-from-basic powertrain warranty. continue
