2008 Suzuki SX4 Wagon [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 28 SX4-Wagon reviews and test drives.
Suzuki SX4 Wagon - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Suzuki SX4 Wagon ranks 6 out of 12 Affordable Compact Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 28 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki SX4 Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The SX4 Wagon's all-wheel-drive capability, abundant cargo space, well-equipped interior and budget price are plusses. But because of its heavy curb weight it can't match the fuel economy or acceleration of others in its class, and ranks toward the middle of the affordable compact wagons.
The 2008 Suzuki SX4 Wagon is an affordable, roomy and enjoyable performer, especially in snowy and slippery conditions. The SX4's major downsides are its sometimes sluggish engine and poor fuel economy -- both in large part due to a hefty curb weight. The SX4's plusses and minuses factor into its mid-pack ranking in the affordable compact wagon class.
But the SX4 Wagon is one of the least expensive all-wheel-drive rides on the market. Road and Track says, "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 Crossover and all-wheel drive." Also available as a four-door sedan, the SX4 has a 2.4-liter engine that can be paired with a manual or optional automatic transmission.
- "A genuinely competent recreational vehicle, one that offers gobs of storage, good fuel mileage, a solid chassis and an adequate engine." -- Road and Track
- "Probably the best-designed, best-built, best-looking automobile Suzuki has brought to America since it set up shop in this country in 1963." -- Washington Post
- "At less than 15-grand, considering the quality and content of the SX4 I'd call it a first-rate value with enough fun that we won't easily get bored." -- The Auto Channel
- "Straddling a razor-thin line between the baby sport utility and the all-wheel-drive economy car." -- New York Times
- "Except for its standard all-wheel drive, nothing about the SX4 will surprise, delight or thrill, and the SX4 probably won't satisfy the interior cubic footage requirements of most American families as the household's principal car. But its prices and generally pleasant personality make it worth considering as a second car/commuter." -- Newsday
SX4-Wagon Performance - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The all-wheel drive 2008 Suzuki SX4 gets a mediocre performance score because its pleasant drive is mitigated by a heavy curb weight. Still Road and Track calls the SX4 a "genuinely competent recreational vehicle, one that offers…a solid chassis and an adequate engine." Continue with our full Performance Review to see what other test drivers had to say. continue
SX4-Wagon Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2008 Suzuki SX4 wagon's pleasing exterior doesn't fare well in a class with the sleek lines of the Volvo C30 or the boxy appeal of the Scion xB. But still, the New York Times says 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." Check out our Suzuki SX4 Wagon Photos, or continue with our full Exterior Review for in-depth descriptions of the unconventional style. continue
SX4-Wagon Interior - 7.5 (Good)
Once again, the 2008 Suzuki SX4's functional five-seat interior can't compete with the top affordable compact wagons, and it scores near the middle of the group. Nevertheless the SX4 provides a surprisingly upscale cabin for its affordable price point. The Washington Post calls the interior "simple, yet elegant," and big enough "to comfortably seat five people." Check out our Suzuki SX4 Wagon Photo Gallery to see how much legroom is offered for front and rear seats, or read our full Interior Review for details on the SX4's entertainment features and cargo capacity. continue
SX4-Wagon Safety - 8.4 (Very Good)
The 2008 Suzuki SX4 does well in government crash tests, and offers a generous helping of standard safety features to reassure buyers. Our full Safety Review provides more information on the SX4 Wagon's ability to prevent accidents and protect passengers. continue
SX4-Wagon Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Suzuki SX4 Wagon 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). Suzukis come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review for information on Suzuki's awards for quality and low cost of ownership. continue