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Suzuki SX4 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Suzuki SX4 ranks 11 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki SX4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

With a spacious cabin, nimble handling and a long list of available features, the 2010 Suzuki SX4 is drawing the attention of reviewers. Nonetheless, it doesn’t quite stack up against class leaders for interior comfort, sporty driving or fuel economy.

The 2010 Suzuki SX4 is appreciated by reviewers for its optional All-Wheel Drive system, impressive cargo capacity (in the hatchback), and standard navigation system on higher trim levels. Combine these things with the fact that the SX4 is considered fun to drive, boasts excellent handling and has a low starting price, and it looks like a great choice for consumers.

Still, the SX4 has a few shortcomings. Reviewers aren’t a big fan of the seats in either the front or rear of the car, reporting that they are uncomfortable. The lack of a telescoping steering wheel also makes finding an ideal driving position more difficult for taller drivers. For 2010 the SX4 gets a new engine that has plenty of pep when paired with the new six-speed manual transmission. Still, there are numerous complaints from reviewers about the continuously variable transmission (CVT) option (also new for 2010), which they say slows throttle response.

Those interested in the base SX4 sedan should also have a look at the Kia Forte, which is a favorite among reviewers for offering an impressive array of standard features on the base model. It also boasts an excellent 25/34 mpg fuel economy rating and comfortable seats for only about $300 more than the SX4. The Nissan Versa, the SX4’s platform-mate, offers fewer standard features on the base model but boasts one of the most comfortable rear seats in the class, a higher fuel economy rating of 26/31 mpg, and a base price that is over $3,000 less than the SX4. Finally, those in need of a versatile hatchback should consider the Honda Fit. It’s considered more fun to drive than the SX4, boasts one of the most versatile cargo spaces in the class and offers an exceptional 25/36 mpg fuel economy rating -- all at a price that’s around $1,000 less than an SX4 Crossover model.

The 2010 Suzuki SX4 is available in three basic models -- the sedan, sport and crossover -- each of which have their own trim subcategories. The sedan model comes in three trims including the base, LE and LE Popular. The sport comes in a sedan model that includes the S, SE and GTS trims as well as a hatchback model that comes only in Sportback GTS trim. The crossover model comes with either Front- or All-Wheel Drive and comes in base, Technology and Touring trims. If you can do without the changes to the SX4 for the 2010 model year, you may want to consider buying a 2009 model. You may be able to get a better deal as dealers make way on their lots for the 2010 models.

• "Is the 2010 SX4 SportBack the true Mini-fighter from Suzuki? Not exactly. It would be an everything-small-to-ultra-compact-car-fighter, if there were such a thing. But with its impressive handling, powertrain, fuel economy, standard features list, and estimated $18,000 MSRP, it's poised to ruffle some city car feathers -- including those of the Mini Cooper." -- Motor Trend
• "SX4 is roomy, solid, and offers uncommon class features such as AWD and a navigation system. All models lag most rivals for fuel economy, but pricing is reasonable, which makes this Suzuki a strong pick in this class." -- Consumer Guide
• "Certain buyers may still find the SX4 suits them well, and there are no red flags on the reliability or safety fronts to caution otherwise. But the car has been leapfrogged by its competitors - in gas mileage, interior quality, ride comfort and more. It still has some neat tricks, but for all the compromises, the SX4's charm is wearing thin." -- Cars.com
• "The all-wheel-drive model is perhaps the best buy because it's one of the least-expensive vehicles available offering this level of all-weather capability." -- New Car Test Drive
• "The 2009 Suzuki SX4 Crossover offers active-lifestylers a practical, comfortable and affordable front or all-wheel-drive utility vehicle with impressive looks and loads of features. ... The well-appointed SX4 Crossover has a terrific warranty and merits serious consideration from anyone shopping for either a space-efficient front-drive hatchback, such as the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, or Scion xB, or a true all-wheel-drive crossover utility vehicle, such as the Jeep Compass or Nissan Rogue." -- Kelley Blue Book

SX4 Performance - 7.8 (Good)

While the 2010 SX4 sedan models offer good handling dynamics and decent acceleration, reviewers are more taken with the hatchback options and the Sportback GTS model in particular. CNET says, "Small cars like the SX4 SportBack can be a whole lot of fun, able to zip around quickly and provide thrills at low-to-moderate-speed driving conditions, which is about all you can hope for on public roads. The SX4 SportBack's two-liter four-cylinder engine showed a willingness to go from the start, pulling the car quickly as soon as we put it in drive." Read More

SX4 Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

The SX4 isn’t unpleasant to look at, but it isn’t particularly memorable either. Cars.com is direct about it, saying, "Elements from the headlights to the fenders fit a cohesive styling theme, but that theme seems to be ‘forgettable design.’” Read More

SX4 Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)

The SX4’s cabin offers extra space for people and cargo. "All Suzuki SX4 models offer pleasant cabins with controls that are easy to use and interior materials appropriate for the price," says New Car Test Drive. Nonetheless, for more seat comfort or a longer list of standard features on the base model, there are better options available. Read More

SX4 Safety - 8.3 (Very Good)

The 2010 Suzuki SX4 receives high scores in federal government  crash tests and offers a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment. Read More

SX4 Reliability - NA

The Suzuki SX4's new vehicle warranty is good for three years or 36,000 miles. Read More