2008 Suzuki SX4 Las Vegas NV

November 3, 2009   By Brian Alexander, Content Editor



2008 Suzuki SX4
DriverSide Overview
We can understand why people shopping for a compact car might look past the 2008 Suzuki SX4 . After all, can a company known mostly for its motorcycles really build a quality entry-level sedan? Well, if the SX4 is anything to go by, then yes, Suzuki can build a decently solid compact sedan. While it isn’t a perfect car, given the competition the SX4 does a lot of things right. A list of long standard features and affordable options means the SX4 won’t break the bank even if you load it up. Also, the spacious interior makes it a good option for tall drivers looking for a compact car. While its dynamics might not deliver the excitement of a Suzuki superbike, it won’t bore you either.





What's to Like
For such a small car, the SX4 has a surprising amount of headroom. It also has an impressive list of standard features, four-star crash rating and a 100,000 mile seven year power train warranty, plus it’s one of the least expensive cars on the market to offer all-wheel drive.

What's Not to Like
Compared to the compact car competition, the SX4 returns sub-par fuel economy. The interior finishes, while not terrible, aren’t up to the standards of other Japanese manufacturers in its segment.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
Most compact sedans felt slightly claustrophobic, but not the SX4. Thanks to a high roofline, even an NBA point guard won’t feel cramped inside. The steering wheel is well placed and, despite no telescoping feature, feels naturally positioned even when the driver’s seat is moved all the way back. The engine feels a little lackluster until it wakes up at 4,000 rpm, after which power delivery is consistent and adequate. The speed-sensitive steering has a small dead spot in the center and likes to quickly snap back to its neutral position when released, but it is light and direct. The SX4’s biggest surprise was the relative lack of road noise at highway speeds.

Engine and Drivetrain
The SX4 is powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 143 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. While it might not sound like anything special, the 2.0-liter unit suits the Suzuki’s economy car character well. The engine drives the front wheels through either the standard five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, which is available as a $1,100 option.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
Perhaps the SX4’s greatest assets are its lengthy standard features list and long-term 100,000-mile warranty. While some of the SX4’s competitors keep items such as 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, tire pressure monitoring system and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes stowed in the “options” column, the SX4 comes standard with all of them. A highly recommended convenience package, which includes cruise control, a leather-wrapped st...

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