2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack Kingsland GA

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor

DriverSide Overview
We can say with complete certainty that the latest SX4 variant, the 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack, is one of the best compact cars in the US market. Its combination of a quirky design, spacious interior and competent drive are hard to find in a group that frequently lists air conditioning as an option. We’ve always wished the SX4 had a little more power, because last year’s 143 hp 2.0-liter engine felt a little lacking. The new SportBack trim remedies this by adding a re-tuned 2.0-liter engine to bump power up to 150 hp and receiving two new transmissions to help with fuel consumption and power delivery. European styling cues come from the SX4 Crossover , a five-door guise that we hope to see a lot more of on American roads, and the refreshed interior may not put Mercedes-Benz out of business, but the new gauges and instrument panel look clean and up-to-date. Suzuki seems to be resolved on changing their image by producing cars that are entertaining to drive, at a price point buyers love. Sounds like a good idea to us. 





What's to Like
The space. Within the compact five-seater, all occupants have a good amount of headroom and legroom, a rare commodity in the segment. The addition of another gear to the manual gearbox improves off-the-line speed and makes the SX4 a little more fuel thrifty. You can’t forget about America’s best warranty either.

What's Not to Like
The high seating position won’t be to everyone’s liking, and the flat seats aren’t among the cushiest we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. We’d love the addition of a telescoping steering wheel too.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
In a segment that sees more than its fair share of unimaginative rides, the SX4 Crossover is surprisingly peppy and competent on the road. Despite ditching Suzuki’s all-wheel drive system in favor of a front-wheel drive setup, the SportBack doesn’t feel floaty in corners and understeer is kept mostly at bay. The car has been lowered by a half-inch and an aero package with side skirts and front and rear spoilers have been added. Coupled with the KYB suspension and the extra horsepower, the SX4 actually lives up to its sporty moniker. We’d recommend the new six-speed manual with its crisp, easily findable gearshifts, but the CVT, though a little buzzy, doesn’t fail to competently bring the car up to speed either. Seats don’t support well for more spirited driving, yet you’ll find them comfortable enough for daily commutes and running around town.

Engine and Drivetrain
With a reworked 2.0-liter engine, the SX4 SportBack boosts power to 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. A new six-speed manual or CVT will deliver the extra get-up-and-go to the front wheels only, instead of all four.

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