Jason Fogelson, About.com's Guide to SUVs, just spent a week driving the subcompact Suzuki SX4 Sport. Here's what he thought:
I'm not the car guy, as you know -- my regular beat is SUVs. But I just spent a week in the very enjoyable 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport sedan, and I had to talk with you car folk about it.
Aaron gave the 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport a three-star rating when he drove it earlier this year. I'd add at least a half a star to that assessment, especially with the manual five-speed transmission. It has a great clutch, quick, short precise throws and delivers performance way beyond what I expected from 143 hp. I got just over 28 mpg during my week with the Suzuki, which is not as good as some of its competitors could deliver. But the SX4 delivers way more driving excitement than most of the competition at this price level, so I forgave its thirst.
Could I live with this economy sedan? Absolutely. I like the price, the level of standard equipment, and the overall fit and finish. I really like the drive. A few quirks bugged me -- no auxiliary audio input without a special kit; slightly flimsy construction on the center console armrest; no trunk release on the key fob; some harshness over big bumps. But these are minor complaints that I could live with, or even fix if I chose to.
Overall, a car to be considered if you're looking for an entry-level economy sedan that doesn't sacrifice fun for frugality. -- Jason Fogelson
You can read my 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport test drive here. Want more cross-pollination? I recently test drove the 2009 Honda Pilot for Jason's site. -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Aaron Gold
I like this car! I like the price, it’s utility(4×4), it versatility as a daily commuter/family hauler and I really like its warranty. I like it so much that I’ve recommended it to my brother up in Boston. I’ll be reporting back on his experiences with the day to day battles on I-95 and its beltways up there in snow country. I’ve got a feeling that it’ll be a big hit.
That was the exact model Princess Di was in when she was killed
Er… she wasn’t, but that’s OK, I get the SX4 Sport mixed up with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class all the time. (Not.)
That’s because they both have an “S” in their names. That really messes me up too.