Test drive: 2005 Suzuki Aerio

2005 Suzuki Aerio

Suzuki has upgraded the Aerio for 2005, with particular attention paid to the interior. The Aerio is very well-equipped even in its base version, while the 2.3 liter engine now delivers 155 hp. With that kind of power plus an attractive interior, this compact economy sedan no longer feels like, well, an economy sedan. MSRP for the Suzuki Aerio "S" is $13,449. Our test car, with automatic, lists at $14,349. A 5-door Suzuki Aerio SX hatchback is also available, starting at $15,449.

First Glance

With its slab sides and "tall car" silhouette, the Aerio will never qualify as a beauty queen. It could, however, win an award for common sense; not that common sense ever sold cars, otherwise we'd all be driving around in diesel-powered Golfs. Nevertheless it's easy to be lured by a vehicle that lets you slide in and out of the seats without a follow-up visit to the chiropracter.

Older folk and people with quirky backs of all ages will love the Aerio for that alone.

Then there's the surprise you get when you press your right foot down, for the Aerio, which looks anything but racy, takes off like the proverbial scalded cat. Sitting inside, amazed by the spaciousness yet still unwilling to acknowledge the Aerio might have even a hint of sportiness in its genes, suddenly you're telling yourself common sense might be fun after all.

During my time with the Aerio I had occasion to haul two friends plus a mountain of luggage (will the Satoks ever learn to travel light?) to the docks for an Alaska cruise ship voyage. They were skeptical about the trunk until all that stuff disappeared into it, then lavish in their praise for the comfort and ride. Diana Satok, a former fashion designer, even liked the Aerio's styling.

In the Driver's Seat

Okay, I'm one of those older folk so I've come to appreciate cars that allow easy access and I think many other drivers do, too. And although I'm usually behind the wheel I'm forced to climb into the rear to take photos, which is good because we test drivers often forget what it's like back there.

If I seem to be making a special point of this where the Aerio is concerned it's because access and interior roominess are the Aerio's primary advantages. I've tested some really big automobiles that seem impressive when the measurements are added up but when it comes to real life, they don't measure up. If these things matter to you, the Aerio is worthy of serious consideration.

There's no shortage of elbow room, either, and you could wear a top hat if that's your style. Kneeroom in the rear, with the front seats pushed well back, is a little tight but there's plenty of space for feet under those seats, consequently passengers won't feel cramped. An interior upgrade has led to a classy-looking instrument panel, though inexpensive plastic parts play a role in achieving that look. A tilt wheel with integrated audio controls is standard, as is automatic climate control and power locks, windows, and mirrors.

On the Road

All the above might seem irrelevant if the Suzuki Aerio drove like a slug but in fact it moves like a hungry shark. And that's something you don't expect in an unpretentious economy car. A mere touch of the accelerator is enough to make the Aerio leap off the mark, to the point where extra care is required. Nor does the performance diminish when passing on the expressway or climbing a hilly road.

Our test vehicle was fitted with an optional 4-speed automatic but after a few miles the possibility that a manual transmission might have been preferable never entered my mind. And as I learned with the Satoks and their luggage, loading up with passengers doesn't cause the Aerio to bog down. Remarkable when you realise the EPA rates it at 25 mpg city/ 31 mpg highway. Identical figures are listed for the 5-speed manual, in case you're wondering.

The secret is Suzuki's 16-valve, double-overhead-cam, 2.3 liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 155 hp and 152 ft-lbs of torque at a handy 3000 rpm. It does tend to be audible, though. A fully-independent suspension balances ride (a bit choppy on bumps but otherwise okay) with roadholding (good once you get over the high seating position). Steering's a tad heavy but precision compensates.

Journey's End

Perhaps you think I've prattled on too long when lauding the Aerio's accessibility and roominess. And perhaps that would be the case if there was nothing else good about the car, especially when style enters the equation. But toss performance into the mix and suddenly every word of praise is meaningful, for the Aerio, to my astonishment, is a fun drive.

"Would I buy this car?" is the question we journalists often ask ourselves. At the start of my two-week drive I might have answered "no" because in spite of being a disciple for common sense autos vs. "look at me" styling, the Aerio's pug nose and height/length ratio turned me off.

(Yes... I should know better than to be influenced by perceptions of image. I could drive up in a new Bentley and those lovely young ladies wouldn't listen to my offer of a week in Monaco for the '06 Grand Prix. Wait 'til they hear about my Italian-designed cruiser moored stern-first to the circuit!)

Back in the reality of Sidney, BC, I changed my mind. The spacious Aerio was not only easy to live with, it was a delight on my favorite winding roads. Yes, I would buy this car. With alloy wheels and an aftermarket sunroof the Aerio is all the car I, and many like me, really need.