In addition, the 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels of the JX and JXL have been redesigned. Finally, in Canada the automaker hasn’t deemed fit to include a nav system like it has in the US.
A 2.0-litre, multivalve four-banger is still nestled under the hood. However, the 2010 version’s stable has increased by a few heads. Horsepower has climbed from 143 to 148 for the automatic SX4 and to 150 for the manual versions (now boasting six speeds instead of five). Torque has also gone up, from 136 to 140 ft-lb for the same max rpm of 3,500.
Family oriented
Though improved, the powertrain won’t get the ol’ heart a pumpin’. Although as an eminently family oriented vehicle, should it really?
I’d be satisfied if it accelerated from naught to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds (9.4 according to our results). The thing is, this engine is rather thirsty. At the end of our trial period with the SX4 JLX AWD with automatic transmission (standard on the JLX), we noted an average fuel consumption rating of 11 L / 100 km. That’s 1 litre less than the automatic SX4 JLX AWD tested in 2008. On the other hand, you get the same rating with an automatic 2010 Subaru Forester, which is bigger, heavier and motivated by a larger displacement engine!
The SX4 AWD’s small fuel tank, which bottles 45 litres instead of 50 like the SX4 FWD, limits the operating range and requires more refueling stops.
The new autobox, however, proved quite worthy. Buttery smooth, it contributes to the comfortable ride. What’s more, its steering-wheel paddles allow you to make the most of the engine’s power. In order to limit fuel consumption, the automatic transmission generally keeps the engine speed very low, at around 2,000 rpm at highway speeds. Thus restrained, the engine is perpetually out of breath and responds unconvincingly to throttle input.
This is where the manual mode comes in handy. Tap the paddle and the transmission downshifts a gear or two without undue sharpness, thus increasing rpm. The little herd of ponies is shaken out of its stupor, and passing or avoiding manoeuvres become more acceptable.
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| The 2010 SX4’s engine is a little more powerful, but we’re not talking Thoroughbred material here. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
A 2.0-litre, multivalve four-banger is still nestled under the hood. However, the 2010 version’s stable has increased by a few heads. Horsepower has climbed from 143 to 148 for the automatic SX4 and to 150 for the manual versions (now boasting six speeds instead of five). Torque has also gone up, from 136 to 140 ft-lb for the same max rpm of 3,500.
Family oriented
Though improved, the powertrain won’t get the ol’ heart a pumpin’. Although as an eminently family oriented vehicle, should it really?
I’d be satisfied if it accelerated from naught to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds (9.4 according to our results). The thing is, this engine is rather thirsty. At the end of our trial period with the SX4 JLX AWD with automatic transmission (standard on the JLX), we noted an average fuel consumption rating of 11 L / 100 km. That’s 1 litre less than the automatic SX4 JLX AWD tested in 2008. On the other hand, you get the same rating with an automatic 2010 Subaru Forester, which is bigger, heavier and motivated by a larger displacement engine!
The SX4 AWD’s small fuel tank, which bottles 45 litres instead of 50 like the SX4 FWD, limits the operating range and requires more refueling stops.
The new autobox, however, proved quite worthy. Buttery smooth, it contributes to the comfortable ride. What’s more, its steering-wheel paddles allow you to make the most of the engine’s power. In order to limit fuel consumption, the automatic transmission generally keeps the engine speed very low, at around 2,000 rpm at highway speeds. Thus restrained, the engine is perpetually out of breath and responds unconvincingly to throttle input.
This is where the manual mode comes in handy. Tap the paddle and the transmission downshifts a gear or two without undue sharpness, thus increasing rpm. The little herd of ponies is shaken out of its stupor, and passing or avoiding manoeuvres become more acceptable.
 |
| The SX4’s body, like that of its Italian twin the Fiat Sedici, was designed by Ital Design. Who would’ve thought? (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |