2007 Suzuki SX4: First Impressions

An Italian beauty?

Those who know me also know my interest for Italian cars. For this first test conducted on behalf of Auto123.com, I was expecting anything except an Italian. As a matter of fact, it's Suzuki we're talking about,

(Photo: Suzuki)

particularly their brand-new model, the Suzuki SX4. That's S for sport, X for X-over (or crossover), and 4 for four seasons. Based on a lengthened Suzuki Swift platform, the SX4 boasts the size of a compact and the height of a minivan. Four doors, a hatch and fold-down seats confirm its practical family car mission, while its all-wheel drive system draws it close to a 4x4.

As for the Italian connection, know that the SX4 was developed with the collaboration of Italian manufacturer Fiat and penned by Ital Design, the house founded by Giugiaro. In addition, the European version of this Suzuki is built in Hungary, the same plant that assembles the Fiat Seidici (16 in Italian). Saying that it resembles the lines of the Fiat Grande Punto wouldn't be a lie. At first glance, we're seduced by the curves and sympathetic look that resolutely pulls us away from the tortured lines of the Aerio.

First contact
The eyes being seduced, let's check out the other senses. Being perched higher than normal, the SX4 provides an easy access, and the seat cushions are virtually at posterior-height. As for the raised roof, it

(Photo: Alain Raymond, Auto123.com)

provides occupants with considerable headroom. In short, it offers a straight-up seating position that Toyota Yaris, smart fortwo and other "vertical" car owners are used to. This configuration is the reason why such short cars are so spacious. Same thing in back, which provides an appreciable amount of space for passengers, and cargo volume can be greatly increased by folding down one or both rear seatbacks as well as the seat cushion.

In front, if the steering wheel is height-adjustable, the seats aren't, which is a handicap for certain tall or short drivers. However, comfort is clearly suitable, as is lateral support while cornering. The low beltline (compared to the one on the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe), the presence of small, lateral triangular windows in front as well as the large rakish windshield allows a lot of sunlight in the cabin. To this positive note, we can add a very large factor: its quiet operation. Wind and engine noise are very low, and you don't have to speak louder to engage in a conversation or listen to the radio at 120 km/h.

Powertrain
Motivated by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with double overhead cams and 16 valves, the Suzuki SX4 offers 143 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 136 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM. The Japanese-built engine is coupled to a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, and can be accompanied by an intelligent all-wheel drive system that works in three separate modes and

(Photo: Suzuki)

activated by a console-mounted switch. In 2WD mode, the SX4 drives its front wheels, which helps save fuel. In AUTO mode, the transmission automatically distributes torque over the four wheels, which can send from 0 to 50% of torque to the rear, depending on available traction. Finally, in LOCK mode, the rear differential partially locks up, transmitting between 30 and 50% of torque towards the rear wheels. The LOCK mode deactivates itself automatically at speeds over 60 km/h.

This system, unique in its vehicle category, provides the Suzuki SX4 with a practicality that perfectly fits the mission of a four-season vehicle, a designation that must not be confused with a veritable four-wheel drive 4x4. Let's point out that for the Canadian market, the Suzuki will be available in three versions: the front-drive SX4, the JX with optional all-wheel drive, and the JLX with AWD as standard equipment.