It also handles reasonably well considering its height, but you're probably not going to win a lot of slalom course races. Its comfortable ride makes up for any high-speed cornering shortcomings though, a characteristic more important to the majority of buyers. The SX comes with 15-inch alloy wheels mated to P195/55R15 all-season tires - an inch larger in diameter than the base car's P185/65R14 tires.
Like usual in this category the use of low tech rear drum brakes hampers braking feel and effectiveness, especially noticeable after a long drive through the mountains. At least ABS is a standard feature on the top-line SX model I was testing, benefiting panic stopping situations.
The base Aerio already is standard with power windows, an AM/FM/CD audio system and power steering with a tilting column. Added to these is a 6-speaker Clarion AM/FM stereo with cassette and in-dash CD player, air-conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, remote keyless entry and power heated mirrors.
The list of specific SX features is even longer, including fog lamps, chrome exhaust tips, power mirrors, a rear spoiler and body-color exterior parts such as door handles, bumpers and mirrors. Its body-color fender flares and front, rear and side skirts are also distinct to this model. There are no options available over and above the standard SX features.
So there you have it. There's no doubt my friend will purchase another Suzuki due to a positive experience with his Swift, a similar story to others I've heard repeated over and over by loyal Suzuki owners. And that's the kind of positive spin marketing departments can't buy. The Aerio will no doubt continue this admirable legacy.