Judging by the number of diminutive SX4s we see on the roads here in Quebec, there is no question that Suzuki has caught the attention of the province with its little hatchback number. For 2010, the automaker is introducing a new mid-range, front-wheel-drive variant called the Aero. With the SX4, mid-range means slightly over $22,000, which in my book doesn’t necessarily make it a bargain.
We understand that the car is generously and originally equipped for its class, with such features as keyless entry and 17-inch wheels, but even at $22,195 it faces stiff competition. Just one example is the Ford Fusion S starting at $21,499, and we’re not talking about the same class of car at all, so the SX4 isn’t cheap.
Once you’ve digested this financial drawback, you can’t help but be charmed by the SX4’s adorable mug, especially in hatchback form. Its format makes it ideal for nearly everyone. Compact, it nimbly zips everywhere around town and offers enough space to comfortably accommodate a small family.
Ok, so the comfort part doesn’t necessarily come from the seats, all in all rather hard. And the little family shouldn’t include too many tall drinks of water either, as the rear seats can provoke some heated arguments. The same applies for baggage: the 203-litre trunk will require some decision-making regarding who brings how many bags.
One of the numerous practical aspects of the car’s layout is the nearly vertical position of the seats. They offer great visibility, as you find yourself sitting slightly above the other cars on the road. The cabin is welcoming with its two mock aluminum vertical stripes livening up the otherwise all-black decor.
The steering wheel is dotted with controls, making driving that much easier: you don’t have to let go of the wheel any more to make simple adjustments to the radio, for instance. Adding to your driving enjoyment is the small size of the steering wheel and its good grip. In fact, it’s nearly the size of a go-kart’s! Though its precision definitely increases your fun behind the wheel, if it were just slightly more like a Volkswagen steering wheel then you’d really be talking.
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| Judging by the number of diminutive SX4s we see on the roads here in Quebec, there is no question that Suzuki has caught the attention of the province with its little hatchback number. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
We understand that the car is generously and originally equipped for its class, with such features as keyless entry and 17-inch wheels, but even at $22,195 it faces stiff competition. Just one example is the Ford Fusion S starting at $21,499, and we’re not talking about the same class of car at all, so the SX4 isn’t cheap.
Once you’ve digested this financial drawback, you can’t help but be charmed by the SX4’s adorable mug, especially in hatchback form. Its format makes it ideal for nearly everyone. Compact, it nimbly zips everywhere around town and offers enough space to comfortably accommodate a small family.
Ok, so the comfort part doesn’t necessarily come from the seats, all in all rather hard. And the little family shouldn’t include too many tall drinks of water either, as the rear seats can provoke some heated arguments. The same applies for baggage: the 203-litre trunk will require some decision-making regarding who brings how many bags.
One of the numerous practical aspects of the car’s layout is the nearly vertical position of the seats. They offer great visibility, as you find yourself sitting slightly above the other cars on the road. The cabin is welcoming with its two mock aluminum vertical stripes livening up the otherwise all-black decor.
The steering wheel is dotted with controls, making driving that much easier: you don’t have to let go of the wheel any more to make simple adjustments to the radio, for instance. Adding to your driving enjoyment is the small size of the steering wheel and its good grip. In fact, it’s nearly the size of a go-kart’s! Though its precision definitely increases your fun behind the wheel, if it were just slightly more like a Volkswagen steering wheel then you’d really be talking.
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| The steering wheel is dotted with controls, making driving that much easier. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |