Suzuki's SX4, which seems to offer a model for every need continues to fill more and more entry level spots. The vehicle itself is based on the SX4 crossover, with the sport being the sedan variety. A mild overhaul was performed in 2010 offering mildly changed styling and a new 2.0 liter engine. Perhaps the most important were the new transmission choices, bringing it up to par with others in the segment and adding a significant perceived boost in performance. The SX4 is based on the philosophy of offering more and charging less. One of the high points of the SX4 has been its cabin. This is one of the roomiest in its class.
The SX4 is available in two trim levels, the higher upping the ante with 17 wheels and a lowered ride height. Just enough to give it a sportier appearance and somewhat sportier driving.
The engine is the same for all models, the 2.0 liter four cylinder, 150 HP engine. The new transmission choices make the most of this engine, giving it better response and better fuel economy.
The Range
Bodystyles: 4-door sedan
Engines: 2.0L I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, CVT
Models: Sedan, Sedan LE, Sedan LE Popular, Sport S, Sport SE, Sport GTS
What's New
For 2010, the SX4 features a new 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine mated to a choice of new transmissions -- a six-speed manual or Suzuki's continuously variable transmission. The SX4 also receives styling tweaks both inside and out, including a redesigned front fascia on the exterior and a revised center stack in the cabin.
Exterior
The SX4 range has been revamped for the 2010 model year with a redesigned front fascia, new grille, and revised rear spoiler. New wheels also give the car more styling flair.
Interior
The interior of the 2010 SX4 also gets tweaked with an all-new backlit instrument cluster, revised center stack with aluminum-look accents and auxiliary input, and height-adjustable driver's seat.
Performance & Handling
With its new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the SX4 gains five percent more power and four more pound-feet of torque for 2010, bumping the horsepower rating to 150 and torque to 140 pound-feet. An all-new continuously variable transmission (CVT) and six-speed manual transmission are also added to the mix for even greater efficiency. The front-drive SX4 is lighter and more nimble to drive than the all-wheel-drive crossover variant.
Safety
Front driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags are standard equipment on all SX4 models. SX4 Sport models come with standard stability control.
EPA Fuel Economy
Sedan, Sedan LE: 23 mpg city/33 mpg highway
Sedan LE Popular: 25 mpg city/32 mpg highway
Sport S (manual): 23 mpg city/32 mpg highway
Sport S (CVT), Sport SE, Sport GTS: 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Improved powertrain options
- Solid interior build quality
- Price is right
You Won't Like
- Unrefined ride
- Lack of upmarket touches
- Bland exterior
Sum Up
A solid compact competitor
If You Like This Vehicle
- Ford Focus
- Honda Civic
- Mazda3
- Nissan Sentra
- Toyota Corolla