The 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover occupies a very specific niche among mini SUV crossovers. It is a more rugged version of the SX4 hatchback, an entry-level model for Suzuki, which has mostly been known for its bikes than its cars. It is a small five-door crossover that is the same dimensions as the SX4 hatchback, which makes it a very versatile vehicle. The SX4 played a big role in making Suzuki a stronger player in the four-wheeler market. It is a competent, low-cost, and nicely made small car. The SX4 Crossover offers the same things too. It offers comfort as well as sportiness in a single package that is easy on the pocket. After a few changes over the years, the 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover remains a great choice as a low-budget all-wheel drive crossover for family and fun.
New For 2013
The Crossover and SportBack models receive a subtly revised front fascia with more prominent vertical lines. With the dropping of the Technology trim level, the SportBack is now available only one way. The Crossover gets a new hue (plasma yellow), new aluminum wheels, and an available TouchFree Smart Key.
Exterior
The 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover is very similar to the SX4 Sport sedan from the front end onwards till the center roof pillar. Both of them share the same creased bodywork, but the Crossover gets its distinctive roof rack while the Sport sedan gets a cleaner look without it. Another distinguishing factor about the Crossover is that it has a higher ride height and more ground clearance than the Sport and Sportback models. The vehicle is available with 16-inch or 17-inch wheels, along with standard features like power locks, side mirrors, and windows. A body kit is available as an option. It is available in base and Premium trim levels. The base model is similar to the SX4 LE sedan trim, with 16-inch wheels, cargo cover, remote keyless entry, and roof rails. The Premium trim adds more features to the previous trim, like alloy wheels.
Interior & Cargo
The tall design of the 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover means that headroom is not a problem for the front or rear seats in the vehicle. However, the outdated style of the cabin and the low-grade materials used inside are problems. While its competition has moved forward, the SX4 Crossover, along with all other versions of the SX4, are stuck with pretty much the same interior that they started out with. There have, of course, been additions and small changes over the years, but the design is still old and unchanged. The navigation system is hardly a competition when compared to the ones used in other crossovers; the screen is small and the system is not well-thought, but the interface does provide some useful information in real-time, like traffic updates. Moreover, the instruments are easy to read and the controls on the dash are laid out for easy operation and access.
The tall roofline of the 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover does add to headroom, but the height of the driver’s seat may be a little uncomfortable for some people. The steering wheel does not have any telescoping column either, making it difficult for some drivers to adjust their seat to a comfortable position. On a positive note, the rear seats are comfortable and get a 60/40 split configuration. Cargo space is a big plus for the 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover too. With the rear seatback folded down flat, the vehicle offers a good 54 cubic feet of space. The interior of the 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover comes with standard features like power door locks and windows, stereo system, and air condition. Optional features include leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated front seats.
Safety
The 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover is fitted with a total of eight airbags as standard, including side airbags for the front and rear seats, and side curtain airbags for outboard passengers. Stability control, anti-lock brakes, child proof rear door locks, daytime running lights, side impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system, and electronic brake distribution system are standard features.
Driving Experience
The 2013 Suzuki SX4 Crossover has a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. It gets a six-speed, manual transmission as standard and a continuously variable transmission or CVT as an option, along with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is around 22/30 mpg city/highway with the manual transmission and 23/29 mpg city/highway with the CVT. For a crossover vehicle, these figures are above average. The 150 horsepower engine is also great, but only on paper. The heavy curb weight of the vehicle makes it difficult for the engine to deliver enough of a punch, so acceleration would most likely be slow. The suspension is much firmer than the one in SX4 sedans and hatchbacks, which allows for better handling and drive. However, the ride quality is harsher than that of the SX4 sedan because of this and the steering feels a little numb too, which takes away some of the fun of driving this crossover. Another big problem is the small fuel tank of the vehicle, which necessitates more frequent refueling than another crossover that offers the same fuel economy.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Suzuki SX4-Crossover
- Ford Fiesta
- Honda Fit
- Nissan Versa
- Scion xD