2007 Suzuki SX4

In an attempt to move away from its also-ran role in the Asian car industry, Suzuki has been pushing hard over the past year with ew models, including the Grand Vitara mid-size SUV, the bigger XL7, and the SX4 shown above. The SX4 offers the type of boxy, spacious design that is becoming de rigueur for the small-car segment, but adds all-wheel drive, filling a void left by the many smaller 4X4s that have bulked up. The SX4 is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC in-line four mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. We haven't driven the SX4 yet, but check back closer to the on-sale date this fall to see if the small Suzuki has what it takes to beat the big guys.