This uniquely-designed, highly versatile little hatchback proves to be attractive for many reasons other than interesting value.

The SX4 is one of the rare affordable cars to offer all-wheel drive. Shorter than a Jeep Compass, this 5-door model is indeed optionally available with Suzuki’s tri-mode, on-demand Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) system. The driver can select any of the three following modes of power distribution: 2WD (front), 4WD Auto (up to 50 percent of the available torque is sent to the rear wheels) and 4WD Lock (permanent 50/50 split).

A knob mounted on the center console allows you to select whichever mode suits you best depending on road conditions. It’s out of the driver’s sight, so if you don’t turn your eyes away from the road, you’ll have to grope for it.

AWD is among the options available with the JX intermediate model, while it’s standard fare with the top-of-the-line JLX model. Both the base hatchback and the newly-introduced sedan can’t be equipped with this traction-enhancing technology.

Very lightweight, the rear hatch creates a large and pretty convenient opening, especially with the low cargo threshold. On the other hand, designers failed to include lift-up rear seat cushions, so when you fold the 60/40 split seatback, you get a two-tier cargo area instead of a totally flat floor. Loading big items is therefore harder.

Compared to the SX4 Sedan, the trunk of which is not as versatile and offers a much narrower opening, the choice is easy to make. While the sedan is good for running errands, the hatchback is ideal for camping, hauling a new plasma TV or paying a visit to the antique store.

Good driving position
Both 4- and 5-door models, however, offer a high driving position. When you factor in this, the generous greenhouse and the ultra-sloping hood, you enjoy excellent forward visibility. The long A-pillars sometimes come in the way, though — like when you make a sharp turn.

The controls on the dashboard are mainly regrouped in the middle section. These big knobs and switches are easy to spot and manipulate. High up top is a small display for the digital clock and outside temperature gauge. These two prove convenient, although the reddish LCD digits become fairly hard to read in broad daylight.

Also, the steering wheel tilts but does not telescope. Too bad, because driver comfort would have been further improved.

Pleasant lines
The modern looks of the SX4 Hatchback are quite pleasant to the eye. On multiple occasions, innocent onlookers came to me asking for the name of the car that I was driving and that they found so cute. Clearly, the stylists at Ital Design were not lacking inspiration when they penned this Suzuki.

To satisfy spirited drivers, engineers reduced the fifth gear ratio of the standard manual transmission. According to Suzuki, this should provide a greater sense of power. As for models equipped with the optional 4-speed autobox, no modifications have been made.

When all is said and done, the SX4 sprints from 0 to 100 kph in 10 seconds, which is not bad at all for a family-oriented hatchback.

My JLX tester exclusively featured the brand’s SmartPass keyless entry/start system. Initially, this device was only available on 2007 JLX models equipped with Electronic Stability Program. But since ESP now comes standard with this higher-end model, so does SmartPass.

Basically, it uses a transponder to remotely unlock doors. With this “intelligent key” in your pockets, all you have to do is to press a tiny rubber button integrated to the door handle on the driver’s side or the one on the hatch molding. The button is so small, actually, that a fingernail is ideal to press it! Once you’re behind the wheel, the transponder will send a signal to deactivate the engine immobilizer and allow the car to start on its own.

Firm suspension
On the road, the SX4 proves fun to drive thanks to a precise power steering and well-calibrated brakes. A short turning radius also makes this car extremely nimble. The suspension is firm enough to allow rear-seat occupants to thoroughly assess the quality of the pavement. Body roll in corners is limited. What’s more, the SX4 remains stable and does not nosedive upon braking.

The 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine delivers decent performances at best. On the plus side, the power delivery of this 143-hp, 2.0L mill is extremely linear and fluid; you never feel the herd stampede! That may be a good thing considering the car’s family aspirations.

Fuel-thirsty
Reportedly, the changes made to the manual gearbox also allow a 2.5-percent improvement in fuel economy (4.5 percent with AWD models). That’s great news because the SX4 likes to drink quite a bit. During my winter testing session, the AWD SX4 with automatic transmission could not achieve a better result than 12.3 L/100 km (combined city-highway).

With a fuel tank capacity of only 45 liters (five less than FWD models), such fuel consumption means frequent stops at the gas station. At a time when gas prices regularly reach new highs, budget-minded buyers are understandably reluctant to embrace the SX4. That’s a shame when you think about the obvious qualities of this car, namely functionality, value and build quality.

source:auto123.com