The 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport is a versatile compact car on stilts.
Japanese engineers created a curious, distinct, wedge-shape design – low in the front and high in the back — that appears to be height-weight disproportionate, to the point of forcing double-takes.
Coupled with a large Suzuki “S” over the honeycomb mesh grille, a wide track and standard 17-inch alloy wheels with flared fenders, the SX4 buries its bland-looking competition. It’s all intended to appeal to youthful consumers attracted by its bold styling, decent performance attributes and low price tag.
Unlike my colleague’s delusional world (we won’t even mention her by name this week) of $55,000 Mercedes-Benz models for the common folk, this truly is a car for the masses.
The 2008 SX4 Sport is one of the best equipped compact cars in America, with more standard features than cars costing thousands more.
The base SX4 Sport includes six airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, trip computer, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, air conditioning, four-speaker audio system with CD and MP3, an aero body package, and power windows, mirrors and door locks.
Built in Japan, the SX4 Sport features a sophisticated 2.0-liter, four-cylinder DOHC engine — matched to a five-speed manual transmission on my tester. An automatic transmission is available for $1,100 on all models.
The engine delivers strong low-end torque, generating the fun-to-drive feeling commuters, and weekenders, crave. The engine delivers 143 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 23 mpg in the city and 31 down the highway.
There are also two optional packages: Convenience and Touring. The Convenience Package adds cruise control, automatic climate control, heated outside mirrors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls.
My tester came equipped with the Touring Package that adds a six-disc CD changer, upgraded 380-watt audio system with nine speakers (including subwoofer), fog lamps, rear spoiler, Electronic Stability Program with traction control system, and a keyless entry and start system.
I may be getting old and forgetful, but I don’t remember any entry-level cars of my youth that pampered and spoiled to the extent of the SX4. Of course, unlike today’s youth, I also walked a mile each way in the snow to elementary school. Or was it five miles?
Being a junk-in-the-trunk kind of guy, I am happy to note the SX4 Sport provides generous, secure storage within its oversized rear. Whether using the car personally or professionally, owners will enjoy the spacious cargo area that boasts 15 cubic feet of space, offering 20 percent more storage than segment leaders. In addition, there are many discreet storage compartments located throughout the cabin, and all the doors have large pockets and bottle holders for added convenience.
With seating for five (I’d recommend four, max), the SX4 Sport delivers both utility and style. Driver and passenger comfort is excellent due to the surprisingly large cabin proportions. The in-command seating position provides a higher point than the competition, and optimizes visibility as well as ease of entry and egress. There is generous leg room and shoulder room, and class-leading headroom.
Maneuverability on crowded city streets and in parking areas is outstanding.
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