i wasnt terribly enthused when i first caught sight of the SX4. it's dumpy and looks too practical for words, although the chunky styling, funky colour and pert rump does create a pleasant effect to our senses. with the roof-rails, it bears an uncanny, and some might say 'unfortunate', resemblance to the popular Hyundai Matrix though, but this should bode well for matrix-upgraders, since this is still a japanese car.
it's compact and easy to hustle around. the rev-happy engine has decent power on tap for town driving. the auto box is a little too reluctant to kick-down though, regardless of whether you've knocked it down a gear, or merely jabbed the accelerator pedal. the steering feel is a little artificial, though.
at night, the red illumination works a treat and the functions are similar to the 2wd Vitara we last drove. multi-function steering wheel (great for toggling the repeat function for that techno-happy 'butterfly' song) and a multi function trip computer are cool additions, especially with my recent fixation on fuel consumption. (11.7km/L, for those who're interested!)
the upholstery though, has been unflatteringly compared to cheap PVC and the two tone leather treatment with the 'SX4' stitching on white inserts of the front seats is an eyesore, quite a disappointment considering the car's cool exterior aesthetics. i doubt its Fiat counterpart will commit a similar faux paus (the SX4 is a collaboration between Suzuki and Fiat). build quality is good and the cabin feels tightly put together.
the car is cosy with two in front, and the rear leg-room is decent enough in spite of the car's compact dimensions.
the sx4 ain't no sexpot, but driving it around will certainly inject a fizzy dose of pizzazz into your life.
Fast Facts: Suzuki SX4
Engine: 1586cc
Max power: 101bhp at 5600rpm
Max torque: 140Nm at 4000rpm
LxBxH: 4135x1755x1605 mm
wheelbase: 2500mm
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