Suzuki SX4 adds Navigation
Posted on 25 August 2008, at 10:10 am, by David Goodspeed
Of all the vehicles I drive in a year, one of the biggest surprises still has to be the Suzuki SX4.
For those shoppers who do their homework, Suzuki will be giving many pause as they sift through the new vehicles offered today. SX4 commands attention not only for its warranty and fuel economy, but also for the value it brings to the segment.
For 2008, Suzuki backs the SX4 line with a sedan model built on the same platform as the hatchback. And while it won’t win any rally car competitions (nor should it), the all-new SX4 Sport sedan provides plenty of power and good value for everyday drivers, especially busy urbanites.
Recently, Suzuki announced even greater value for the SX4 lineup – standard navigation system across the Sport and FWD Crossover model lines. Referred to as the Suzuki T.R.I.P. (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play), the fully integrated system utilizes Navteq mapping software and includes a flip-up 4.3-inch touch screen display and Bluetooth hands-free calling technology that can receive and audibly play text messages.
The system comes preloaded with street maps that feature millions of points-of-interest, such as hotels, restaurants, gasoline stations and ATMs, and a dedicated community website will be launched to support the sharing and downloading of user-generated recommendations for destinations and drive routes among Suzuki owners.
How did Suzuki come about naming this new lineup? SX4 stands for (S)port (X)-over for (4) seasons of weather. The four-door sedan will seat four adults comfortably and is powered by a 16-valve DOHC 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 143 horsepower and 136 lb. ft. of torque. Fuel economy is rated a segment-average 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. A five-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, with an optional four-speed automatic upgrade offered.
The i-AWD (standard on the Crossover model) offers three modes of operation: 2WD for max fuel economy on dry pavement; AWD auto mode that automatically senses the need for power distribution to the rear wheels when needed; and AWD lock mode for fulltime 4WD operation in mud or snow under 36 mph.
The new Suzuki Sport sedan operates as a front-driver and features large four-wheel disc brakes with ABS standard and rides on 17-inch wheels and tires riding on sport-tuned suspension. A tire pressure monitoring system is also included on all models. Electronic stability program with traction control is standard on Sport trim upgrades. Six airbags are standard on all SX4 models.
Despite its size, the SX4 does deliver pleasant curb appeal thanks to some assistance from Italian designers, and Suzuki also turned to Europe for some final suspension and handling inspiration. Not “Porsche” by any means but certainly not “plowshare” either.
Inside, you really won’t mistake the Suzuki for an Italian sports car, but designers have been able to offer comfort and convenience at a good value that includes automatic air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, cruise control and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.
Pricing for our 2008 SX4 Sport sedan tester with new T.R.I.P. navigation system starts (and ends) at $16,700, and that 100,000-mile powertrain warranty is fully transferable.
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