2009 Suzuki SX4

The Suzuki SX4 offers a lot of compact car for the money. The SX4 lineup features a four-door sedan and a four-door hatchback. All Suzuki SX4 models are powered by a 143-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available on the hatchback.

All-wheel drive makes the SX4 an excellent choice for drivers who want an inexpensive car with all-weather capability. The all-wheel-drive system has a locking feature that sends 30 percent to 50 percent of the available power to the rear wheels, giving it better traction in snow and on unpaved roads. All-wheel drive is also beneficial in the rain or anytime it's slippery, even on dry pavement in some situations. The hatchback is called the Crossover. The Crossover offers cargo versatility and looks like a cute mini-SUV.

The sedan offers responsive handling and packs worthwhile features into a tidy package. Using front-wheel drive, the sedan achieves 23/31 mpg with the automatic and 22/30 mpg with the manual transmission. For 2009, the biggest news is the inclusion of a navigation system as standard equipment, unusual for this class. The 2009 models get more features than before, including electronic stability control with traction control for the hatchback and a split-folding rear seat as standard equipment on all models. The SX4 Crossover was first launched as a 2007 model; the sedan joined the hatch for 2008.

The Sport sedan features a sport-tuned suspension and wider, lower-profile tires on alloy wheels. We found the Sport offers sharper steering and more nimble handling, though the ride may be stiff for some drivers. All Suzuki SX4 models offer pleasant cabins with controls that are easy to use and interior materials appropriate for the price. The front seats are spacious. The rear seat in the hatchback is roomy. The back seat in the sedan is cramped for tall riders, but it has a large trunk. All models are keenly priced, making them worthy candidates for shoppers looking for small cars that are more than just basic transportation.

The 2009 Suzuki SX4 lineup comes in sedan and Crossover hatchback versions, each with a 143-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available for the hatchback. The SX4 sedan ($13,299) comes with cloth upholstery, tilt steering wheel, anti-lock brakes, P195/65R15 tires on steel wheels, and a five-speed manual transmission. The LE ($14,689) adds air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, and power windows, door locks, and mirrors. The LE is also available with a four-speed automatic ($15,789). The Sport ($15,739) features a sport-tuned suspension with P205/50R17 all-season tires on 17-inch alloy wheels; it's available with the automatic ($16,839).

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