Suzuki SX4 First Drive

Suzuki has just launched their new SX4 line up. Only a keen eye could spot the new from the old, as the exterior changes are limited to the front grille and alloy wheels. Under the bonnet it’s a different story with a more powerful 2.0 engine that delivers better fuel efficiency. The other good news for buyers is that all models have ESP as standard.

Model Range

The SX4 range is a little confusing. You have a choice of 2 wheel drive or 4 wheel drive in a hatch or a 2 wheel drive sedan. The interior is very similar between the sedan and hatch, with the dash and instrument cluster being identical in all models. Where you will notice are big difference is in the boot space.

The hatch space is not very generous while the sedan space is enormous-515 litres. The other major difference is that the hatch has a higher ground clearance than the sedan (for off roading) and gives you an elevated driving position.

Safety

All models have as standard ABS, ESP, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist and Traction Control. 6 airbags are standard on all models except the entry level hatches. These models only have front passenger and driver airbags. This is obviously to give Suzuki a lower start price to advertise. While not having side and curtain airbags does compromise passenger safety in the event of an accident, Suzuki management defended their decision by saying that they expect to sell more of the higher spec models. This price leading strategy is not that uncommon though, particularly in this highly competitive small car segment.

The Drive

Suzuki are so confident about the SX4 hatch’s all wheel drive capability that they let the journalists loose on the slippery gravel roads around Yarra Glen. Suzuki’s rally pedigree can be felt in the all wheel drive models as the cars gripped to the dirt and rocks as we manoeuvred our way through tight corners and reasonably steep inclines. The manual was the most fun in this type of driving, but around the city I’d go for the auto as it delivers a smooth responsive drive with the CVT engine.

SX4 Models and Pricing

Hatch

SX4 2WD manual $20,490

SX4 2WD auto $22,490

SX4 S 2WD manual $23,490

SX4 S 2WD auto $25,490

SX4 AWD manual $23,490

SX4 AWD auto $25,490

SX4 S AWD manual $25,690

SX4 S AWD auto $27,690

Sedan

SX4 S manual $23,990

SX4 S auto $25,990

The SX4 is now on sale in dealerships. Click here to find out your local dealer.