2012 Suzuki SX4

The 2012 Suzuki SX4 is an affordable, compact available in three body styles, making it one of the most diverse cars of its class. With many options offered, it is easy to find a model to fit your needs.

The Sedan, the SportBack, and the Crossover all offer variations such as a hatchback, manual transmission, and all-wheel drive. The SX4 has gained additional braking power, by providing rear disc brakes, making safety a premium goal.

This simple yet powerful car is fun to drive, gets good safety ratings, and is affordable.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $13,849.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50l) MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 176.8 in. (449 cm) Wheel Base: 98.4 in. (249.9 cm)
Height: 60.8 in. (154.4 cm) Width: 68.1 in. (172.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 2744 lbs (1244 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 2.0L 4 Cylinder DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 150 HP Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:LE FWD MSRP: $15,645; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:LE Popular Pkg FWD CVT MSRP: $17,549; MPG: 25 city / 32 hwy
Option:Sport SE FWD CVT MSRP: $18,349; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy

Engine

The 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine with 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque is one of the largest and strongest engines in the affordable small car category. The engine power is sent to the front wheels by a six-speed manual, or continuously variable transmission (CVT), with slightly less horsepower. In addition to a powerful engine, the 4-wheel, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and electronic stability control with traction control, make driving easy and fun.

Performance

The Suzuki SX4 is capable of surviving through winter driving, with all-wheel drive. The additional stopping advantage offered by rear disc brakes is very effective as well. The SX4 can get 23 mpg in the city, and 33 mpg on the highway with manual transmission option, and 25 mpg city, and 32 mpg highway driving for the continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Exterior

The lines of the SX4 are simple, but it achieves a cohesive look. Color-matched side mirror housing, and door handles, daytime running headlights, and 15-inch steel or alloy wheels, gives the car a premium look.

It may not be exciting, but is attractive, and aerodynamically efficient. The side impact door beams of the body frame are a great safety feature. The exterior colors have expanded, now offering a shimmering new red color.

Interior

The SX4 may lack standard luxury features, but options are available. Air conditioning, compact-disc audio system with auxiliary jack, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls are available in the LE model. Standard features are power doors, windows, locks and mirrors, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and front armrests.

There is an option for USB connectivity and Bluetooth, but this will raise the base price, and is standard on other cars in its class. The 60/40 split, folding, rear seats do offer a great deal of cargo space for this small car. There is 16 cubic feet of space when using the back seats, and 51.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The sedan has 15.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Safety & Reliability

The SX4 comes equipped with electronic stability control and traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution, a tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lights. The eight air bags include dual front, curtain side, and side impact for both front and rear passenger seats. Three-point seat belts, and child-proof rear door locks are also provided.

The Suzuki SX4 comes with a 3 years, or 36,000 miles warranty, with roadside assistance. Suzuki also offers a transferable powertrain warranty of 7 years, or 100,000 miles, which is one of the longest warranties in this class of vehicles. With all-wheel drive, and the addition of rear disc brakes, the SX4 gets good ratings in the safety and reliability category.

Pros & Cons

The SX4 is an affordable, simple, safe, and reliable car to drive for all seasons. It is a fun car to drive, and handles well, making it a very comfortable car for commuting. It has great head room, good cargo space, strong brakes, and is a good value in the affordable, small car category.

If you want exciting looks, a luxurious interior or high fuel economy, you may want to look elsewhere however. The cabin is a bit dated, and lacks quality features, and the CVT is more sluggish to drive.

Competition

Depending on what you are looking for in a car of this category. The 2012 Suzuki SX4 may have better handling and a stronger, more effective braking system than these competitors.

Other makes worth looking at include the Chevrolet Sonic (MSRP $14,200; 26 city / 35 hwy), the Kia Rio (MSRP $13,600; 30 city / 40 hwy), and the Hyundai Accent (MSRP $15,545; 30 city / 40 hwy). All these along with the SX4 are priced reasonably for everyday driving.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“While the 2012 Suzuki SX4 still remains a good value, a number of newer and more enticing compact sedan and hatchback competitors make it hard to recommend.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Suzuki SX4 remains the lowest-priced car with all-wheel drive, and it’s one of the best small-car values for the money.”Car Connection

“Quick, nicely weighted steering and stable cornering make SX4 feel nimble despite moderate body lean in fast turns. Brake-pedal action is firm and progressive on all SX4s. The turning radius is surprisingly (and disappointingly) large for a vehicle with such tidy dimensions.”Consumer Guide

“The SX4 is available as a small sedan or hatchback. The engine drones on the highway and delivers slow acceleration. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Because of their small size, all Suzuki SX4s are easy to maneuver and park. The Sport version of the Sedan and the SportBack offer relatively sporty handling, but these are not tarmac burners.”KBB

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