8th Place: Suzuki SX4

Overview:

The SX4 replaces Suzuki's Aerio, another tall compact car with a surprisingly nice interior and mediocre gas mileage and a stiff, noisy ride. Yet in some ways, it is a step backward. The Aerio had much more pep, and its interior was even nicer and more spacious. The SX4 is more nimble than the Aerio, but it isn't a the sports car that Suzuki suggests by trying to call the SX4 sedans the "SX4 Sport." A relatively low price and decent driving enjoyment make it a possible choice for fun-seekers on a budget, but tight rear seating, mediocre acceleration and fuel economy, and the stiff, noisy ride limit its mainstream appeal.  

Driving the SX4:

The SX4 has a stiff ride. It slams over bumps and is jittery even on smooth pavement. It's fairly agile, and the sharp steering makes it moderately fun to drive in cornering, but it doesn't feel particularly sporty. The engine also lacks power, particularly at highway speeds, and drones under acceleration. Wind and road noise is also excessive. Gas mileage is mediocre at best, despite the SX4's lack of power.

Inside the SX4:

The SX4 has high, well-shaped front seats with abundant head space, though there could be more legroom. The rear is also mounted high and offers good foot space, but there is little legroom. There should also be more head clearance, considering the SX4's high roof. (The old Aerio suffered from the same problem.) The interior is attractive and well-assembled, but some plastics feel cheap. Front-seat entry/exit is easy, but like many in this class, the lack of rear seat space adds complication to rear seat access. Drivers sit comfortably enough despite the lack of leg space, and have good visibility, despite  a design quirk that separates the doorframe from the lower A-pillar. The SX4's trunk is one of the roomiest in this group, but it is the only in which the rear seat doesn't fold to expand the trunk's volume.

SX4 pricing:

The SX4 is well-priced by this group's standards, coming in well-equipped at $15,440. At that price, it includes the group's expected features plus an automatic climate control system and large alloy wheels.

Conclusion:

The SX4 is anything but well-rounded, but if you find appeal in its strong points, it can be worth a look at its relatively low price. Just be well aware of its flaws compared to many of the other cars if you are considering one.

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