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The new-for-2007 SX-4
could be considered the subcompact equivalent to a Subaru Outback: a
conventional vehicle with standard all-wheel-drive that pretends to be more
like an SUV. That is not to diminish the value of the SX-4’s all-wheel-drive,
it is the cheapest vehicle sold in the United States with that feature and the
only vehicle in this group to offer it. The SX-4 also offers good interior
quality and fairly agile handling. But it is not a complete package. The
all-wheel-drive system’s weight takes a serious toll on acceleration and gas
mileage, the car rides stiffly and noisily, and there isn’t much rear seat or
cargo space. Also, the standard all-wheel-drive adds to the SX-4’s cost
compared to other subcompacts. Among inexpensive and relatively fuel-efficient
all-weather vehicles, it’s a strong choice, but if you don’t need
all-wheel-drive, don’t bother with it.
The SX-4 has a steady,
controlled ride on smooth pavement that doesn’t cope well with bumps large or
small. The suspension is obviously tuned more towards the car’s handling, but
although it handles fairly nimbly, the steering lacks the sharpness that would
make it truly fun to drive. The engine is noisy but not entirely unpleasant
during acceleration, but its loud drone at highway cruising speeds is not a
desirable traveling companion. Road noise is also excessive. As noted, the
SX-4 is not a quick car; it is neither particularly peppy at low speeds nor
adept at higher-speed merging and passing. Gas mileage is quite low for such a
small car, no doubt largely due to the all-wheel-drive.
Inside, the SX-4’s front
seats are comfortable and high-mounted and offer plenty of head space, but
taller drivers will want more leg space. The rear seat is small as well, and
the rear seat isn’t as well-designed as the Chevrolet Aveo’s to maintain
comfort for two adult passengers.
 The interior is
impressive for a subcompact even considering its price, with good materials
quality and well-fitting panels. 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. There is almost no cargo space behind the rear seat. The rear
seat either folds to make an angled surface that is several inches away from
flush with the cargo floor, or tumbles forward to open up a flat but smaller
floor space.
The SX-4 reviewed here
came in at $16,794. As the car just went on sale into a strong market for
small cars, that is within $100 of the sticker price, an aspect of the car
that is likely to change over the next few months. But even then it will most
likely be appreciably higher than its front-wheel-drive competitors, even
considering its good equipment levels.
Overall, if you want
all-wheel-drive, the SX-4 is a relatively inexpensive way to acquire it. Also,
or an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it gets good gas mileage. But if the
front-wheel-drive offered in this vehicle’s competitors is sufficient, then
there is no reason to consider it. Don’t pay extra and sacrifice acceleration
and gas mileage for a system you don’t need, and don’t put up with the
vehicle’s other shortcomings if you don’t need it.
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