Suzuki SX4 -- a good sport

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The Suzuki SX4 Sport is now on sale. Granted, not many people set off the fireworks when a new Suzuki hits the showrooms (probably not even Suzuki), but there’s a reason or two to be cheerful.

Considering the great motorcycles this company makes, it’s always been vaguely puzzling why Suzuki has under-performed in the car world. That might be about to change, because the SX4 Sport is not only compact, perky and affordable, it’s also a notch or two above previous levels of Suzuki quality, especially where the interior is concerned.

The car has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, good for 143hp and 136lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are five speed manual or four-speed auto. With the auto ’box, the SX4 still gets 23 and 31mpg for city and highway respectively. The suspension is basic stuff: MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at the rear, but the front-drive chassis has been tuned in Europe for a lively motoring experience. And it has ABS-equipped disc brakes at each end.

Inside the cabin is an audio system that can be augmented with an iPod interface, nine speakers (including a subwoofer) and six airbags. All this for a basic MSRP of $14,770 (plus $625 destination and handling). A Convenience package throws in a leather-wrapped steering wheel with in-built audio controls, heated mirrors and automatic climate control for an extra $500. The Touring pack adds an upgraded six-CD audio system, fog lamps, a rear spoiler, and traction control for another $1000 on top of the Convenience price. Automatic transmission is an $1100 option on all models.

The thing is, provided the aftermarket can be bothered to supply go-faster parts, ECU reflashes and the like, the SX4 Sport could become another cult car in the sport compact tuning world. Its low price provides an access point for the young drivers whose interests lie in that direction.

--Colin Ryan