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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Suzuki SX4

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Suzuki SX4

Overview

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2009 Suzuki SX4 Review

By KBB.com Editors

Best known in America for its small, rugged SUVs, Suzuki is steadily cultivating a new image, one that centers around small, fuel efficient cars. Leading the charge is the 2009 SX4 Sedan, which arrives in both base guise and in a well-appointed Sport trim. Like the SX4 crossover, this four-door sedan shares basic chassis and mechanical bits with the Suzuki Swift, a well-respected player in European and Asian markets. Despite the SX4 nomenclature originated by its all-wheel-drive cousin, the Sedan is strictly front-drive – at least for now. It's also nearly 15 inches longer than the hatchback version, most of that stretch to accommodate its formal trunk. A step-up replacement for the old Aerio, the SX4 Sedan gives Suzuki an affordable compact entry that's far more youthful and fun-to-drive than either its existing Forenza or Reno.

You'll Like This Car If...

Those with slight nonconformist leanings who need a practical daily transporter but also want a serious dose of driving fun – and demand it all at an attractive price – will be impressed with the attributes of the 2009 Suzuki SX4.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Drivers whose tastes run more towards hard-line performance – particularly with a Teutonic flavor – or who prefer more aggressive styling might be better off considering something slightly pricier, like a Honda Civic Si, MAZDA3 or VW Jetta 2.5/GLI.

What's New for 2009

The 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sport receives a built-in Garmin navigation unit as standard equipment, a first for a car in this price range. Also new is a lower-priced base Sedan and additional content added to the Sport's Touring package.

Driving the SX4

Driving Impressions Although it still ranks higher in practicality than in pure exhilaration, the SX4 Sport is a nicely balanced package with dynamic character that goes well beyond the original SX4 crossover....

With less weight to move and only two wheels to drive, the engine shows even greater enthusiasm here, but acceleration is definitely more spirited when it's paired with the standard manual gearbox. The biggest difference, however, is in the suspension tuning, which is commendably crisp without being unduly harsh. While the SX4's basic MacPherson strut and torsion beam design carries over, the Sport's more rigid body structure, lower ride height, upgraded shock absorbers and low-profile Dunlop tires on 17-inch alloy wheels (the Crossover rides on 16-inchers) impart an entirely different temperament to the vehicle. Toss in communicative power steering and capable four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and the SX4 Sport reacts confidently to driver inputs, even without the optional traction and stability controls.

Favorite Features

Responsive Handling
Crisp suspension tuning coupled with decently grippy low-profile tires on the largest wheels in the segment help the SX4 Sport live up to its name when the roads get twisty.

Outstanding Visibility
The SX4's large glass area complemented by front quarter windows and oversize outside mirrors provides the driver with exceptionally good front, side and rear sightlines.

2009 Suzuki SX4 Details

Interior

Nicely finished and appointed, the SX4's cabin offers generous passenger space in both front and rear quarters. Much is shared with the SX4 crossover, including the dash and door panels, intuitively-positioned switchgear and an abundance of hard plastic surfaces. One key difference: The Sport trim's front bucket seats feature more prominent bolstering and merit high marks for both lateral support and long-range comfort. The SX4's aft quarters possess sufficient head and leg room for two average-sized adults, but three-across occupancy is definitely a kids-only proposition. A new split folding rear seat replacing last year's fixed seatback allows access to the 15.0 cubic feet of trunk capacity.

Exterior

Suzuki claims the SX4's front-end was inspired by a traditional Japanese Kabuki mask but, beyond a few bolder creases in its unique soft fascia and revamped grille openings, the headlights, hood and fenders are all identical to the SX4 crossover. The Sedan has an arched roofline and relatively large glass area that help create a roomier cabin and afford exceptional outward visibility. Pronounced fender flares accentuate the Sport's standard body kit (front and rear valence panel extensions and tasteful side sills), while additional visual and functional enhancement is provided by largest-in-class 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 205/50 all-season tires.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

An economical daily commuter with legitimate enthusiast overtones, the 2009 Suzuki SX4 LE Sedan's extensive creature-comforts roster starts with air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, tilt steering column and front, front-side and side-curtain airbags. The Sport trim adds GPS navigation, the Aero package, keyless entry and 17-inch wheels. Both trims share the same mechanical highlights including four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, a 143-horsepower engine and a five-speed manual transmission. The warranty is equally noteworthy. Basic bumper-to-bumper numbers are an industry-average three years/36,000 miles, but Suzuki also includes a free loaner car and covers pricy powertrain elements with a seven-year/100,000-mile zero-deductible blanket that's fully transferable.

Optional Equipment

The SX4 Sport offers two key upgrade groups that can be added singly or in combination. The Technology Package brings fog lamps, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio, and cruise control buttons and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity. The Touring Package adds traction and stability controls, automatic climate controls, heated side mirrors, Smart Pass keyless remote locking and starting, and a nine-speaker upgraded audio system with six-disc CD changer. Prime single options include a four-speed automatic transmission, integrated iPod adapter and dealer-installed XM Satellite Radio.

Under the Hood

All 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sedans share the same 2.0-liter DOHC all-aluminum in-line four-cylinder used in the SX4 crossover. Here, too, the engine makes a solid 143 horsepower and 136 pound-feet of torque and is fitted with a variable-runner intake manifold that helps broaden both those output curves. Because of the more performance-oriented gear and axle ratios used in cars equipped with the standard five-speed manual transmission, an SX4 Sport with the optional four-speed automatic actually earns slightly better EPA fuel economy numbers. In either case, the SX4 Sport's front-drive-only configuration helps trim well over 100 pounds off its curb weight compared to the crossover, a factor that significantly improves acceleration.

2.0-liter in-line 4
143 horsepower @ 5800 rpm
136 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/29 (manual), 22/30 (automatic), 22/30 (base, LE, manual), 23/31 (base, LE, automatic)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Suzuki SX4 vehicles for sale near you.

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2009 Suzuki SX4 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.4

Out of 10

Based on 230 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.7/10

Quality

8.5/10
Reliability

8.9/10

Performance

8.4/10
Comfort

8.3/10

Styling

8.6/10

Easy Driving, Love my Suzuki!

By Arpeija (LA) on Friday, July 26, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 64,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Great price, great sound system, fun to drive!"

Cons: "Wish mine had cruise control"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This is my first new car, bought straight off the lot when it was just a baby with 1140 miles. Has given me no trouble, love being able to zip in and out of traffic and easily get into any open parking spot. See your available miles, instant mpg, and average mpg (mine is at 27.0 mpg). Holding its value well! Great sound system too! XM ready, MP3 capability."

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Rugged little car!!

By Cliffy (ME) on Wednesday, July 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Seperate2 wheel and 4 wheel abilities,26 mpg city,"

Cons: "alittle small for full figured people"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owened the SX4 since new , This well built little car WILL GO ANYWHERE (Even 4x4 trails ) Just throw a set of jeep rims with some decent tires on it and go muddin ,I regularly follow my friends when they go 4 wheelin(i did install frnt$rear skid plates and a 2 inch lift )Put some 215 75 grabbers and WOW this in 4x4 lock is unstopable LOVE the car!! great for maine winters and mud season 26 an 32 mpg handles solid on the road, good rigid suspension , BUT do not try to fit 5 people in 4's good"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Rugged little car!!

By Cliffy (ME) on Wednesday, July 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Seperate2 wheel and 4 wheel abilities,26 mpg city,"

Cons: "alittle small for full figured people"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

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Rugged little car!!

By Cliffy (ME) on Wednesday, July 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Seperate2 wheel and 4 wheel abilities,26 mpg city,"

Cons: "alittle small for full figured people"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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I like IT much

By Krist_eros (NY) on Sunday, June 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 115,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "good value, fun to drive"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"this SX4 4x4 hatchback is my wife's car. I, change the oil, that is all I do. I like the ingress egress for a heavy fellow. Every time I have the opportunity, I drive it...it is delightful driving it-stable maneuverable. My wife says it holds the snow good. Too bad Suzuki cars do not sell here any more."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Funky cool 4x4 hatch!

By tishpit (FL) on Monday, June 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 8/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Fun drive, great 4x4 system, unique looks!"

Cons: "A-pillar blind spot, small cargo room"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"It is a rarity to find a car like the SX4 anymore. I have had quite a few Suzuki cars and sad to see 'Zuki auto leave the U.S. My other is a Metro and love it! Have had Tracker, Sidekick, 3 Metro's and now the SX4. This 4x4 allows you to shift in and out of 4WD... rare among these horrid AWD cars that grab control away from the driver. The SX4 handles like a sporty car (reminds me of my Mazdas!), rides firm and comfortable on long drives, noise level is typical of a small hatch, it is simple and straight forward. Nothing flashy... no computerized touchscreen Bluetooth remote starting here folks. Just a fun, reliable, mountain goat in disguise! The bad points: seats are hard, HATE the wide A-pillar that blocks some vision, small cargo room with rear seat that no longer flips forward as in previous year SX4's (w'as up wit' dat?). Mileage is a respectable 26 MPG mixed driving with a/c going on level pavement. Off-road it goes nicely and looking to put a lift kit on it with some AT tires. Then will have a mountain goat EXTRAORDINAIRE! Worried about available parts and service, but so far, very reliable and just too darn good a car to give up. NOTE: need a spare key and cannot get one for a Suzuki? Use the key for a Mazda... same ignition system!!!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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See all 230 reviews