Running in i-AWD I tackled my favorite corners as fast as I could in my (gulp) Subaru WRX.Īnd the hits keep happening. Even better, the SX4’s rack and pinion steering is a revelation the tiniest tiller inputs deliver an instant change of direction. Surprisingly, body roll and grip are never an issue. The base model’s blessed with fat 205 tires (the same size as a BMW 328i’s hoops) and a smartly-tuned chassis the Sport version gains stability control (unique to this class). If you get stuck in sand (posing for the requisite PR lifestyle surfer dude pictures), you can switch to full-time four wheel-drive and lock up the transfer case for an even split.Īnd if you have to split in a hurry, the SX4 is a corner carver par excellence. Should either of the fronts lose purchase, up to 50% of the power is sent to the back wheels. In this mode, 95% of the SX4’s torque is routed to the front wheels. Flip a switch near the handbrake and i-AWD kicks in. For daily duty, the SX4 is a front-driver. ![]() The SX4’s on-demand AWD system is a particularly pukka party trick, reminiscent of Subarus of yore. ![]() Such modest money buys gadgets and gizmos aplenty: AC, six-disc in dash CD, daytime running lights, intermittent wipers, rear wiper, power locks with remote entry, power windows with driver auto-down, a exterior thermometer, four-mode trip computer, 60/40 split folding rear seat, ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), six airbags and driver selectable AWD. Despite its lack of an intercooler, the lower-level air intake is quite EVO-ish. The handsomely sculpted hood is reminiscent of Audi’s latest TT. The SX4’s sharp proboscis confidently displays the samurai-slash family logo. The almost-but-not-quite butch SX4 offers a clear break from its geeky brothers, and a much appreciated change of direction for the otherwise bland brand. Hmmm…? Could this sub-radar Suzuki be a sleeper?Įvery other passenger vehicle in Suzuki’s domestic lineup dorkidly screams nerd the Reno, Aerio and Forenza all look pasty, awkward and four-eyed. (In keeping with the parlance of our times, Suzuki shuns the “w” word and calls the SX4 a crossover.) A quick walk around revealed four big wheels, four big disc brakes, a Prius style double A-pillar and an AWD badge. If first impressions last, this tall, decidedly Japanese runabout says Subaru Forrester meets Scion xA on the suburban side of town. What the Hell’s a Suzuki’s SX4? I know it’s my job to know about these things, but I swear the test car greeting me upon my return from Old Blighty was the first one I’ve ever seen.
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