Suzuki SX4
The 2013 Suzuki SX4 is offered as either a 4-door sedan or as one of two 5-door hatchbacks--the SportBack or the all-wheel-drive Crossover. Sedans are available in Base, LE and Sport trim. Hatchbacks are offered in Base, Technology and Premium trim levels.
All SX4 models are powered by the same 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. Two transmissions are available--a close-ratio 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which offers paddle shifters and a "sport" mode with simulated ratios. In SX4s equipped with the manual, the engine produces 150 horsepower; in CVT models in produces 148 hp. The EPA estimates the front-wheel drive SX4 Sport is capable of 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway when equipped with the CVT. The all-wheel drive hatches are rated at 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
The Suzuki SX4 LE sedan starts inexpensively at just under $16,000. It comes modestly equipped, but with the same 150 hp 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that's standard across the lineup. Even at this price, it includes power windows and locks, air condition with pollen filter, tilt steering wheel, anti-lock brakes and front, side and curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.
An LE Popular trim comes back for 2013. It includes 15-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and remote keyless entry. The Sport sedan adds a sport-tuned suspension, a body kit, navigation and a subscription to Suzuki's "NuLink" system which provides in-car information and data such as fuel prices, weather forecasts and traffic.
The SX4 Sportback brings additional versatility to the lineup. The base Sportback features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear wiper, a CD/MP3 stereo, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry and air conditioning. It comes with either a choice of 6-speed manual or CVT transmission.
The all-wheel drive version of the Sportback, which Suzuki calls the SX4 Crossover, maintains the high-value content of the Sportback, but adds a 3-mode all-wheel drive system, heated mirrors and a special body kit.
The Technology trim adds such high-end features as heated front seats and a navigation system and a 1-year subscription to Suzuki's "NuLink" system.