2008 Suzuki SX4 Hatchback JLX AWD Review
3-3-2008
by
Luc Gagné
, Auto123.com
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Friendly... but fuel-thirsty!
As far as compact cars go, there's one that remains a well-kept secret: the Suzuki SX4. This uniquely-designed, highly versatile little hatchback proves to be attractive for many reasons other than interesting value.
 | | At $20,695, the SX4 is the cheapest AWD car on the market. |
The SX4 is one of the rare affordable cars to offer all-wheel drive. Shorter than a Jeep Compass, this 5-door model is indeed optionally available with Suzuki's tri-mode, on-demand Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) system. The driver can select any of the three following modes of power distribution: 2WD (front), 4WD Auto (up to 50 percent of the available torque is sent to the rear wheels) and 4WD Lock (permanent 50/50 split).
A knob mounted on the center console allows you to select whichever mode suits you best depending on road conditions. It's out of the driver's sight, so if you don't turn your eyes away from the road, you'll have to grope for it.
AWD is among the options available with the JX intermediate model, while it's standard fare with the top-of-the-line JLX model. Both the base hatchback and the newly-introduced sedan can't be equipped with this traction-enhancing technology.
Hurray for versatility!
Why would someone purchase the sedan when the regular SX4 offers so much versatility? With a modular rear area, this car can either accommodate four adults or a significant amount of cargo. You're moving? Perfect.
Very lightweight, the rear hatch creates a large and pretty convenient opening, especially with the low cargo threshold. On the other hand, designers failed to include lift-up rear seat cushions, so when you fold the 60/40 split seatback, you get a two-tier cargo area instead of a totally flat floor. Loading big items is therefore harder.
Compared to the SX4 Sedan, the trunk of which is not as versatile and offers a much narrower opening, the choice is easy to make. While the sedan is good for running errands, the hatchback is ideal for camping, hauling a new plasma TV or paying a visit to the antique store.
 | | Despite relatively compact dimensions, the SX4 boasts a sizeable cargo capacity. |
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