Front-side visibility is partly affected by the massive A-pillars. One would think that the little triangular window comes to the rescue, but that's really not the case. Lastly, the fuel tank is seemingly the size of my bladder, so I had to fill it up almost every time I stopped to relieve myself.

The Suzuki SX4 is wonderfully fun to drive.

Competition
Few manufacturers have come up with a compact AWD car, but that doesn't mean Suzuki shouldn't watch out. The Jeep Compass Sport 4WD ($20,195), Pontiac Vibe AWD ($21,540), Subaru Impreza 2.5i 5-door ($21,895) and Toyota Matrix AWD ($22,600) are all fierce rivals of this SX4 JLX ($23,195).

The bottom line
The 2009 Suzuki SX4 is a surprisingly capable machine that offers everything one should expect in a compact car and then some. The great driving dynamics make it an accomplished commuter on and off paved roads... provided that you drive carefully. A couple of issues need to be addressed, like the fuel tank and other design attributes, but the affordably-priced SX4 remains a clear winner in my book.


Photo Credit : Bertrand Godin