Suzuki SX4 - Sport x-over for all seasons
Suzuki’s SX4 is a distinctive five-door hatchback that blends the characteristics of sporty compacts exemplified by the Swift, with those of lightweight SUVs such as the Grand Vitara, to create an exciting small car alternative. The popular model has been revised for 2010 with numerous styling and interior changes as well as an introduction of a cleaner and more powerful 1.6-litre petrol engine.
The resulting ‘sport X-over’ combines responsive driving dynamics, 4x4 capability, high levels of practicality and styling that suggests a freestyle approach to life.
The UK line-up offers two engine options – one diesel and one petrol. A new 120PS 1.6 litre VVT petrol engine is available in either SZ3 or SZ4 2WD (front-wheel drive) format or as a 4x4 SZ5 model with selectable/automatic four-wheel drive. The 1.6-litre DDiS will be available in SZ4 trim from April 2010, together with the SZ5 4X4 petrol.
Model - Price OTR
1.6 SZ3 5-speed manual £11,640
1.6 SZ4 5-speed manual £12,255
1.6 SZ4 automatic transmission £13,280
The Suzuki SX4 is styled to look good in any setting. Fusing the dynamism of SUVs with the elegance of passenger cars gives poise and presence beyond the model’s compact size. The 2010 model features a redesigned front bumper and grill together with new design 16-inch alloy wheels for SZ4 and SZ5 models.
Three model grades are available: SZ3; SZ4 and SZ5 which is available for the 4x4 petrol model. All models have a bold SUV appearance with wheel arch extensions, side under protection mouldings and front and rear skid plates.
For the interior, the lower centre dashboard panel has been revised and incorporates a new display; housing the audio, air conditioning and other controls. On SZ4 models the large dials of the fully automatic air conditioning have ring lights, which make them easier to see and use, while adding to the overall refined quality. The new design instrument cluster incorporates a driver information display for average and instantaneous fuel consumption, fuel range and outside temperature. The steering wheel audio controls are now illuminated for added convenience.
On board refinement and comfort is enhanced in the latest model with the fitment of cushioned armrests in the doors; additional sound insulation throughout the cabin together with new design carpets; all helping lower NVH levels.
On the outside; a larger engine under shield cover together with improved transmission damping and increased rigidity of body parts have also been incorporated.
Specification
SX4 is well equipped as standard with the SZ3 model offering six airbags; remote central locking with deadlocks, air conditioning, MP3 / WMA compatible CD tuner with eight speakers, four electric windows, driver information display and illuminated steering wheel mounted audio controls.
The SZ4 model adds fog lamps; 16-inch alloy wheels, side body protection and heated door mirrors. Petrol engine SZ4 models have an even higher specification with keyless entry and start; dashboard centre speaker and automatic air conditioning.
On sale in April, the top of the range SZ5 model adds i- AWD (intelligent – All-Wheel Drive), MP3 / WMA compatible six CD changer and rear privacy glass,
Pure driving exhilaration
1.6 litre petrol and 1.6 litre diesel units
The Suzuki SX4 was engineered from the outset to offer all-wheel drive capability, yet still deliver sharp, dynamic performance. The inherent qualities of sporty hatchbacks are evident in the car’s responsiveness and comfortable long-distance travel, while Suzuki’s extensive experience in 4WD technology delivers all-wheel traction that is more than adequate for everyday situations.
The revised 1.6-litre Euro 5 compliant petrol engine features drive by wire throttle control, a new variable valve timing and variable intake system for enhanced driveability and response. It powers the 2WD models with manual transmission from nought to 62 mph in 10.7 seconds – 11.5 seconds for the 4x4 model. In combined cycle driving, the 2WD manual models return 45.6mpg, a 10 per cent improvement over the previous engine, while the 4x4 is only slightly behind, returning 43.5mpg, a very respectable figure for a petrol-powered 4x4.
The 1.6-litre petrol engine has a new cylinder head and block which offer improved cooling performance and improved ‘knock’ or detonation control limits; the higher power output (120PS vs 107PS) over the previous engine has been achieved by extending the intake and exhaust valve lift with variable valve timing and utilising a variable inlet manifold.
The variable intake system is similar to that used in the Grand Vitara 2.4-litre engine in which rotary valves in the intake manifold change the length of the intake ports according to engine speed. The result is improved intake efficiency throughout the rev range.
The 1.6-litre DDiS engine, sourced from Peugeot, delivers 90PS and 215Nm of torque at just 1,750rpm to ensure lively, flexible performance and strong fuel economy. Mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and driving through the front wheels, it achieves an impressive 57.6mpg (combined cycle) and CO2 emissions of just 129g/km. Nought to 62mph acceleration is achieved in 12.2 seconds, with a top speed (where permitted) of 109mph.
The 2010 model SX4 is on sale now with the 4x4 SZ5 and SZ4 DDiS models being introduced in April. Service intervals are every 9,000 miles and all SX4’s have a three year, 60,000 miles warranty in line with other Suzuki models.
