Suzuki SX4 (2006 - )  

Reasonably spacious five-seater with a decent boot, strong and economical diesel, tidy handling in 4WD. Became popular in 2011.

The boot has a high loading lip, originally you could not get a diesel with four-wheel drive but from 2008 you can.

Introduction

'Cute and Chunky' seems to sell cars, particularly to women. Now that Toyota has abandoned the short wheelbase RAV-4, Suzuki has come up with a new 3-door Vitara with very similar looks. And, in collaboration with FIAT, also presents us with this cute and chunky 5-door hatchback called the SX4, built in Esztergom, Hungary.

It's likely to succeed whereas others like the Rover Streetwise failed because as well as having urban warrior looks, it's also available with four wheel drive so has the kit to act the part should the occasion arise. However, to make sure it gets a bite at every faction of the its niche market, you can also have it as a plain two wheel drive, as a two wheel drive automatic, and as quite a powerful, yet economical diesel. Not all at the same time, though, as the two permutations you cannot have are a diesel automatic or a four wheel drive automatic.

Next: What's Good »

Last updated 29 November 2011
More at the Suzuki website  

Related News & Road Tests

Cars For Sale

New Cars Used Cars

Best monthly deals on new cars

Also Consider

  • Toyota Urban Cruiser 2009
    Chunky looks. 1.4 D-4D AWD surprisingly enjoyable to drive as well as lowest CO2 emission 4WD in the UK and in Band C VED.
  • KIA Soul 2008
    Oddball looks mean it stands out, plenty of room especially in the back, very comfortable seats, excellent 1.6 diesel and petrol engines, option of diesel automatic.
  • KIA Venga 2010
    Space-efficient and compact people carrier, large boot and flat-folding rear seat, available with a four-speed automatic 1.6 petrol, easy to park, good visibility.
  • Suzuki Grand Vitara 5dr 2005
    Good looking, on road handling much better than previous version, comparatively cheap, impressive off road.

Honest John's Car Buying Advice

Get the low-down on how to buy and sell cars the hassle-free way

Sign up for Honest John's Email Newsletter

Road Tests • Buying Tips • Deals