Suzuki launches top-of-the-range SX4

Suzuki has launched a high-specification version of its SX4 - the SZ5. Available with either the 1.6-litre VVT petrol or a new 2.0-litre DDiS diesel, this top of the range model gets four-wheel drive as standard is also fitted with rear privacy glass and cruise control as well as standard features such as four electric windows, front fog lights, keyless entry and start, 16-inch alloy wheels and automatic air conditioning.

The UK line-up now offers three ‘SZ' grades and two engine options - one diesel and one petrol. The 120bhp 1.6-litre VVT petrol engine is available in either SZ3 or SZ4 2WD (front-wheel drive) specification or as a 4x4 SZ5 model with selectable/automatic four-wheel drive. The latest 2.0-litre DDiS 4x4 is available as an SZ5. Prices start at £11,750 for the 1.6 SZ3 while the new 1.6 SZ5 will set you back £14,235. The top 2.0 DDiS is £15,995.

For those unfamilier with the Suzuki SX4, it's a five-door hatchback that is designed to blend the characteristics of sporty hatchbacks like the Suzuki Swift, with those of lightweight SUVs such as the Grand Vitara, to create an practical small car alternative. All versions have a bold SUV appearance with wheel arch extensions, side protection mouldings and front and rear skid plates.

The new 2.0-litre DDiS diesel engine offers high power and strong torque of 320Nm at just 1500rpm. It is Euro 5 compliant and has an output of 135bhp at 3500rpm, achieving 51.4mpg on the combined fuel consumption cycle with CO2 emissions of 143g/km. Both SZ5 models come with four-wheel drive which has an i-AWD switchable three-mode all-wheel drive system. This is a simple to operate electric control coupling device which allows the driver to select 4WD-Auto, 4WD-Lock, and 2WD modes to suit driving conditions, giving excellent traction on low grip surfaces.

In 4WD-Auto mode in normal driving conditions there is no torque transfer to the rear wheels, so the SX4 effectively operates as a front-wheel drive. As soon as any pronounced front wheel slip is detected, torque is automatically transferred to the rear wheels to give all-wheel traction and improve vehicle stability. 4WD-Lock mode maintains full traction up to around 40mph, before automatically switching to 4WD-Auto mode for smooth cruising. Selecting 2WD (drive through the front wheels) optimises fuel economy.

The SX4 is well equipped as standard with the SZ3 getting six airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, air conditioning, MP3 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 as well as keyless entry and start, dashboard centre speaker and automatic air conditioning.

The top of the range SZ5 1.6-litre petrol adds i-AWD (intelligent - All-Wheel Drive) and rear privacy glass with the 2.0 DDiS also including cruise control and six speed manual transmission as additional standard equipment.