Suzuki SX4 Crossover most fun, affordable all-wheel-drive compact

By Neal White
Daily Light Editor

The 2008 Suzuki SX4 Crossover is without question the most fun-to-drive, affordable all-wheel drive compact vehicle on the road today.

It's really unfortunate that few people know about it.

While it was introduced for the 2007 model year, this week marked the first time I had the chance to log seat time behind the wheel.

My initial impression is the SX4 has to be the best-kept secret in the auto industry because if the general public knew what a great vehicle this is, the nation’s highways would be filled with them.

The SX4 Crossover is the ideal commuter vehicle. It's peppy, nimble, turns on a dime, provides lots of visibility and the five-door design provides quite a bit of flexibility for cargo options.

Best of all, it has a base price of $15,270. That's $15,270 for a nicely equipped, five-passenger, all-wheel drive vehicle that comes with a 7-year/100,000-mile, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain warranty.

Did I mention the SX4 turns on a dime? It has also moved up to the No. 1 position on my "Easiest Vehicle to Park in a Crowded Parking Lot" category. While it's not one of those highly coveted awards manufacturers buy commercial time to promote, it does mean a lot to those of us who believe parking shouldn't be a full-time job.

I am so impressed with the SX4 Crossover, I actually found people to take on a demonstration ride because I absolutely believe people need to see this vehicle.

Out of 10 people I took for a test drive, not one had ever heard of (let alone recognized) the SX4 Crossover.

All, however, were very impressed with its capabilities, ride and handling. And they were absolutely blown away when I told them how much it cost.

The SX4 Crossover comes in one content-packed trim level with two optional packages — Convenience and Touring.

It is powered by a spirited 2.0-liter I-4 engine (143 horsepower/136 lbs.-ft. torque) and is mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Requiring regular unleaded gasoline and rated as a Low Emissions Vehicle, it has an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway.

Active safety features include daytime running lights, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake force distribution and tire pressure monitoring system. Passive safety features include six standard airbags and LATCH child seat anchor system, among others.

The base model is loaded with equipment, including power locks, mirrors and windows, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, premium audio system, trip computer and roof rails. The Convenience package ($500) adds automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, cruise control and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. The Touring package ($1,100) adds electronic stability program with traction control, SmartPass keyless entry and keyless start, ultra premium audio system, rear spoiler and fog lamps.

For anyone who commutes, the SX4 Crossover is an absolute must test drive.

The secret ends here.

Neal White has been covering the automotive industry for more than 15 years and is affiliated with the Texas Auto Writers Association and the Midwest Automotive Media Association. Comments may be sent to Neal at neal.white@waxahachiedailylight.com.