Introduction

The Suzuki SX4, introduced between 2006 and 2010, is a crossover that blends off-road styling with the practicality of a family hatchback. Designed with versatility in mind, it offers both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options, making it a strong contender for those looking for a capable yet affordable vehicle. While it may not be a full-fledged off-roader, the SX4 brings enough toughness and flair to handle a variety of conditions with ease. Developed in collaboration with Fiat, this compact crossover combines Japanese build quality with a hint of Latin style, making it a unique option in its class.

The Appeal of the Suzuki SX4

At first glance, the Suzuki SX4 might not seem like the type of car you’d take off-road. Despite its raised ground clearance—on par with the Suzuki Grand Vitara—it’s not built for extreme off-road adventures. Instead, the SX4 is ideal for navigating challenging weather conditions, especially those that are common in regions like the UK, where rain and slippery roads are a regular occurrence.
With its rugged looks and practicality, the SX4 is designed to be a reliable family vehicle with a little extra capability. The car’s development with Fiat gives it a European touch, while still maintaining the durability and reliability Suzuki is known for. The SX4 isn’t just another budget crossover—it’s a thoughtfully designed vehicle that blends city-friendly dimensions with features that can tackle tougher terrains when needed.

Engine Choices and Performance

The SX4 offers three engine options in the UK: a 1.6-liter petrol engine producing 107 brake horsepower and two diesel engines, one sourced from Fiat and another from Peugeot. The petrol engine is the entry-level option, providing decent performance with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 106 mph. It’s a capable engine for daily driving, offering enough power for both city commutes and longer highway journeys.
For those seeking better fuel economy and torque, the diesel engines are the more attractive options. The Fiat-sourced 1.9-liter diesel offers 120 brake horsepower, while the Peugeot-sourced 1.6-liter diesel provides 89 brake horsepower. The 1.9-liter diesel, with its higher torque, makes overtaking and highway driving a breeze, reaching 60 mph in around 11.2 seconds. However, for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the 1.6-liter diesel, which delivers 53 miles per gallon, is the clear winner.

Four-Wheel Drive System

The SX4’s four-wheel-drive capability, available in the “4Grip” models, adds another layer of versatility to this vehicle. Suzuki’s all-wheel-drive system operates similarly to the Haldex system found in vehicles like the Audi TT. The system directs power to the rear wheels when the front wheels lose traction, providing added stability in slippery conditions.
Drivers can switch between different modes, but most of the time, the car operates in a front-wheel-drive mode to maximize fuel efficiency. When the road conditions get tough, the system automatically adjusts to provide better traction, making it perfect for handling wet roads or light off-road conditions. There’s also a lock mode that ensures maximum grip by locking the front and rear axles together, useful in low-speed scenarios or on tricky surfaces.

Exterior and Interior Design

The Suzuki SX4 is not designed to go head-to-head with larger off-road vehicles like the Nissan X-Trail or Land Rover Freelander. Instead, it offers a more compact package, similar in size to a Ford Focus, but with a higher ride height and a tougher exterior. Its dimensions make it ideal for city driving while still giving it the ability to tackle rougher terrain when needed.
Inside, the SX4 provides a practical and well-thought-out layout, though it’s not without its limitations. The front seats offer plenty of space, but rear legroom is somewhat limited, and the boot space stands at a modest 270 liters. This may be a downside for families who need more storage for trips, but the SX4 makes up for it with clever interior design and a solid build quality. The dashboard is intuitive and well laid out, though the materials used are not as premium as those found in some of its competitors.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing, the Suzuki SX4 offers strong value. Prices typically fall within the £10,000 to £15,000 range, making it a competitive option compared to similar family hatchbacks. It’s important to note that there are two distinct SX4 product lines: the 4Grip models, which are more SUV-like with features like alloy wheels, wheel arch extensions, and front and rear skid plates, and the more basic GLX models. The 4Grip variant, with its all-wheel-drive system, is well worth the extra cost if you live in an area with challenging weather or rough terrain.
In terms of running costs, the 1.6-liter petrol engine offers a reasonable 41 miles per gallon, while the diesel options provide even better fuel economy. The 1.6-liter diesel, for example, achieves 53 miles per gallon, making it the most cost-effective option for long-distance driving. Emissions are also competitive, with the 1.6-liter diesel emitting 139 grams per kilometer of CO2, which is lower than both the petrol and the larger 1.9-liter diesel engines.

Is the Suzuki SX4 Worth It?

The Suzuki SX4 might not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of compact crossovers, but it certainly holds its own in this crowded market. For those who find the Suzuki Swift too small but don’t want to move up to a full-sized SUV, the SX4 offers a perfect middle ground. It combines practicality with a bit of off-road capability, making it an excellent choice for families looking for something different from the usual hatchback options.
If you’re considering one of the four-wheel-drive models, the SX4 becomes even more intriguing. Few vehicles in this price range offer a capable all-wheel-drive system, making it almost unique in its segment. Even if you’re looking at the two-wheel-drive variants, the SX4’s stylish design and practical features make it a worthy competitor in the family car market.

Conclusion: Should You Buy a Suzuki SX4?

The Suzuki SX4 is a left-field choice in the compact crossover market, but that’s what makes it special. It’s not a car for extreme off-road adventures, but it’s more than capable of handling rough weather and challenging road conditions. With a range of engine options, including efficient diesels and a capable petrol model, the SX4 is well-suited to a variety of driving needs.
In my experience, I found the SX4 to be a surprisingly fun car to drive, offering a balance of practicality and style that’s hard to find at this price point. I came across a review that echoed many of my thoughts and further inspired me to appreciate this versatile vehicle. If you’re interested, you can check out the full review here: Suzuki SX4 2006-2010 Review.