THEY say great things come in small packages and the Suzuki SX4 is the perfect example.
Admittedly, it’s not the biggest sports utility vehicle on the block and at times it isn’t the fastest, but when it comes to fun-packed motoring with plenty of top notch specifications all at a price that keeps you smiling, the SX4 is leaps and bounds ahead of many competitors.
The mid-spec SZ4 model I tried was powered by a 1.6-petrol driven engine which delivered ample power for city centre driving where it moved through the busy traffic with ease, and the rear parking sensors help to make any driver look like an accomplished parker of vehicles into tight spaces.
The five-speed manual transmission was also nice and responsive although once or twice on faster roads, I did look for a sixth gear… to no avail.
The SX4 easily kept up with faster moving traffic on motorways and dual carriageways, but when fully laden, it rather died a death on steeper hills. But that aside it’s quite a package for the just under £12,500 asking price.
Creature comforts are plentiful with air con, pollen filter, keyless entry and start, a CD player with MP3 compatibility and eight speakers, snazzy alloys, tinted glass and plenty more besides.
Comfort levels are also good and the high sides mean everyone benefits from a light and spacious cabin atmosphere.
There is ample legroom for rear seat passengers and Suzuki bills the SX4 as capable of carrying five people - this is possible but the three in the back row will be pushed for space to say the least.
There are plenty of useful storage compartments throughout the vehicle and the generously-sized boot can be expanded further thanks to the 60:40 split rear seats that can quickly be folded flat when necessary.
The SX4 has a comprehensive list of safety specifications too with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, plenty of airbags, top-notch seatbelts and lots more.
All in all, the SX4 is perfect for the family driver who wants to live life to the full and have the vehicle that helps achieve that goal.
FAST FACTS
Suzuki SX4 1.6 SZ4
Price: £12,395
Mechanical: 120ps, 1,586cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
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