2014 Suzuki SX4: Suzuki Still Produces Autos, Just Not for Us [2013 Geneva Auto Show]

Despite Suzuki's departure from the U.S. market, the company continues to be a player in other parts of the world, a fact underscored by the Geneva introduction of its new SX4 crossover. The SX4 has been one of Suzuki's most popular offerings, and the latest iteration continues to be a five-passenger vehicle, based on a front-drive unibody platform, but it's substantially bigger than the current model, with a much more contemporary look and upscale interior furnishings. The SX4's growth spurt results in a 4.0-inch longer wheelbase than the outgoing model at 102.4, and overall length extends by 6.5 inches to 169.3. Height, width, and track dimensions also expand, and the sum of the increases is sufficient to move the SX4 up one size classification, into the C segment. Those increased dimensions provide a bit more room for passengers, and a lot more room for luggage and/or cargo—15.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, versus 9.5 for the current SX4. And Suzuki anticipates a five-star European NCAP crashworthiness rating. There are two engine choices, both 1.6-liter fours—a DOHC 16-valve gasoline update of the current M16A, and a turbo-diesel. Both engines are rated for 115 horsepower, but the diesel is the torque monster—236 lb-ft versus 115. The standard transmission with the gas-powered engine is a five-speed manual, while the oil-burner comes with a six-speed stick. A continuously variable transmission is the automatic option for both powerplants, and features paddle shifters with seven artificial steps to minimize CVT hunting. Comparison Test: 2013 Ford Escape SEL 4WD vs. 2012 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD, 2012 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD, 2012 Kia Sportage EX AWD, 2013 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD, 2012 Toyota RAV4 Limited 4×4 Long-Term Road Test Update: 2012 Kia Sportage SX AWD First Drive: 2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i / 2.0XT Turbo Full-time all-wheel drive is an option with either engine, an update on Suzuki's current system that the company calls ALLGRIP. It offers four driver-select operating modes—automatic, sport, snow, and lock, for particularly sticky going. The new SX4 will be assembled in Magyar, Hungary, and is slated to reach the European market this fall. Pricing and fuel-economy projections were not disclosed, but based on what Suzuki did tell us, the SX4 seems to be a stylish small crossover that could well appeal to U.S. buyers. But that's something we'll never know for sure. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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