2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover Review
Price
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to: RM92,361
Installment
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to: RM881/mth
2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover at a glance
With a raised height and rugged looks, and based on the Suzuki Swift's platform, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover is a capable crossover which can only be driven in the urban jungle, catering best to those who find SUVs to be too large.
2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover quick specs
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Class | Small Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Supposedly a cross between a sporty compact hatchback and an SUV, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover is actually rather convincing-looking with its raised height and rugged looks. Credit to Suzuki for creating a coherent mini-SUV design as many crossovers end up looking awkward one way or the other. The interior styling is far more conventional, featuring a simple, neat dashboard layout.
Handling
Based on an extended chassis that the Suzuki Swift is using, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover handles competently though not as sharply as the Swift, with expectedly lower dynamic limits than the Swift. That said, the Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover exhibits minimal body roll, clings on reasonably well through corners, and turns in with surprising eagerness. The 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover is at home in traffic and on highways, but the lack of four-wheel drive means mud-tracks should be avoided.
Comfort
The firm suspension penalises comfort, but the ride remains settled over most road surfaces. At speed, cabin refinement is blighted by the intrusive engine noise, while some wind noise is also noticeable. Seat-height adjustments are available, but the steering column is only tilt-adjustable. Drivers sit high and enjoy a good view out, but forward visibility is restricted by the split A-pillar. The simple dashboard lays everything out clearly for easy navigation.
Quality + Reliability
The 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover's cabin feels solid and durable, though not classy, which boils down to the hard plastics used in a number of places. Fit-and-finish are however largely brilliant, and controls operate with slickness. Given Suzuki's reputation for building reliable cars, major mechanicals such as the engine and transmission should pass the test of time with little problems.
Performance
The 1.6-litre, capable of producing 101 bhp and 140 Nm, feels under-powered on the roads, struggling to haul the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover's substantial weight along. To accelerate from rest or overtake at speed requires plenty of revs, which then unleashes the raucous engine note. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly however.
Roominess
For those who find the Suzuki Swift to be too small inside, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover makes a bigger, roomier alternative, offering superior rear legroom, although the cabin remains comfortable only for four on board. The boot is also larger than the Swift's, and the rear seats can 60/40 split-fold for additional loading space when needed.
Running Costs
Fuel economy of around 13.5 km/litre is not great but reasonable for a car this size and weight. Maintenance and repairs should be affordable. Depreciation could be the biggest expense as the Suzuki brand, while improving, is still not the most desirable on the resale market. We are also not sure that the Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover will be well-received considering its crossover positioning. The relative small number of SX4 Sport Crossovers available on the resale market should aid in mitigating depreciation, however.
Value for Money
Supposedly a cross between a sporty compact hatchback and an SUV, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover proved to be a capable car, catering best to those who find conventional SUVs to be too large for the city. Other than the firm ride and lack of refinement, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover performs well in all other areas, with its convincing semi-SUV looks and competent handling being its strongest points.
Equipment
Standard equipment includes leather steering wheel, power windows, central door locking, keyless entry, electric side mirrors, front fog lamps, electromagnetic tailgate opener, alarm system with immobiliser, roof rails, reverse sensor, 16" alloy wheels, steering wheel audio switches, MP3/CD/radio player and eight speakers. Safety kit includes dual front SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). SX4 Premier adds V-Kool and leather seats.
Environment
The carbon dioxide emissions level of 175 grams/km is again not great but still decent relative to the number of larger-engined cars, heavy SUVs and inefficient old cars on Malaysian roads. Being fully imported from Japan further makes the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sport Crossover more polluting compared to locally assembled cars.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Convincing mini-SUV looks
Competent handling
Solid cabin
Firm ride
Intrusive engine noise
Under-powered engine
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