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2009 Suzuki SX4 Features Review

July 13, 2009

FEATURES | 7 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Even when loaded...the SX4 costs less than $17,000
Motor Trend

Better equipped in base form than many [of] its competitors
Kelley Blue Book

Standard features list includes air conditioning, remote keyless entry
Cars.com

A short and cheap options list means that the 2009 Suzuki SX4 is a true bargain. For 2009, Suzuki sweetens the SX4’s features package by including a touch screen navigation system as standard equipment.

The Garmin system is referred to by Suzuki as TRIP (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play). The unit features a removable, flip-up 4.3-inch touch screen display; is preloaded with mapping software with millions of hotels, restaurants, gasoline stations, ATMs, and so on; and is fully integrated into the SX4’s audio system. An optional upgraded TRIP system includes Bluetooth hands-free calling, on-screen and audible text messaging, plus other features.

Edmunds mentions "16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, air-conditioning, a CD/MP3 player and full power accessories" as standard features of the 2009 Suzuki SX4. Kelley Blue Book reports that the Suzuki SX4 is "better equipped in base form than many its competitors" and says the 2009 Suzuki SX4's "crowning touch is its easy-to-use three-mode intelligent All-Wheel-Drive system (i-AWD)."

Unlike similar vehicles, the SX4’s options do not add substantially to the price; Motor Trend notes that "even when loaded with the available Touring package...the SX4 costs less than $17,000." However, many reviews read by TheCarConnection.com point out that some features are missing from the 2009 Suzuki SX4. MotherProof is particularly vocal when decrying "the fact that there's no auxiliary input for plugging in an iPod—hard to believe." This feature is becoming ubiquitous on modern vehicles, but for the Suzuki SX4, ConsumerGuide says it's only available as a $160 option, and an adapter and a "satellite radio" system are the only stand-alone options on the 2009 Suzuki SX4. Most options for the Suzuki SX4 come in "packages," according to Kelley Blue Book: "the Convenience Package includes cruise control, heated outside mirrors, automatic climate control and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control buttons." Edmunds reports "the Touring Package offers automatic climate control, an upgraded nine-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD changer, heated outside mirrors and the SmartPass keyless entry and engine-start system."

Conclusion

The 2009 Suzuki SX4 offers a tremendous value, but a few key features are still conspicuously absent.

FEATURES | 7 out of 10Expert Quotes:Even when loaded...the SX4 costs less than $17,000Motor TrendBetter equipped in base form than many [of] its competitorsKelley Blue BookStandard features list includes air conditioning, remote keyless entryCars.com A short and cheap options list means that the 2009 Suzuki SX4 is a true bargain. For 2009, Suzuki sweetens the SX4’s features package by including a touch screen navigation system as standard equipment. The Garmin system is referred to by Suzuki as TRIP (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play). The unit features a removable, flip-up 4.3-inch touch screen display; is preloaded with mapping software with millions of hotels, restaurants, gasoline stations, ATMs, and so on; and is fully integrated into the SX4’s audio system. An optional upgraded TRIP system includes Bluetooth hands-free calling, on-screen and audible text messaging, plus other features. Edmunds mentions "16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, air-conditioning, a CD/MP3 player and full power accessories" as standard features of the 2009 Suzuki SX4. Kelley Blue Book reports that the Suzuki SX4 is "better equipped in base form than many its competitors" and says the 2009 Suzuki SX4's "crowning touch is its easy-to-use three-mode intelligent All-Wheel-Drive system (i-AWD)." Unlike similar vehicles, the SX4’s options do not add substantially to the price; Motor Trend notes that "even when loaded with the available Touring package...the SX4 costs less than $17,000." However, many reviews read by TheCarConnection.com point out that some features are missing from the 2009 Suzuki SX4. MotherProof is particularly vocal when decrying "the fact that there's no auxiliary input for plugging in an iPod—hard to believe." This feature is becoming ubiquitous on modern vehicles, but for the Suzuki SX4, ConsumerGuide says it's only available as a $160 option, and an adapter and a "satellite radio" system are the only stand-alone options on the 2009 Suzuki SX4. Most options for the Suzuki SX4 come in "packages," according to Kelley Blue Book: "the Convenience Package includes cruise control, heated outside mirrors, automatic climate control and steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control buttons." Edmunds reports "the Touring Package offers automatic climate control, an upgraded nine-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD changer, heated outside mirrors and the SmartPass keyless entry and engine-start system." ConclusionThe 2009 Suzuki SX4 offers a tremendous value, but a few key features are still conspicuously absent. 2009 SUZUKI SX4 STYLING | [8 out of 10] MyRide.com: "everything is well placed" Kelley Blue Book: "mildly wedge-shaped bodywork matches form with function" Cars.com: "SX4 Crossover is less distinctive but more athletic looking" Suzuki's designers have clearly focused their attention ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The Toyota Matrix, although an aging design for 2009, is a good, practical alternative that may have higher resale value. The Matrix is a bit more expensive though. Like the Suzuki SX4, the Subaru Impreza comes with standard all-wheel drive. But the Impreza hatchback starts more than $2,000 higher than the SX4 hatchback. Arguably, the Impreza feels a little more substantial, but it doesn't have any more usable interior space. Those torn between the sedan and hatchback might consider the Dodge Caliber, a hatchback with a more sedan-like profile and some useful convenience options. However, all-wheel drive is only available on the Caliber in the top-of-the-range R/T model. The Nissan Versa is an especially low-priced model that comes well equipped and has a roomy, comfortable interior.

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See the Suzuki SX4 in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

Comments (1 total)

  1. By Sam #1, Posted: 8/16/2009

    "Suzuki sweetened the deal by including a touch screen navigation system as standard equipment." That's news to me, and I just bought one. At no point did I see a nav system, much less touch screen.

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