Suzuki has wheeled-out an upgraded SX4 crossover with extra features and more power thanks to a new 2.0-litre four cylinder engine.
There are two model grades for the SX4 hatchback (available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive) – SX4 and SX4S. The latter gains 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, remote keyless entry, steering wheel gearshift paddles (CVT auto), climate-control air, fog lights and an up upgraded audio system.
Suzuki’s all-wheel-drive system is called i-AWD (intelligent all-wheel-drive) and provides a driver-select 4x4 system (2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock). The 4WD Lock mode is good for snow and beach driving at speeds below 60 km/h.
For sedan buyers, the SX4 sedan is available exclusively in the ‘S’ variant.
The new engine is code-named J20B and it delivers more power and torque (112kW/190Nm) with reduced fuel consumption (7.3l/100kms). CO2 emissions have also been cut – now down to 193g/km.
Contributing to those improved fuel consumption and emissions figures are two new transmissions – a six-speed manual and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) automatic. The CVT allows manual shifting via a traditional gear level (entry level model) or steering wheel paddle shifters (‘S’ models).
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control is now standard across the SX4 range.
Exterior changes are limited to a new mesh front grille, but inside there are new instruments, new air-conditioning controls and backlighting for the steering wheel audio controls.
SX4 Hatch is a handy crossover, well-built in the Suzuki way and offering some of the best interior space in its market segment.
Prices for the new lineup are:
SX4 Hatch (Manual) $20,490
SX4 Hatch (Auto) $22,490
SX4 S Hatch (Manual) $23,490
SX4 S Hatch (Auto) $25,490
SX4 AWD (Manual) $23,490
SX4 AWD (Auto) $25,490
SX4 S AWD (Manual) $25,690
SX4 S AWD (Auto) $27,690
SX4 S Sedan (Manual) $23,990
SX4 S Sedan (Auto) $25,990
