Forget the idea that Suzuki only makes dirt bikes and watercraft. The Suzuki SX4 is one of those high value products that are probably misunderstood for its size. Suzuki->ke87 took the SX4 and gave it a complete makeover using high quality materials and tasteful styling to re-create a strong competitor in the sub compact class. Even a Yaris owner might think that the SX4 is a bit too small for them, but that all changes once you get into this little car with a big interior. It literally makes you forget that you are sitting in a sub-compact. Once you are behind the wheel of this small giant you also forget that you are driving a little car because of its 2.0 4 cylinder engine paired with Suzuki’s CVT 6 speed manual transmission.

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The interior is one of the Suzuki SX4's best attributes sporting a simple, user friendly design and top-notch materials. Standard equipment includes air-conditioning, full power door locks, power mirrors, power windows, a CD/MP3 player and a six-way manual driver seat that provides good space for taller drivers. The SX4 I had came equipped with the Sport trim package which added automatic climate control, cruise control, keyless entry and ignition, a trip computer, a navigation system and a premium audio system with six-CD changer, subwoofer and steering wheel controls.

Surprisingly the cabin is quite spacious so there is plenty of room for five to ride comfortably. Other interior features include iPod and Bluetooth phone connectivity that are controlled through the steering wheel. The front seats hold you in well and feel comfortable. I also liked the armrest on both seats which make driving long distances more bearable. Rear leg room was not that bad, for a car of this size. Visibility is a plus on the SX4. The way the pillars are laid out gives the impression of a larger vehicle when you are actually driving a sub-compact. Trunk space on the SX4 is another feature that you would not expect to find in a small car, but once again Suzuki delivers in this area with 15 cubic feet of trunk capacity that can accommodate up to 3 carryon bags.

The Suzuki SX4 is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 150 hp and 140 lbs of torque which is really good considering that most of us are doing our best to cut corners in an effort to conserve more power. Fuel economy for the SX4 ranges from 25 mpg city to 32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined. In the week I had this car I only made one trip to the gas station. The 2.0 is connected to Suzuki’s standard six-speed manual transmission (CVT). When paired with the CVT the engine's output drops slightly to 148 hp. All SX4s are front-wheel drive except for the Crossover hatchback which offers an AWD option. This little car can actually take a turn well. Braking on the SX4, which comes equipped with a four-wheel disc anti lock brake system, was also up to par. I was very pleased with the throttle response on the highway when it came to passing other cars.

In summary, the 2010 Suzuki SX4 Sport back offers an affordable and fun option for city drivers looking to optimize their fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much cabin comfort. This is Suzuki’s least expensive car yet it offers a surprising amount of headroom and legroom for both driver and passenger. The stylish-looking interior includes plenty of standard and optional features. The SX4 travels down the road with a reasonably solid feel. At times you forget that you are behind the wheel of a subcompact! The SX4 four-cylinder engine is surprisingly strong and is up to the task when needed on the highway. Its roomy trunk easily converts the car from weekday commuter to weekend traveler and its small size eases maneuverability and makes the most of a small engine. The driving experience was surprisingly pleasant and the savings in fuel are generous to the wallet as well.