Suzuki does its first model replacement as the all-new SX4.

Just a few years ago most of us were used to the idea of Suzuki producing mostly motorcycles, with only the SJ and Vitara 4-wheel drives of past years.

Then, in 2008, Suzuki came back strong when it launched a selection of cars, which is now ever-growing.  One of these is the SX4, which was actually one of the pioneers of the high big hatch cross-over type.  Gone is the compact stubby SX4 body which it shared from the Fiat Sedici (not available locally). 

Just having a quick search on Auto Trader shows there are quite a few of these SX4s around.

Now, in 2014, Suzuki is doing its first model replacement as the all-new SX4.  In comes a grown-up SX4 – although it appears to have grown up physically, it is the 10cm longer wheelbase and large front overbite that makes it appear to have grown more than the measured 16cm longer. 

Suzuki is also giving SX4 a grown-up market positioning – the new cross-over now has the likes of soft-padded surfaces and much more trim highlighting – the overall feel is of simplicity and spaciousness (with a cabin 22cm longer).

The one part that did not grow is the engine – the previous SX4 had a 2.0 across the range, which helped give it such a spirited feel.  The new bigger car is claimed to be about 50kg lighter, but the engine has been downsized (not the downsize plus turbo as the European cars have done) but just a downsize – the 1.6 engine is much weaker than the 2.0:  from 112kW down to 86, and torque drops from 190 to 156.  On the road, especially in the AllGrip all-wheel-drive with CVT automatic, the new engine is claimed to be more fuel efficient, but having to work much harder more of the time than the 2.0, that gain is lost.

The line-up consists of GL or GLX.  The GL is a front-wheel drive 5-speed manual, starting off with ABS braking and Electronic Stability Program, 7 airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag) with Isofix child-seat tether points, and items like 16”alloy wheels, cruise control and Bluetooth/MP3 infotainment system.

GLX adds HID projector headlamps, light-sensing lamps, electrically folding mirrors with built-in turn signals, automatic dimming for the interior mirror, and keyless push-button engine start (replacing the previous SX4 which also had keyless start, by – unusual trick – twisting the ignition ring).  What sets the GLX apart is the black & sheen-silver alloy wheels and silver “protection plates” garnish for that 4x4 off-roader look.  The AllGrip is 4x4, and features a drive-mode select for auto, snow, sport or all-wheel drive lock.

Where the first SX4 was pioneering as a great all-rounder with zesty character, the new SX4 is bigger and more spacious, to now compete with a host of other longer compact cross-overs like the Peugeot 2008 and new Nissan Qashqai.  Pricing goes between R 265 900 and R 341 900, placing it right there with the bigger newer cars. 

The SX4’s 1.6 engine is a problem – it needs more performance.  The growing up in size and market positioning has its advantages, though also means it is now more similar to its rivals in dimensions and price, causing it to lose some of its attainable compact friendliness.