ONE of the few Japanese car companies to make a profit last year, Suzuki has been quick to upgrade its SX4 range, adding stability control and improving fuel economy.
Launched three years ago, the compact SUV-styled hatch and more conventional sedan, now have an upgraded 2.0-litre engine producing a little more power and torque and taller gearing through new six-speed manual and CVT transmissions.
The addition of variable valve timing and the broader spread of gear ratios have reduced fuel use from a relatively thirsty 9.1 litres/100km to a more appealing 7.6 litres/100km in the manual all-wheel drive hatch version and from 9.6 to 8.0 litres/100km in auto.
Minor cosmetic changes include a new grille and alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim and a rear spoiler on the sedan.
Armed with flair, versatility and solid build quality, the SX4 is fun to drive and loaded with practical features, including a huge boot in the sedan.
The name means sport-crossover-four seasons, which is fitting for the high-riding, all-wheel-drive hatch version but a stretch for the lower-riding front-drive sedan.
Other changes include new interior trim, a new grille, new alloy wheels and fittings.
The addition of stability control earns a four-star safety rating, but not five, as there is no rear seatbelt warning light.
All-wheel drive versions have a three-mode system - front-drive, all-wheel drive and all-wheel drive lock at speeds up to 60km/h.
Prices are up 1.5 per cent and range from $20,490 to $25,490 in the front-drive hatch, from $23,990 to $25,990 in the sedan and from $23,490 to $27,690 in the all-wheel drive hatch.
