What Changed for 2009:

• SX4 Sedan is first car in its price class with a standard navigation system
• New entry-level LE model joins lineup
• New driver and passenger armrests and a split-folding rear seat
• Automatic climate control, heated mirrors and fog lamps included in optional Touring package

Overview
The Suzuki SX4 Crossover made its debut in 2007 as a replacement for Suzuki’s subcompact Aerio. A small 5-door hatchback, the SX4 Crossover had (and still has) the distinction of being the least-expensive car on the U.S. market with all-wheel drive (AWD), according to Suzuki. (The SX4 Crossover is reviewed separately.)

For 2008, a sedan version, called the SX4 Sport, arrived. The SX4 Sport features a 10-millimeter lower suspension, KYB performance shock absorbers, stabilizer bars, “aero” body kit, and front-wheel drive (FWD); but it shares the SX4 Crossover’s 143-hp, 2.0-liter engine.

A new entry-level model, called the SX4 Sedan LE, joins the lineup for 2009. All SX4 Sedans except for the LE now come with a standard navigation system, making it the only model under $16,000 to include such a feature, Suzuki claims. The SX4 Sedan’s 15.5 cubic-foot trunk has also been enhanced for 2009 with a standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat.

Model Lineup
Built in Japan, the 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sedan is sold in two trims: LE and Sport. Standard equipment includes air conditioning; CD/MP3 audio system; tilt steering wheel; and power windows, locks and mirrors. All versions have six air bags and anti-lock brakes. The SX4 Sport adds the integrated navigation system, “aero” body kit, 17-inch alloy wheels with low-profile 50-series tires, remote keyless entry, and other modifications.

Suzuki’s Technology package for the SX4 Sport includes fog lamps; cruise control; leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls; and an upgraded navigation system that incorporates MSN and Bluetooth features. The Sport’s Touring package adds automatic climate control; 6-disc CD changer; upgraded 9-speaker audio system; stability control; SmartPass keyless entry and start system; and heated mirrors. An accessory iPod interface is available.

Powertrain
Each 2009 Suzuki SX4 is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which puts out 143 hp at 6000 rpm and 136 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm. Transmission choices are a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The SX4 Sedan is front-wheel drive; the SX4 Crossover’s AWD system is not available. EPA fuel-economy estimates range from 22 mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on trim level and transmission choice.

Safety
Every 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sedan comes standard with front air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, and two-row side curtain air bags, as well as 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock control and electronic brake-force distribution. Daytime running lights are also standard. Available on the Sport model with the Touring package is Suzuki’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control, which can enhance stability when cornering and under slippery conditions.

In frontal crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the SX4 Sedan earned a 4-star rating for both the driver and front passenger. Side-impact testing produced a 5-star rating for the driver and 4 stars for the rear passenger. The SX4 got a 4-star rating in the NHTSA’s rollover evaluation. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given the SX4 a “Good” rating for frontal and side-impact protection, and a “Marginal” rating for rear-impact protection.

Technology
Suzuki calls its new navigation unit the TRIP (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play) system. Developed in collaboration with the Garmin company, the fully integrated system uses Navteq mapping software and a removable flip-up 4.3-inch touch-screen display. Preloaded street maps feature millions of points of interest. Lifestyle-oriented destinations and landmarks are classified with a Suzuki “Way of Life” icon on the screen. An available Travel Guide expansion module adds Fodor reviews and recommendations of hotels, restaurants, shopping and attractions.

Also available is an upgraded TRIP system that offers Bluetooth hands-free calling technology, plus on-screen and audible text messaging. Included are various MSN Direct-enable features including real-time traffic, weather forecasts, news reports, stock quotes, event listings, and a gas-station finder with price information.

Despite its modest price, the Suzuki SX4 offers other high-tech features such as the SmartPass keyless entry and ignition system, available as an option on Sport models. This system uses a proximity key, which is actually a tiny transmitter. The key remains in the driver's pocket or purse; the SmartPass system detects the presence of the key and allows the car to be unlocked and started.