If my experience driving around Chicago is any indicator, there's quite a market for small, sporty-looking hatchbacks. Most of them are heavily modified used cars, and against this benchmark the SX4 performs quite well, if for no other reason than it has up-to-date safety equipment.
It's when the SX4 is compared with other new offerings that it suffers. Is it as crisp, poised and refined as the segment leaders? Nope. And while it's fun to drive on twisty roads, it's not the most fun. The SX4 doesn't look like many other cars on the road, and the SportBack version is well-differentiated from its siblings. For some people, that plus good handling will be enough. I'm not convinced, though, that I wouldn't be happier in day-to-day use with something different.
Engine Hood
To open the engine hood:
1) Pull the hood release handle located on
the outboard side of the driver’s side of
the instrument panel. This will disengage
the engine hood lock half-way.
2) Pus ...
Exhaust Gas Warning
WARNING:
Avoid breathing exhaust gases.
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide,
a potentially lethal gas that is
colorless and odorless. Since carbon
monoxide is difficult to detect by
itself, ...