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.
A Stereo of Note
As a longtime audio freak as well as a car reviewer, I know that speaker
counts, wattage claims and the term "premium stereo" mean nothing in the real
world. I like to highlight when an ...
Clutch Pedal
Clutch Pedal
Check the clutch pedal for smooth operation
and clutch fluid level from time to time.
If clutch dragging is felt with the pedal fully
depressed, have the clutch inspected by
your S ...
Using the Transaxle
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Gearshift lever
WARNING:
Always depress the brake pedal
before shifting from “P” (Park) (or
“N” (Neutral) if the vehicle is stationary)
to a forward ...