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.
Specifications
NOTE:
Specifications are subject to change without
notice.
M/T: Manual transaxle.
A/T: Automatic transaxle.
2WD: 2-wheel drive.
i-AWD: intelligent All Wheel Drive.
...
Leak Detection Pump
NOTE:
Your vehicle has a pump to regularly check
the vehicle’s evaporative emission control
system for leaks. This check is performed
approximately five hours after the engine is
turned off. Du ...