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.
Kizashi in the Market
For what it is, the Kizashi is priced reasonably well, though Suzuki might be
wise to lower the price as an incentive for buyers. Both the compact and midsize
classes are crowded and include some ...
Winning Styling
The Kizashi actually turns heads, and that's rare in the midsize sedan class.
After more than a year, I like it even more; with the new Sport treatment, the
car looks a bit more aggressive without ...
If the Engine is Flooded
If the engine is flooded with gasoline, it
may be hard to start. If this happens, press
the accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and hold it there while cranking the
engine. (Do not operate ...