Suzuki Jimny
Suzuki Jimny
1.3 (85 hp) 4AT, price 669,000 rubles.
Suzuki Grand Vitara
2.4 (169 hp) 4AT, price 910,000 rubles.
Even though they share the same last name. Of course, Suzuki Motors is by no means the only company that produces four-wheel drive vehicles in several classes. But in competing firms, the range presented is usually more linear - from large to small, but with a more or less similar concept. And here in three models we see a “look at the object” from completely different angles, but at a completely comparable price. Let's also admire, the more there is something
In principle, all utilitarian all-terrain vehicles initially had a "main customer" in the form of the Ministry of Defense. Gelaendewagen, Defender, Land cruiser, Patrol, UAZ, etc. were created not for the needs of fans of off-road sorties, but primarily as field command vehicles, which will have to drive on roads and without, and which are difficult to spoil, but not a pity to scratch. This is precisely their charm, but over the past 20-30 years, "pacifists" have noticeably pressed the "militarists" behind the wheel of unpretentious, tall and usually compact SUVs. And, of course, as soon as commerce intervened, these models began to acquire bourgeois fat - after all, you can’t ask for a lot of money for an absolutely utilitarian car skeleton without doors, a roof, amplifiers, electric drives and air conditioning. Therefore, at their bases appeared well for us famous models, sometimes grown to the premium segment, and the charm of masculinity and brutality has grown a little. And these formerly militarized means of transport are often run by blondes and bespectacled men.
True to yourself
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In this company, the Suzuki Jimny hasn't been "rooted" too far. Compactness, high ground clearance, almost no overhangs, all-wheel drive without a differential - as you know, Jimny spun off from the primitive Samurai (this name alone smells of the Japanese military - hara-kiri there, kamikaze, Kamikashvili ... - although, sorry, this is from another opera!). But still, a hard top and a sufficient set of "asphalt" options are present.
Has your “half” looked after this cute little eye?
- Dear, look, what a baby, it will be easy and pleasant for me to park on it in the yard: no curbs are scary, it’s not a pity and not expensive to peel off the black plastic bottoms. Well, let's take it yourself!
Damn, as if looking after a cute puppy!
But in her arguments, she seems to be right. All of the above benefits are here. How to explain to a woman that this car, although short, inexpensive and quite “cute” in appearance, has a completely different target audience, which differs not even by gender, but by the place and type of operation? .. Just Jimny has nothing to do in the city, but especially on the track. He does not like these modes and is not created for them. By nature he is a peasant. However…
1300 dice, 85 hp and 17 s to “hundreds” do not inspire optimism before traffic light starts. But practice shows the opposite: if the machine does not “tear”, then it “takes away” quite cheerfully. This is generally a property of light low-power cars - they are ready to jump forward with a vigorous start no worse than more powerful, but heavy brothers. And somewhere up to 50-70 km / h, acceleration goes on the leading edge of the stream rushing to the next traffic light, and then the pace noticeably slows down. But Jimny has a few more trump cards to overcome urban obstacles. One of them is unexpected - a pretty, although not plaintive, but a cocky appearance. And they willingly let him go forward, and do not press him, as larger “predators” could do with another small machine. I repeatedly caught the approving smiles of drivers of various transport "castes" - from personal workers on member trucks to summer residents on VAZs. Even the "vadytel" of the "Gazelle" made an approving wave of his hand. Although, maybe he drove the fly away.
Another trump card is more obvious - the modesty of dimensions, especially in width. Most road users, no matter how much they push and puff out their cheeks, would not be able to seep through such narrow gaps in traffic jams. And the ultra-short base allows you to turn around almost on a patch, despite the small maximum angle turning the front wheels. And, finally, if the city is already completely up (10 points), that fantastically high landing above the road will help you get sideways from the road - you can also leave through high obstacles. Even if with a deviation from some norms and rules - well, if there is nowhere to go!
Riding on the highway on the Jimny is unlikely to give anyone pleasure - there is almost no opportunity to quickly accelerate when the speedometer needle is at the 100 km / h mark. We are speeding up, of course, but barely. And this notorious compactness ... How does it "goat" in the pits! And on any - large, medium and small. And in the ruts it sausages and strives to throw it sideways! In tight corners, especially on wet roads, the rear-wheel-drive, short-wheelbase, tall, narrow car's tendency to skid is threatening. After all, all-wheel drive here, as it was supposed to be according to the classics of the genre, can only be activated at low speeds and not on dry surfaces. Okay, okay, we reduce the speed to 80, and even though we get in the way of our neighbors downstream, we drive quite safely and almost comfortably. Rather, it would be on a country road, and there we can connect the front axle to help. Then we will show who is the boss in the house! The cat will shed mouse tears!
Now a few words about ergonomics - a couple not because there is not enough space, just Jimny has a little ergonomics too. The shoulders are cramped at the doors, the range of longitudinal movement of the driver's seat is small (with the driver's height of 185 cm, he had to be put on the last "click"). Behind you, not only you can’t put yourself behind you, but in general a child larger than an eight-year-old will not fit. I would call the landing formula here 3 + 1. That is, when the front passenger drives forward so that his knees rest against the dashboard, another of the same average citizen can sit behind him. And behind the driver - only a child. Yes, and the width of the rear two large passengers will be crushed too tightly.
Suzuki Jimny
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power unit Suzuki Jimny is placed in front longitudinally. The bridges are equipped with simple symmetrical differentials (D). AT transfer case center differential not provided. On the cardan shaft drive front axle power is transmitted via a toothed chain. The driver has the ability to directly influence the distribution of power in the transmission. There are three servo keys on the center panel: 2WD, 4WD and 4WD-L. In 2WD mode, the front wheels are driven, power is not transmitted to the front axle. In 4WD mode, the front axle is connected. In 4WD-L mode, a low row is activated in the transfer case. In both all-wheel drive modes, the connection between the axles is rigid. Therefore, the manufacturer does not recommend using them when driving on roads with hard surfaces: due to the overloads resulting from the circulation of power, the probability of failure of one or another transmission element is extremely high. Note that the modification with automatic transmission will allow an unprepared driver to overcome off-road sections less problematic.
Our shoot
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SX4 has opened a class named after itself. Only, unlike the Golf, it is not yet called that way and is unlikely to be called, if only because the alphanumeric name does not encourage this. But, in my opinion, it would still be worth it!
He hit right on target. More compact than other SUVs (even half a class smaller than the Qashqai, which recently set its own standards and starting points for competitors that lagged behind), the SX4 is “a warrior in the field”. There are all-wheel drive cars in the golf class, but not raised above the road, but on the contrary, there are high-seated ones, such as Kia Soul, but exclusively with front-wheel drive. In this sense, the Suzukovites are great! Although at first, when this model entered the Russian market, they also offered the 4x4 option exclusively complete with a manual gearbox. And only the front-wheel drive version could be equipped with a machine gun. Now, please, rejoice: all in one bottle!
With all the positiveness of the model (I liked it from the first landing behind the wheel), it was the four-speed automatic transmission that caused the most irritation. The vivacity of the engine here is offset by the stupidity of the box - it is in no hurry to change gears, and the car loses pace. You need to accelerate with uniform movement - you sharply press on the gas, and the gear shifting down (at least one, if we don’t know how to two!) Does not occur with the necessary efficiency. Unpleasant, but not fatal.
But otherwise, everything is extremely worthy. The ride-to-handling proportion here is close to ideal in its class. The SX4 arcs well, predictably but not perfectly in a rearrangement. The dense suspension conscientiously works out all the bumps - from small things to large gently sloping waves. And only large bumps on the road, when you are forced to overcome them "on the move", cause breakdowns "to the stop". Feels like an ordinary (in the best sense of the word!) a car. I also liked the fairly accurate informative steering wheel, which turns the control process into a drive. And the steering wheel itself of a convenient diameter, section, location and finish contributes to information content and driving pleasure. Landing in the chair is tight, but spacious, the rear is also not crowded. From a car with small triangular windows behind the A-pillars, you expect a deterioration in visibility in these areas. But the SX4 managed to avoid this shortcoming. True, there is nothing to look at through the triangles, they could be made completely deaf, but the design would suffer.
In general, the SX4 is what I would love to buy for my wife. Otherwise, I would have used it myself … After Suzuki offered me a new automatic transmission instead of the current thoughtful four-stage!
Suzuki SX4
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The power unit of the Suzuki SX4 compact crossover is located transversely in front. The all-wheel drive version of the car differs from the front-wheel drive version by an increased ground clearance of 15 mm. But the rear suspension for both versions is the same, that is, on an all-wheel drive car, the rear wheel suspension is semi-independent (torsion beam).
Simple symmetrical differentials (D) are placed in the bridges. The multi-plate friction clutch (M) is responsible for the power take-off to the rear axle. The driver has the ability to control the distribution of power in the transmission - the mode selection key is located on the central tunnel. In 2WD mode, all traction is completely transferred to the front wheels. In AUTO mode, the electronics activates the rear wheels as needed if the front wheels slip. The LOCK program implies almost complete compression of the clutch discs (slippage as protection against overloads is still there), but when the speed reaches 64 km / h it turns off. Another way to improve the off-road properties of the car is to deactivate the stability control system.
"For Garlic"
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The current Grand Vitara is the third generation of the model. And unlike competitors of the same class that entered this field in the mid-nineties, Suzuki did not slide into the "parquet". Grand Vitara has a full off-road drivetrain. And, again, unlike many other firms, Suzuki retains the choice between five-door and three-door bodies. For the test, we decided to take exactly the short version of the design - because of the greater approximation in size and price to the other two participants. She came out even 9 cm shorter than the quite compact SX4 hatchback! Although three-doors are bought from us many times less than five-doors, many people simply do not need so many doors because of their own taste or family composition.
Of course, first of all, a rather short body allows you to confidently park, and for greater cross-country ability, reducing the base (and therefore increasing the ramp angle!) Is an extra argument. Of the obvious disadvantages: very wide doors (protrude too far when opened) and it was too far to reach for the seat belt - even further than in other cars with a similar layout. Well, a review back - they were sacrificed significantly for the sake of design. Wide mids and rear racks leave such large-scale dead zones that not only a cyclist, but also a bus can hide there. You will have to put up with this or drive faster so that you are less interested in looking back than in perspective.
And the Grand Vitara can drive fast! Well, of course, in comparison with the two Suzuki described above. All the same, the 2.4 liter engine no longer forces the driver to constantly drown the pedal to the floor. And the same as the SX4 automatic transmission gears are no longer so annoying with their slowness. The car itself is tightly knocked down, driver's. Rigid body (thanks to the wide pillars and fewer doorways!) Does not walk on actively overcome bumps. Despite the high center of gravity, the side rolls are small, but the suspension cannot be called oak - only moderately harsh. Longitudinal road waves do not throw up this car - it tightly presses against the roadway, without unloading the wheels and, therefore, without worsening grip with asphalt. I really liked the effective brakes, including, again, the lack of pronounced pecks when slowing down.
It is also quite quiet here - aerodynamic noise and the sound from the road are muffled, and the baritone of the engine only caresses the ear. And the acoustics of the stereo system is quite decent.
Suzuki Grand Vitara
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The Suzuki Grand Vitara power unit is placed longitudinally in front. The bridges are equipped with simple symmetrical differentials (D). For the distribution of traction between the wheels of the front and rear axles corresponds to an asymmetric limited slip differential (NSD). In a free state, it transmits 47% of torque to the front wheels, 53% to the rear wheels. In the event that any of the wheels begins to slip, the differential is partially blocked and provides traction through the wheels that are in the best conditions for traction.
The driver has the ability to influence the distribution of traction in the transmission. A toggle switch is located on the central panel, with which you can select one of the following modes: N (neutral in the transfer case), 4H, 4H Lock and 4L Lock. 4H - direct transmission is activated in the transfer case, 4H Lock - the differential is hard locked, 4L Lock - the differential is hard locked, the reduction row is activated in the transfer case. The power to the cardan shaft of the front axle drive is transmitted to the RK by a toothed chain.
to be expected
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Of course, the balance of power between the three models of one company at the off-road exit is already obvious in advance. SX4 - Grand Vitara - Jimny - so they will be arranged in ascending order of their off-road potential.
The fact that the first of these three models is just a SUV does not detract from its ability to confidently ride not only along a country road, but also along a more or less even meadow, move down to the river, overcoming shallow streams and gullies. In general, the SX4 city car instills in the driver, accustomed to ordinary passenger cars, that additional confidence that should not develop into hatred.
Grand Vitara can really do a lot. With a pontoon and locked “differ”, she confidently crawls along the clay slope in any direction. It seems that the patency of this car is limited mainly by tires. There would be “evil” tires of the M / T class and a small liftovka, and Vitara will wipe the nose of many “serious crooks” - mainly due to its compact size. Although then it will lose the charm of a normal city car without off-road costs! No, let's leave the configuration of this machine as it is. And we are pleased to state that the Grand Vitara is not just a compromise and a “golden mean”, it somehow magically absorbed both urban and off-road qualities without great sacrifices in favor of one side or another.
Jimny is just a song! Or a song. He's ready to ride across the furrow - he doesn't care! But the passage of a ford or viscous soil, where he, of course, well done, is not the main place for demonstrating his supernatural abilities. And they appear where you can admire its fantastic geometric cross-country ability, for example, when overcoming deep ditches that are replaced by a slope, moving through fallen trunks, passing rocky areas with a serious relief. And not only SX4 and Grand Vitara can't think of poking around here, but few of the "rogues" of other manufacturers would argue with him! And there is no need for him to leave the off-road on the asphalt - so, perhaps for a beer or for a service.
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| The results of geometric and weight measurements made by editorial experts in the conditions of an auto-polygon | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Jimny | Suzuki SX4 | Suzuki Grand Vitara 3dr | ||
| C | Clearance under the front axle in the center, mm | 200 | 160 | 190 |
| Clearance under the front axle in the shoulder area, mm | 230 | 170 | 205 | |
| Clearance under the rear axle in the center, mm | 190 | 180 | 230 | |
| Clearance under the rear axle in the shoulder area, mm | 280 | 320 | 270 | |
| D | Minimum clearance inside the base, mm | 255 | 170 | 220 |
| Clearance under the frame or side member, mm | 265 | 200 | 270 | |
| Clearance under the fuel tank, mm | 280 | 220 | 290 | |
| B1 | Cabin width in front, mm | 1240 | 1350 | 1430 |
| B2 | Rear cabin width, mm | 1230 | 1350 | 1390 |
| B3 | Trunk width min./max., mm | 920 | 1020/1120 | 1000/1150 |
| V | Useful trunk volume (5 pers.), l | 110 | 252 | 188 |
*R point (hip joint) to accelerator pedal
** The driver's seat is set to L1 = 950 mm from point R to the accelerator pedal, the rear seat is shifted all the way back
| Vehicle Specifications | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Jimny | Suzuki SX4 | Suzuki Grand Vitara 3dr | |
| MAIN CHARACTERISTICS | |||
| Length, mm | 3665 | 4150 | 4060 |
| Width, mm | 1600 | 1755 | 1810 |
| Height, mm | 1705 | 1605 | 1695 |
| Wheel base, mm | 2250 | 2500 | 2440 |
| Track front / rear, mm | 1355/1365 | 1500/1495 | 1540/1570 |
| Curb / full weight, kg | 1075/1420 | 1275/1685 | 1539/1890 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 135 | 170 | 170 |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s | 17,2 | 13,1 | 11,5 |
| Fuel consumption, l/100 km | |||
| urban cycle | 9,9 | 9,9 | 11,9 |
| country cycle | 6,6 | 6,2 | 8,0 |
| Mixed cycle | 7,8 | 7,6 | 9,4 |
| Turning diameter, m | 9,8 | 10,6 | 10,2 |
| Fuel/volume fuel tank, l | AI-95/40 | AI-95/45 | AI-95/55 |
| ENGINE | |||
| engine's type | Petrol | Petrol | Petrol |
| Location and number of cylinders | R4 | R4 | R4 |
| Working volume, cm 3 | 1328 | 1586 | 2393 |
| Power, kW / hp | 62,5/85 | 82/112 | 124/169 |
| at rpm | 6000 | 5600 | 6000 |
| Torque, Nm | 110 | 150 | 225 |
| at rpm | 4100 | 3800 | 3800 |
| TRANSMISSION | |||
| Transmission | A4 | A4 | A4 |
| Downshift | 1,320/2,643 | - | 1,000/1,970 |
| CHASSIS | |||
| Front suspension | Dependent, spring | independent, spring | independent, spring |
| rear suspension | Dependent, spring | Independent, torsion | independent, spring |
| Steering gear | screw nut | Rack | Rack |
| Brakes Front | Disc ventilated | Disc ventilated | Disc ventilated |
| Brakes Rear | drums | Disk | Disc ventilated |
| Active Safety Tools | ABS | ABS+EBD+ESP+BAF | ABS+EBD+ESP |
| Tire size* | 205/70R15 (26.3)* | 205/60R16 (25.7)* | 225/70R16 (28.4)* |
| MAINTENANCE COSTS | |||
| Estimated costs for the year and 20 thousand km, rub. | 114 320 | 116 360 | 139 490 |
| The calculation takes into account | |||
| The cost of the CASCO policy (experience from 7 years) **, rub. | 59 000 | 63 000 | 70 000 |
| Road tax in Moscow, rub. | 1 700 | 3 360 | 7 600 |
| Base cost of maintenance***, rub. | 8 400 | 6 200 | 8 200 |
| We are standing. first oil change***, rub. | 4 200 | 4 500 | 4 900 |
| Frequency of maintenance, thousand km | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Fuel costs for the combined cycle, rub. | 38 220 | 37 240 | 46 060 |
| WARRANTY TERMS | |||
| Duration of the guarantee, years/thous. km | 3/100 | 3/100 | 3/100 |
| CAR COST | |||
| Test equipment ****, rub. | 669 000 | 750 000 | 910 000 |
| Basic equipment****, rub. | 641 000 | 720 000 | 795 000 |
**Averaging based on data from two large insurance companies
*** Including consumables
**** At the time of preparation of the material, taking into account current discounts
| Expert assessments based on test results | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indicator | Max. score | Suzuki Jimny | Suzuki SX4 | Suzuki Grand Vitara 3dr |
| BODY | 25,0 | 11,2 | 15,2 | 14,8 |
| Driver's seat | 9,0 | 4,7 | 4,9 | 6,1 |
| Seat behind the driver | 7,0 | 4,0 | 5,4 | 4,3 |
| Trunk | 5,0 | 1,0 | 1,9 | 1,4 |
| Security | 4,0 | 1,5 | 3,0 | 3,0 |
| ERGONOMICS AND COMFORT | 25,0 | 16,0 | 18,4 | 18,3 |
| Governing bodies | 5,0 | 3,9 | 4,2 | 4,2 |
| Devices | 5,0 | 3,8 | 4,2 | 4,2 |
| Climate control | 4,0 | 2,4 | 2,9 | 2,9 |
| Interior materials | 1,0 | 0,5 | 0,7 | 0,7 |
| Light and visibility | 5,0 | 3,8 | 3,9 | 3,8 |
| Options | 5,0 | 1,6 | 2,5 | 2,5 |
| OFF-ROAD PERFORMANCE | 20,0 | 16,6 | 7,3 | 14,7 |
| gaps | 4,0 | 3,0 | 1,4 | 2,8 |
| corners | 5,0 | 5,0 | 1,6 | 3,5 |
| Articulation | 3,0 | 2,3 | 1,7 | 2,1 |
| Transmission | 4,0 | 3,3 | 0,9 | 3,5 |
| Security | 2,0 | 2,0 | 1,0 | 1,5 |
| wheels | 2,0 | 1,0 | 0,7 | 1,3 |
| EXPEDITIONAL QUALITIES | 20,0 | 14,0 | 15,1 | 15,0 |
| Controllability | 3,0 | 2,3 | 2,6 | 2,7 |
| Driving comfort | 3,0 | 1,6 | 2,5 | 2,6 |
| Accelerating dynamics | 3,0 | 2,1 | 2,5 | 2,7 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3,0 | 3,0 | 3,0 | 2,7 |
| Highway range | 2,0 | 1,0 | 1,0 | 1,0 |
| load capacity | 2,0 | 1,0 | 1,2 | 1,0 |
| Length unfolded. trunk | 2,0 | 1,0 | 1,3 | 1,1 |
| Spare wheel | 2,0 | 2,0 | 1,0 | 1,2 |
| EXPENSES | 10,0 | 9,6 | 9,3 | 9,0 |
| Price in a test package | 4,0 | 3,9 | 3,8 | 3,7 |
| Operating costs | 4,0 | 4,0 | 4,0 | 3,7 |
| Resale prospects | 2,0 | 1,7 | 1,5 | 1,6 |
| TOTAL | 100,0 | 67,4 | 65,3 | 71,8 |
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| Suzuki Jimny | Suzuki SX4 | Suzuki Grand Vitara 3dr | |
|---|---|---|---|
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|
| pros | Fantastic geometry. Unpretentiousness. compactness | An uncontested option in its class at a reasonable price. High quality materials | Good off-road performance. Tough motor. Precise controllability |
| Minuses | Rigid suspension. Low dynamic qualities. Tight second row seats and trunk | Thoughtful AKP. Not too protected nodes under the bottom. Lubricated reactions on the steering wheel | Large "dead zones" at the rear. The trunk is almost missing. Not very comfortable chairs |
| Verdict | Need an inexpensive and efficient way to get away from civilization? It's Jimny! | Balanced compact hatchback allows you to successfully drive on all types of roads | A full-fledged, very compact SUV, which also has normal passenger properties |
text: Vladimir SMIRNOV
photo: Roman TARASENKO
One side - compact crossover Suzuki SX4 is no longer a novelty, but the model is popular and in demand among buyers. On the other hand, in this class there is a massive renewal of competitors. What can Suzuki SX4 offer against their background, what are the pros and cons of the model? Let's figure it out together.
First Suzuki generation SX4 debuted in 2006 - a mixture of a hatchback (proportions and compactness of the body) and a crossover (clearance, all-wheel drive versions). Over time, the Suzuki SX4 received a couple of interesting versions: the sedan body, a twin under the FIAT brand. The car has become popular all over the world, including Ukraine. The Japanese decided to repeat this approach, and in 2013 they launched the second generation Suzuki SX4, and both models were produced in parallel for some time: the novelty was named Suzuki SX4 or S-Cross, depending on the market. At the beginning of 2016, the second generation SX4 was upgraded with a new front end, headlights and taillights, an improved multimedia system in the cabin, a 6-speed. "automatic" (instead of the variator before) and a 1.4 liter turbo engine 140 hp.
ModelSuzuki SX4 is a mixture of a hatchback and a crossover: the ground clearance is 180 mm, there are all-wheel drive versions. During the last update, the car has changed markedly in the front, plus there have been a number of changes in technology.
The article presents a car in the maximum version of the GLX with a 1.4 liter 140 hp engine, other versions will also be briefly noted - I will indicate separately in the text.
How does it ride?
The Suzuki SX4 test car is equipped with a 1.4-liter BOOSTERJET engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission - and it's a great combination for normal and slightly dynamic driving. The motor pulls well from the bottom (1.5 thousand) to the very top (5-6 thousand rpm), it has a phenomenally even character of traction without any dips in the specified range, it quickly responds to pressing the gas pedal. "Automatic" is also good - smooth, fast, imperceptible up and down shifts; does not resist sharp acceleration and kickdown; quick adaptation to the driving style of the driver. In a word, in matters of power, ease of traction control, automatic transmission operation - everything is fine.
But here's the catch: driving a Suzuki SX4 doesn't feel like a rush, even with an engine that can drive dynamically. Here, the Suzuki Vitara S crossover pleased with drive and acceleration, with it I sometimes wanted to “pull” from a traffic light. And in the Suzuki SX4, the 140-horsepower engine is not for “shooting from a traffic light”, but for “confidence and reserve under the right foot”. This crossover is made as a family, traditional in nature. And if so, then the requests are different ...
AppearanceSuzuki SX4 is devoid of aggression and sunk. I would say that here the bet is made on the signs of "solidity" that are typical for cars bigger size- for example, a huge grille with a chrome decor. Oval-stretched headlights hide modern linzovannaya LED optics (ordinary lamps only in direction indicators). Engine 1.4 lBOOSTERJETis good, but its capabilities are needed here only “in reserve”, and taking into account the natureSuzuki SX4 this reserve will be used extremely rarely. In this case, the difference with the 1.6 l (117 hp) engine is minimal: it is quite enough for daily driving. The automatic transmission pleases with soft and quick shifts with any of the engines.
Returning to the “family crossover” format, I will note the chassis, suspension, steering. First of all, chassis elastic: there is no frank rigidity, but the pits are not completely hidden either. At the same time, there is a large margin for the energy intensity of the suspension here, you can easily drive at a fairly high speed on a broken road. Yes, and on speed bumps, the car shudders with the rear less than other competitors. In a word, very good. However, new Renault Duster shows that the suspension can be softer without sacrificing power or roadworthiness, and the Hyundai Creta adds a quieter ride. After all, the Suzuki SX4 crossover is noisy: initially - there are questions about the soundproofing of the wheel arches, at a speed of about 100 km / h and above - aerodynamic noise is pretty noticeable. But there is a plus: a silent, assembled, “live” suspension of a test car with a mileage of 36 thousand km (as you know, 1 km of a test car = 2-3 km in real life).
The steering wheel is good stability in the "zero zone" and is filled with force in the turn, as if you are compressing a small spring. The car as a whole does not resist turns, although there are rolls. But when making a sharp turn on a broken road or pavers, the SX4 slightly "rearranges" the rear end, which is unpleasant. This appears only on an empty car, if you load the rear, then there is no such effect. And you can load a lot: for its class - the cabin is quite spacious front and rear, the trunk offers a volume of 430-440 liters in the standard version. And in general, the interior of the Suzuki SX4 at first glance seems simple, but it turns out to be good within its class.
Front panelSuzuki SX4 does not shine with an original design, but it pleases with a large insert made of soft plastic - a rarity in the class. The main attention here is attracted by an oval with an LCD display and a pair of ventilation deflectors. The display pleases with the picture quality. Also pay attention to the little things: the armrest can be moved forward and opens access to a hidden niche; the steering wheel pleases with a logical arrangement of buttons for controlling the audio system, “cruise”, telephone; concise instruments with a simple LCD display are quickly read; there is a 2-zone climate control. In so many little thingsSuzuki SX4 turns out to be better than relativeSuzuki Vitara.
The last mention is not accidental, since both cars are built on the same platform. But the Suzuki SX4 model has an increased wheelbase (2.6 m versus 2.5 m for the Vitara model), which made it possible to provide additional legroom and a more traditional fit: for its class and dimensions, the back is spacious and comfortable. In addition, the maximum version has a rear armrest and backrest angle adjustment: again, this is a plus over the Vitara model with its usual vertical rear row of seats. That's only if the armrest is an unconditional and obvious plus, then adjusting the angle of the backrest in this case is a “thing about nothing”: only two positions, the range of angle change is too small - the “reclining” position cannot be obtained here.
Nominally, changing the angle of the backrest allows you to increase the trunk: 440 liters are promised against 430 liters in the standard position. However, the minimum figure (430 l) is still a good indicator for this class. Plus a couple more pleasant things: two-level floor and side niches-pockets. Separately, it is worth noting the trunk shelf, which opens from two sides: traditionally when opening the trunk lid and, additionally, it is possible to open the shelf from the back of the rear seat - it is convenient to get a change from the trunk right on the road.
The front is comfortable, and the back is spacious, as for this class. There is an armrest and the ability to change the angle of the backrest, but in a small range. There are no complaints about the trunk at all: a rather large, two-level floor, niche pockets on the sidewalls. A separate mention deserves a double-sided shelf, which leans out of the passenger compartment and gives access to the trunk, this is extremely rare, but it's a pity - a really useful item that is easy to implement. By the way, taking into account the mileage of the test car to the cabin, there are comments: the door cards creak - a little, but all four.
Summing up the interim results: the Suzuki SX4 crossover is unlikely to charm with driving performance and interior trim, but it is good in “requests for real life” - the behavior of the engine and automatic transmission, the energy intensity of the suspension, the spaciousness and comfort of the cabin, the well-thought-out trunk.
Is there any innovation?
If you have read the material about, then you will not find anything new for yourself here: load-bearing body, independent suspension front and semi-rear, front or all-wheel drive, 5-speed. Manual or 6-speed. automatic transmission. For the Suzuki SX4 model in Ukraine, two engines are offered, both gasoline. Firstly, the M16A engine: a volume of 1.6 liters, four cylinders, a VVT system for changing the valve timing. Secondly, the K14C engine of the BOOSTERJET series: 1.4 liter volume, four cylinders, direct fuel injection plus a turbine. It is this motor and 6-tbsp. Automatic transmission instead of a CVT-variator became the main technical innovations with the last update of the model in 2016.
Rest technological features are already known. So, all-wheel drive ALL GRIP 4WD offers a selector to select one of the four driving modes: AUTO - standard, automatic redistribution of torque; SPORT - sporty, more traction is given to the rear wheels, "automatic" uses downshifts; SNOW - on rear wheels transmits more traction, four-wheel drive works faster than usual, but the reactions to pressing the gas pedal are softened to avoid slipping in the snow; LOCK - rigid fixation of the 50/50 torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. A couple of nuances: the LOCK mode will turn on only after the preliminary selection of SNOW; the activation of each mode is shown on the display between the speedometer and tachometer.
In addition, I note a major touchscreen in the cabin: audio system control is assembled here, the ability to connect a telephone, etc. There is voice control for some functions (telephone, audio system), but the list of processed phrases is frankly small. Also on this display is displayed a picture from the rear view camera with auxiliary lines-tips. In general, this is the minimum standard set, what do you expect from such a system. However, Suzuki is remembered for a very detailed, beautiful, juicy picture on the display.
All-wheel drive systemALL GRIP 4 WDallows not only to control the distribution of torque between the axles, but also to slightly change the character of the car. ModeLOCK (replacement of the central differential lock) is connected with a separate button and only after selecting the modeSNOW. ATthe selected modes are displayed on the instrument panel display, where it is also “tied” on-board computer. Since we are talking about cross-country ability: the clearance is 180 mm, but the “lip” of the bumper causes concern in front, and the transverse arrangement of the muffler does not please the rear. As a result, if we are talking about slippery off-road (snow, ice, mud) -Suzuki SX4 is good, but if we talk about relief off-road (stones, slopes) - you need to be careful.
It's a pity, but this is where the high-tech delights for Ukraine end. Why say for Ukraine? Because in some countries Suzuki SX4 offers a lot of interesting technologies. For example, a 1.6-liter turbodiesel or a 3-cylinder liter gasoline turbo engine (which in Europe replaced the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter 117-horsepower engine). I know that many will prefer the “time-tested aspirated” and therefore it is in Ukraine, but in this section we are talking about a car from the point of view of advanced technologies. Also, the Suzuki SX4 in Ukrainian versions did not receive active cruise control and an autonomous emergency braking system (if we talk about technologies), in addition, the model did not receive a panoramic glass sunroof and leather interior (if we talk about comfort and equipment).
A couple of photos that hint at the presence of active (radar) cruise control and autonomous emergency braking - these are the two points that I consider the biggest omission in terms of technologySuzuki SX4 who did not make it to Ukraine. Let them be offered only for the maximum versions, albeit for "expensive", but in the classSuzuki SX4 such technologies are still rare - this is a potential "zest" and an advantage over competitors.
Prices and competitors
The Suzuki SX4 car is available in Ukraine with two motors, manual or automatic transmission, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, in two trim levels (GL or GLX), a total of six options.
The minimum version is a 1.6 liter engine (117 hp), front-wheel drive, Manual transmission, GL equipment: air conditioning, power windows, electric and heated mirrors, on-board computer, cruise control, ESP system, seven airbags, conventional audio system, steering wheel with buttons, heated front seats, front armrest. Such a car is estimated at 469 thousand UAH. or a little more than $18 thousand. A similar version with an "automatic" will cost 511 thousand UAH. or about $ 19.5 thousand. All-wheel drive with manual transmission in the GL configuration is 515 thousand UAH. (a little less than $ 20 thousand), and with automatic transmission - 552 thousand UAH. or $21.3 thousand
The maximum version of the GLX adds the following to the package: 2-zone “climate”, LED headlights, light and rain sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, improved audio system (6 speakers and Bluetooth), adjustable rear seat backs and rear armrest, silver trim on the sides of the doors and roof rails. Also, the GLX version automatically means 6-speed. "machine". Such a car with a 1.6 liter 117 hp engine. and front-wheel drive is estimated at UAH 582,000 or almost $22,500. BOOSTERJET in GLX version, additionally with ALL GRIP all-wheel drive, rear-view camera and LCD touch screen (car as in the article); price - 690 thousand UAH. or $26.5 thousand.
The car in the cabin - in the basic configurationGL: conventional headlights with spaced blocks for low / high beams, steel rims with caps, a simpler ventilation control unit, a traditional radio with buttons. But otherwise - an excellent “sufficient” level: heated seats and an armrest in front, there is a “cruise” with steering wheel controls, the trunk still offers a comfortable two-level floor. And the 1.6-liter engine is quite “sufficient”: at the end of 2017, it accounted for 89% of sales, even taking into account the large number of versions tied to the 1.6-liter engine, this figure is impressive. Maximum version 1.4 l 140 hpGLX(as a test car) took only 11% in the sales rangeSuzuki SX4, after all, for $26.5-27 thousand, you can look towards higher-class cars. Although the proportion of versions with all-wheel drive is unexpectedly high - 37%. Indirectly, this indicates the choice and demands of buyers.Suzuki SX4: powerful engine and expensive version - "no", practicality and all-wheel drive - "yes".
And now, with this approach, we look at competitors. Firstly, an expensive test version of the Suzuki SX4 for $ 27 thousand: here the competitors can be called the initial-middle versions. KIA Sportage- let them lose in some points of equipment, but they offer large dimensions, and in fact we often choose “by size”. Secondly, European compact crossovers, like the Citroen C3 Aircross (I'll tell you soon): they are interesting in details, but I can't offer all-wheel drive. Plus, or rather "minus", they are more cramped in the cabin (Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur), or spacious but not cheap (Citroen C3 Aircross). Finally, the third is the most important competitors for the Suzuki SX4: new, Chery Tiggo 7. The first two lack affordable all-wheel drive versions, and in some details they are inferior to the Suzuki SX4: for example, Hyundai Creta offers only a small multimedia system display, no navigation, and new Renault Duster lacks options with automatic transmission. Related crossover Suzuki Vitara is one to one similar to the Suzuki SX4 in terms of available options and the price fork, but here everyone chooses what he likes more: the youthful, perky Vitara model or the more family-friendly, spacious, well-thought-out Suzuki SX4 crossover.
Primary and intermediate versionsSuzuki SX4 with a price of $18-23 thousand turn out to be good choice against the backdrop of competitors in the segmentB-WITH-SUV. But an expensive crossoverSuzuki SX4 behind$ 27 thousand enter the territory of larger, adult modelsC— D— SUV, where requests for a car are initially higher and competitors are more dangerous.
Maintenance cost
The fuel consumption of a test car with a 1.4 liter engine (140 hp) in the city is 9-10 liters per 100 km, and on weekends, with empty roads, you can meet the minimum 7.5-8 liters. In traffic jams and / or a dynamic driving style, urban consumption rises to 11 liters per 100 kilometers. On the highway at a speed of 80-90 km / h, the car consumes about 5 liters of fuel, at a speed of 110-120 km / h - the consumption increases to 6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. On a car with a 1.6 liter engine (117 hp), I only went to the dealer for review, so I do not have my own observations on fuel consumption. But there are observations of one of the readers of the site: the consumption in the city is 9 liters per 100 km, with empty roads, without traffic jams, you can get a minimum of about 7.5-8 liters per 100 km. On the highway at a speed of 80-90 km / h, the consumption is 6 liters per 100 km, at a speed of 110-120 km / h - about 7-7.5 liters per 100 km of track.
The warranty for both versions of the car is identical: three years or 100 thousand kilometers. And the prices for maintenance are not too different: for the version with a 1.4 liter engine (140 hp) - from 2-2.1 thousand UAH. (the easiest service) up to about 7 thousand UAH. (the most extensive service); for the 1.6 liter version (117 hp) - from 2.4 thousand UAH to 6-7 thousand UAH. But the frequency of maintenance is different: a 1.4-liter engine requires maintenance every 10 thousand km, and a 1.6-liter engine requires maintenance every 15 thousand km. As a result, with a run of up to 90-100 thousand km, a car with a 1.6-liter engine will require 22-24 thousand UAH for maintenance (the exact figure depends on the combination of manual transmission / automatic transmission and front / four-wheel drive), at the same time, a car with an engine 1 .4 liters will require about 33 thousand UAH.
Data on maintenance prices are given for one of the Kiev dealers of the brand and may differ slightly depending on the region, city, selected dealer. All prices are as of May, excluding additional discounts and promotions that apply when buying a car or servicing it.
Eventually
The Suzuki SX4 test car is a good example of what the model has to offer. But this is a bad example of what buyers choose: for $ 25-30 thousand, an ordinary Ukrainian will look in the direction of more large crossover, albeit in a poorer configuration.
But when we talk about the Suzuki SX4 for “$20,000 plus/minus”, everything becomes much better: there are few competitors and against their background the Suzuki SX4 turns out to be one of the most balanced offerings in the class (if not the most balanced in general): a wide choice of versions , sufficient equipment, not critical comments on the ride. There is a proverb: “be simpler and people will be drawn to you”. In the camp of compact Suzuki crossovers The SX4 is a great example of this approach.
pros:
In the initial-middle versions - a very strong offer in the class of compact crossovers
Spacious and comfortable interior, capacious and thoughtful trunk, energy-intensive suspension
It is possible to combine manual / automatic transmission and front / all-wheel drive at your request
Minuses:
- No diesel, no high-tech equipment, no bright spots in the character
Ultimate SX4 enters higher-end crossover territory where it's hard to compete
SpecificationsSuzuki SX4 GLX 1 , 4 lBOOSTERJET ALL GRIP 4 WD6automatic transmission
Body - compact crossover; 5 seats
Dimensions - 4.300 x 1.785 x 1.585 m
Wheelbase - 2.6 m
Clearance - 180 mm
Trunk - from 430 liters (5 seats) to 1,269 liters (2 seats)
Load capacity - 465 kg
Minimum curb weight - 1,260 kg
Motor - gasoline, turbo, R4; 1.4 l
Power - 140 hp at 5,500 rpm
Two crossovers, both Japanese, left the assembly line of Suzuki factories. Identical engines, similar dimensions and specifications. It would seem, what is there to choose? But there are nuances, serious differences that, with all the similarities, make the cars completely different. Like Yin and Yang, sun and moon, man and woman. And now we will reveal these secrets to you.
Suzuki Vitara - all you need to know in a nutshell
When Suzuki began producing cars in the fifties of the last century, not only throughout Southeast Asia, but also in Japan, the state of the roads was deplorable. Therefore, the emphasis was placed on SUVs. Those that citizens of a post-war country could afford, that is, very simple and cheap. So the company has become one of the world's leading specialists in all-wheel drive and economy.
The first Vitara appeared in 1988 and was positioned as a small SUV, but with a claim to design and comfort. In the second generation, the prefix "Grand" was added to the model name and they took a serious step from off-road to city streets.
Yes, Suzuki was making crossovers before it was mainstream. Now every self-respecting brand has in its lineup from one to three crossovers. And in those days Japanese manufacturer actually created new class cars from scratch. How successful the model turned out to be can be judged by the number of brands that were not afraid to hang their nameplate on it. At different times in different countries, the Suzuki Vitara was sold under the names:
- Mazda Proceed Levante
- Santana 300/350
- Daewoo Vitara
- Chevrolet tracker
- Geo Tracker
- GMC Tracker
- Pontiac Sunrunner
- Asuna Sunrunner
Now Suzuki Vitara is a compact SUV, in the back of the "five-door crossover" type. The fourth generation of the model. The production has been worked out to the smallest detail, the technologies have been tested by time.
Suzuki CX4 - all the most important, briefly
The model was born from the mutual love of the Japanese Suzuki and the Italian Fiat. Asians had a hard time in the conservative European market. Therefore, they decided to contact the local old-timers. The design was entrusted to the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro. Maitre, who has been defining what is “beautiful” in the auto industry since the forties of the last century. It was he who came up with the design of the DeLorean DMC-12 - the "flying" car from the movie "Back to the Future". And the very first Volkswagen Golf he too. And a Ford Mustang. And almost all Alfa Romeos. As well as Nikon cameras, Beretta weapons and Ducati motorcycles.
The first version of the SX4 rolled off the assembly line in 2006. For a long time, the manufacturer could not decide on the class - crossovers, and sedans, and compact cars, and combi appeared. They stopped only in 2013, choosing the “mini-SUV” class and the “five-door compact crossover” body. The last update of the model is quite recently, last year. A facelift was carried out and a number of technological solutions were added. The maximum safety rating is "five stars" from Euro NCAP.
What will you get anyway
Whichever Suzuki you choose, in any case, you will have:
- Four-wheel drive is one of the best in the world. You choose the mode, the electronics do the rest. Good electronics. rear axle connects right on the go, there is even a full locking center differential.
- Branded 1.6-liter gasoline 16-valve aspirated with variable valve timing. So economical that you start to forget the addresses of gas stations. Of course, you can’t squeeze much out of it, but it’s extremely difficult to overtake Suzuki. "Hundred" is gaining a little more than 11 seconds, the speedometer needle brings to 170.
- Large, for its class, place on back seat. Even two tall men won't have to tuck their legs in. Three will not be very happy, but they will fit. And the children will not have any problems with the place at all, even a dog can be put with them.
- Good visibility from the driver's seat. Rear glass not lowered or cut, there are very few blind spots, you look down on the road.
- The total carrying capacity (driver + passengers + cargo) is around 650 kilograms. Yes, you heard right. If you do not take passengers, then this small Suzuki can be loaded with as much as half a ton.
- Japanese build quality. Of course, in this class it is difficult to demand wood and leather. But the parts are tightly fitted to each other, nothing creaks or rubs anywhere.
- most low price on the market for a crossover with all-wheel drive and even from Japan.
- Flexible picking system. No one will force you to pay for unnecessary benefits. It can be all-wheel drive, it can be front-wheel drive. There are automatic and manual. Choose from any combination.
What is the difference
Style
SX4 S-Cross - beautiful from birth, the best designer in the world worked on it. But, with Vitara, it opens up scope for creativity. Its manufacturer has completely entrusted its customers - as many as 14 different configurations and 14 colors are offered. Moreover, you can choose not only the exterior, but also the interior. If you want, everything will be a strict combination of black and gray. Not? A riot of colors please - the details of the front panel in the color "Atlantic Pearl Turquoise Metallic". Subtle creative natures will have a place to roam - even white is presented in two shades, “Cool White Pearl” and “Superior White”.
This is probably why the CX4 is more often bought by the older generation, and Vitara by young people.
Class difference
If you put the cars next to each other, you will immediately understand what we are talking about. Suzuki Vitara is a Compact SUV, "compact SUV". And the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross - mini SUV, "mini-SUV", is one step lower. In fact, it was Suzuki who created both classes, starting to produce such cars ten years ahead of other manufacturers. “Compact” ones are needed for those people who want more sports, are ready to go on a trip even now, but more often drive on urban asphalt. And “Mini” is for those who like this same asphalt more, but sometimes you have to travel out of town. The difference in approach is simply huge, although the differences are not significant.
If you spend every weekend fishing, it is better to take Vitara. If you go out of town rarely and reluctantly, but since you left, you can climb into the very wilderness - take the CX4.
Storm and calm
Cars give completely different emotions. If you want the car to surprise you, you need to take Vitara. And if you need rigor and clarity, full compliance with the declared parameters - your choice is SX4 S-Cross. The first one will take you to such a hill, where you did not even think to get out. The second one will definitely pull you out of that ravine. This difference is felt as soon as you get behind the wheel. You yourself will understand everything when you order a test drive in Kharkov, from the official representative of Suzuki, the TECHNIK-CENTER company.
During the creation of the SX4, Suzuki was "friends" with Fiat, so don't be surprised by the Fiat turbodiesels under the hood of these cars, or other smaller borrowings. And don't be shocked by the presence of the "twin" Fiat Sedici, suspiciously similar to the SX4: the companies worked together on the model, and the design was handled by Giugiaro himself.
Don't be scared Hungarian assembly: The quality of cars remains Japanese regardless of the country of assembly. It may not be as high as Toyota's, but there is definitely something to brag about.
True, the machine itself is made cheap. In every sense - both in terms of the quality of materials and the thoroughness of handling, comfort and ergonomics. Well, as for the cost of operation, including.
Now the oldest cars of this model have crossed the ten-year age threshold, but the bulk are just approaching it: most cars were sold after 2008. Let's see how a car of this age and this class endures our roads, it's no secret that small cars are made worse and simpler than large and expensive ones.
By the way, in addition to Hungary, where Suzuki has its own factory, which produced most of the SX4 for Russian market, SX4 was also produced in Japan, India, Indonesia and China.
Body
The bodies of the five-door "off-road" SX4 hold up well in general. The main drawback noted is a relatively thin and weak layer of paint, prone to chipping and easily peeling off in places of damage. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers are good at putting paint on galvanized metal, and Suzuki had little experience in this matter. However, these are all trifles, and in general, it was thanks to galvanization that this generation of cars almost ceased to suffer from age-related corrosion, which was what the previous models were “famous for”.
In off-road cars, the sills and arches are well protected with plastic lining, and if the body was looked after a little, preventing pitting from spreading, washing away dirt from under the lining and sills and sometimes updating the anticorrosive, then the body keeps no worse than European Volkswagen and Volvo. The places of damage to the paintwork on the doors and fenders are practically not prone to corrosion, and the hood and windshield frame are kept, albeit worse, but slightly.
Traditionally at risk backdoor. Especially - on cars with a simple color, and the "metallic" is a little more reliable. The places of damage on the fifth door are standard: the lower rolling and the line of contact between the lens hood and the rear lights with metal.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2009–14 From the bottom of the car, everything is a little more complicated. Under the plastic lockers, the metal is covered only with paint and really doesn’t like the accumulation of dirt that cars often suffer off-road. They need to flush everything possible locations soil accumulations, especially in thresholds and arches.
The anticorrosive layer on the bottom is also not a record one, but it is often scratched. When buying, it is worth checking both the condition of the coating on the bottom, and the condition of the bumper mounts and plastic thresholds. They break off regularly, and despite the relatively low price tag for original parts, they are very reluctant to change.
Front wing
original price
6 786 rubles
Of the troubles that have a bad effect on the condition of the body as a whole, we note the possible leakage of the railing mounts on the roof and the plugs in the bottom. The latter are often damaged, which leads to the accumulation of water in a thin layer of noise insulation on the bottom of the car. Fortunately, this nuisance is rare, and it is easy to check its existence. Moreover, it is necessary to check: cars with this defect may have through corrosion bottoms at the driver's feet and numerous traces of seam corrosion from the inside.
With a not very reliable fuel pump, there is no hatch in the cabin to access it and replace it. Of course, no one is in a hurry to remove the tank, so the hole is simply cut out with a crown or grinder (the choice of tool depends on the desire of the barbarians in the car service). It is clear that the state of the body in the area of the new hatch is very different. Rarely does anyone immediately care about the condition of the seam, and in this area, due to the accumulation of dirt on top of the gas tank and poor ventilation, it is usually quite humid.
The sheet metal front subframe is thin and rusts quickly and hard. The anticorrosive subframe needs to be updated regularly, but most of the owners neglect this operation. After a run of one and a half to two hundred thousand kilometers, you need to check carefully, and not only from the bottom, but also from above, where moisture accumulates.
Spars near the beam attachment rear suspension and the beam itself will also require close attention. Here you can often find massive surface corrosion.
Often, instead of clips for fastening thresholds and bumpers, you can find ordinary screws. This is especially true for cars from the outback and after careless operation. This is affected by the worst availability of spare parts and, again, the budget model and its maintenance. Unfortunately, many perceive the car as a competitor to the Niva and Zhiguli and treat Suzuki accordingly.
Windshield
original price
20 004 rubles
At fog lights glass cracks easily from temperature fluctuations and flying stones. Well, overwritten headlights and weak windshields- a common thing for any budget cars.
After hundreds of thousands of runs, you usually already have something to put your hands on. Smokers often have scratches on the side windows: the poor sealing material collects small pebbles, and the glass itself is soft here.
Relatively thin and fragile bumpers are definitely not suitable for off-road, but the price of the bumper base is low. The main thing is not to lose the grilles and moldings.
The driver's door limiter crackles after 60-80 thousand mileage, but the door keeps. But the windows are often unscrewed, which is why the front windows do not rise to the end. It is not difficult to fix them: you just need to tighten a couple of mounting bolts onto the latch. But the doors will have to be disassembled, which often results in breakage of fragile plastic.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2009–14 The wiper trapezoid may bend, after which you will need to re-position the levers. But it rarely turns sour, and mostly for those whose car costs more than it drives.
Salon
The interior of the car is simple and poor. Luckily, the plastic on the dash and door cards hold up well, but the seats, floor carpet, and plastic giblets don't hold up as well. The interior of the car rumbles at least slightly. And it’s good that we mainly have post-styling cars: the pre-styling interior is made worse and ages faster.
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Pictured: Suzuki SX4 interior "2006–10
Somewhere more, somewhere less, depending on the year and condition, the glove box mount, air conditioning ducts, armrest box and center console lining rumble. And the windows are still banging on the doors. Fortunately, all this is not heard at speed: tires and the engine muffle the noise, and if the car is all-wheel drive, then the transmission also helps them. But if suddenly the asphalt is smooth and the tires are quiet, then get ready to listen to these sounds.
True, after 130 km / h everything drowns out the noise of the wind: the door seals are not very successful, the windows are thin, and the mirrors are large. And the music can't drown it out, it's weak here.
The seats and steering wheel do not hide the mileage, and after 60-80 thousand mileage, the plastic looks already slightly greasy, and the seats begin to lose shape. Closer to two hundred thousand mileage, the seat frame can capitulate. If the driver weighs more than 100 kilograms, the frame can even be broken, but more often something just starts to creak inside, and the microlift stops working.
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Pictured: Suzuki SX4 interior "2009–14
Well-groomed specimens that know the charms of dry cleaning and even additional sound insulation are very rare. The bulk of cars with a mileage of more than a hundred thousand flaunt a very worn interior, which can be considered a serious drawback. So the year and mileage (and also the owner and place of operation) are very important here.
But with the fact that drivers above 170 cm cannot find a good fit, they will have to put up with a car of any age. Even if you can put an uncomfortable seat with a short cushion in such a way that it will be convenient to steer and press the pedals (which is difficult to do in the absence of a normal steering wheel adjustment), then the visibility will turn out to be completely “none”. Behind the side pillars with a "triangle" KamAZ will easily hide, and the edge of the hood will not be visible behind the inflated front panel.
Electrician
Fortunately, everything is reliable here, and basically only the generator fails. Either it is located unsuccessfully, or competitors from Mitsubishi, whose assembly is installed most often, failed, but its bearings wedge. It is useless and dangerous to lubricate bearings from the outside by spraying: fires occur from excess lubricant. It's good that on cars with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine, changing the generator is easy and convenient.
On machines before restyling, starter failures and high voltage wires, but this is more likely due to age. The wires just need to be changed sometimes, and the starter is afraid of dirt.
Of course, some malfunctions happen, but they are not regular. Unless the multimedia system sins with a weak CD drive and amplifier.
Brakes, suspension and steering
The brake system for such a small car is quite serious and it works reliably. The resource of pads and discs is more than sufficient, so cars with manual transmission usually still have native discs for hundreds of thousands. Even with the "automatic" disk resource is still enough for 60-80 thousand kilometers. The pads are not so durable, but they nurse their 30-50 thousand.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2009–14 The calipers are solid, the GTZ is solid, the ABS works well and its sensors are well protected. The rear drums are generally almost eternal. The main thing is to check that they are still slowing down: sometimes the mechanism wedges due to corrosion and wear.
The suspension of the car is not as strong as we would like. The resource of the wheel bearings, especially the rear ones, turned out to be surprisingly small. After 60,000 miles, some cars already start to hum a little, although most cars will require bearing replacement at runs twice as long. True, and this is not a very outstanding result, especially considering that the SX4 does not have low-profile and wide tires and heavy-duty motors.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2009–14 Behind is a simple and reliable beam. Among its shortcomings, only a tendency to corrosion of the central part can be noted.
Front - MacPherson strut suspension. She has a relatively weak design of the lever: it is easy to bend, and the ball joint does not change separately. On non-original TRW arms, the bearing can be changed separately, but replacement ball joints do not always fit older arms.
Front shock absorber
original price
6 030 rubles
The shock absorbers can withstand much more than 100 thousand mileage, and at 200 they often cost the original ones (of course, if the car was not overloaded and driven on the ground), but the front strut supports sag. Often a sour bearing needs to be replaced, and it is better to change it as soon as it starts to creak. Otherwise, increased wear on the shock absorber rod seals can lead to oil leakage.
Front springs on cross-country machines lose their top coils.
The steering is quite reliable. The problem of cars before restyling - a knocking rail - has become less common on restyled cars. Moreover, if the knock on pre-styling could begin after 30-40 thousand mileage, then the post-styling SX4 rail can withstand three times more.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2006–10 Usually the problem lies in the materials of the bushings of the rail itself and its fastening. It is recommended to repair immediately, without waiting for the knock to break the gear train. It is advisable to check the rail seals more often, and renew the lubricant at every second MOT.
The low resource of rail tips should not be considered a big problem: they do not break unexpectedly, so it is enough to periodically monitor their condition.
EUR very poorly tolerates "bathing" and washing engine compartment. Power connectors lose their tightness with age, so you can get melted contacts or just system failures.
Pictured: Suzuki SX4" 2006–10 Of course, the SX4 is nothing like Land Rover Discovery or Mercedes-Benz G-class. This crossover is not so prestigious, comfortable or beautiful (although not everyone likes the Gelik outwardly either). But it is inexpensive and rarely breaks. True, we have not yet said anything about the engines and gearboxes of this "Japanese", but.
➖ Rigid suspension
➖ Noise isolation
pros
➕ High level of security
➕ Roomy trunk
➕ Economy
Advantages and disadvantages of Suzuki CX4 2018-2019 in a new body identified based on reviews real owners. More detailed pros and cons of the Suzuki SX4 II with mechanics, automatic and CVT, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive 4x4 can be found in the stories below.
Owner reviews
Here are the highlights of my Suzuki SX4:
1) Fantastic consumption of 6.7 l / 100 km in summer in a million-plus city in traffic jams, in winter - within 8 with heating.
2) Comfortable fit - SX4 new is lower than most SUVs in terms of clearance, you don’t have to jump into it, your trousers don’t get dirty, at the same time it’s not a puzoterka and copes with our uncleaned and unrepaired roads.
3) Security: 7 airbags and a stability control system already in the database, 5 points in Euro NCAP, ESP intervened more than once in time when you are about to be thrown out of the rut that we have everywhere both in winter and summer.
4) Large lounge and the largest trunk in the class (430 l) with not large dimensions, moved to a new apartment, so without ordering a gazelle — I moved everything in it.
But there are also a couple of shortcomings:
1) Not enough heated windshield.
2) The salon heats up longer than on a Zhiguli, I didn’t own other foreign cars, I don’t know.
Radmir Sirazdinov, drives Suzuki SX4 1.6 (120 HP) CVT 2014
Video review
Suzuki SX4 new with a CVT just captivated me ... There are no frills in the car, but all the declared options are in order and quite satisfactory. The biggest difference is the low fuel consumption.
I drove from Murmansk to Petrozavodsk with a consumption of 5.3 liters per hundred. At the same time, I tried to drive 110 km / h on cruise control on sections with a good road ... What will happen next is unknown, but for a year and a half of operation there were no problems at all. I am very glad.
Sergey Podgorny, drives Suzuki CX4 1.6 (120 hp) CVT 2014
Great car! Acquired Suzuki CX-4 New in October 2014. Drove 10,000 km - no complaints. Consumption is striking: 4.9 — 5.2 outside the city, in the city — 6.5. Mixed 5.9 - 6.0 liters. 95th gasoline is preferable, as the dynamics and consumption are excellent. It is possible and 92nd gasoline. The dynamics are a little worse.
One small minus - when driving on rough roads (not fast), the rear shock absorbers are harsh. The machine is very good. I put it next to Qashqai - the difference in dimensions is 5 and 8 centimeters (height and length). The fully packed machine costs 300,000 rubles less than the standard Qashqai!
The owner drives a Suzuki SX4 1.6 (120 HP) MT 2014.
Where can I buy?
At first, the overall impression was positive compared to the previous model, BUT! Faced a problem that crosses out all the advantages of this model of 2014 release.
What we managed to pay attention to in a short driving time: the seat backs fold comfortably flush with the trunk floor, there is a USB input for listening to music, there are more airbags, a larger trunk, a side stand front glass decreased — more comfortable and better view!
A very sensitive gas pedal, after Suzuki SX4 in 2006 I had to get used to it - several times the car stalled in traffic jams, annoying. The suspension is very stiff, any lying policeman at a speed of more than 5 km / h - well, it is very sensitively overcome.
And now about the problem more seriously: I bought a car in early October 2014, by which time more than one hundred cars of this model had already been sold. October 14 - a hooligan broke the right front side glass(what goes down).
Through long calls 5 official dealers in Moscow, which sell this model, it turned out that in all of Moscow there is NOT A SINGLE glass for the car of my model, and even in the warehouse of the official representative of Suzuki there is no glass! Not at all in Russia! (2 weeks waiting for a replacement).
Irina drives Suzuki SX4 1.6 (120 hp) on 2014 mechanics
The car is not on their own money - the trough is cheap, but it costs big bucks. About cheapness: rear bumper- solid bullshit and plywood. Does not go to any comparison with the Daewoo Sense.
The torpedo is already creaking in full, although the mileage is only 2,000 km. Plastic is bullshit! So far, all the joys of two-week ownership of this unit, although the same Daewoo Sens pleases me more after 11 years of operation than this expensive trough!
Of the merits this car only stability, good suspension work and acceptable fuel consumption (depending on driving style) can be noted.
Review of Suzuki SX4 1.6 (120 hp) on 2015 CVT
Changed this year 5-year-old SX4 to a new one. On the track immediately became more fun to ride. In general, a lot of modern and useful options have been added. More economical than the old one, about a liter in the city. When driving, mostly in traffic jams, I fit into 11 liters per hundred (calculated by refueling), and the computer lies less here - the error is up to 5%, unlike 15% for the old one.
But the off-road qualities have deteriorated a little, the geometric cross is not enough. After installing the steel protection of the motor and the clutch, the ground clearance became less than 15 cm. I would not advise anyone to meddle in a rut.
Of the advantages, I note a powerful motor for a relatively light body. In the presence of a modern interior and nice options. Excellent LED light. Good trunk, lots of niches and pockets in the cabin.
The disadvantages include a seat that is not very comfortable for a high landing, while for a low landing there is not enough reach for the steering wheel. An extended warranty results in significant costs for additional maintenance every 5,000 km.
Review of Suzuki SX4 1.4 (140 hp) automatic transmission with all-wheel drive 2016
The car is good! For 6,000 km, I added a little fluid to the washer. In addition, at first the machine was frightening after the manual transmission, but I was already used to it. At first it seemed that the automatic transmission was terribly slow, but people who drive automatic transmissions practically “since childhood” open their mouths in surprise: the automatic transmission, they say, is very frisky.
Now the main thing: interior. Compared to the previous car, the interior is very spacious. The trunk is no less than in the Roomster, the stove is much cooler, it immediately drives heat, without warming up 20 km.
Visibility due to the racks is not very good, it makes you constantly turn your head and torso, but, again, there is experience. The motor is crazy! It buzzes loudly (on acceleration), eats criminally little, even compared to Skoda.
The family has already gone on a small "dalnyak" - 1,500 kilometers. Well, we're happy. We drove at night, the wife and son settled down to take a nap very well, because there is a lot of space in the cabin, that is, it allows passengers to sleep.
In general, the car is still very, very satisfied. So far I've seen only one machine like mine. The suspension is…loud but powerful, meaning it rumbles and the car rides very smoothly. Apparently, the wheels also play a role here, since the radius is still larger than in Skoda. Overall, I don't regret the purchase.
Review of Suzuki SX4 1.6 (117 hp) with automatic 2017