Share

The Car Diaries: Suzuki SX4

accreditation
Tuesday

You have to see this car!

Ladies, I present the Suzuki SX4. She's sleek, she's zippy (that word again!), she's boxy – but in a cool, retro way... she's like the Swift's bigger sister. She moves like an extension of myself – I'm still thinking of turning left and then I'm already in the next lane!

As you can probably tell, I'm fast becoming a big Suzuki fan. The SX4 made me miss the Swift, because the – new motoring word – fascia (control on steering wheel, leather steering wheel, radio, aircon vents etc.) looks the same. Also, it's burnt orange so it goes with my hair. I'm looking forward to a week of having the ultimate fashion accessory.

Wednesday

Charles reckons the SX4 is a chick car. I think he’s full of shit.

Thursday

Noticed that the SX4 isn't much bigger than a normal sedan, although it creates the illusion of space by being higher off the ground. That said, we did manage to fit in all the gear we required for a one-day film shoot (this included a whole bunch of lights, camera stands and other crap.)

P.S. Charles was right. It is a chick car. Don't know why, but there's something girly about it.

Saturday

Zipped around town a bit, listening to alternative Country on the CD player. Nice sound system. The engine is willing and able and responds eagerly when you put your foot down. If you want the exact acceleration speed though, visit Wheels24. I found it sits nicely on the road, although it is much higher off the ground than the Swift, so slightly more body roll if you speed around corners.

I just can't decide if it's really bigger on the inside, but the boot is definitely bigger than the Swift's boot. I guess it depends on what you want in terms of looks – the mini MPV look isn't really my style, but all in all I'd say it's a cool, comfortable ride with enough under the hood to get you there if you're later than usual.

Sunday

Okay, I guess it's time to tell you about the deal with the key: you don't use the key to open the car. You just need to have it close by. Same with starting the car. You turn a knob instead of a key and bang, ignited!

"Why would you want this function?" I hear you ask. Because you NEVER have to take the keys out of your bag, that's why. No more lost keys. No more forgetting your keys on the table in a restaurant and having to retrace your steps of the last 8 hours. No more rummaging around in your bag as you walk to the car to get your keys out before someone hijacks you. You just keep it in your bag, baby. And then, voila! Like magic. It rocks.

That said, I have to admit, I preferred the Swift. There was just something indefinably sexy about that car. But let's hear what Wilmer Muller, Editor of Wheels24 has to say about the Suzuki SX4:

The Suzuki SX-4 makes a strong case for itself as an attractive family runabout. It's a solid number too, while it is packed with all the bells and whistles. Furthermore its 2.0-litre petrol unit and the car has good handling – but fuel economy not brilliant. Overall it's a car that offers space, peace of mind and bang for your buck.

Have you driven, or do you own a SX4? What did you think of the drive? Share your thoughts in the box below.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE