News Release
New Suzuki SX4 Sedan Widens Market Appeal For a World Car
08 February 2008
A new three-box sedan version of the Suzuki SX4 has widened the appeal of this strategic world car in New Zealand.
The unique compact car, which first arrived a year ago in 2-litre four-wheel-drive hatchback mode, is now available in front-wheel-drive saloon configuration.
At 4,490mm, the four-door “booted” SX4 sedan’s overall length is up 355mm compared to the five-door hatchback version.
Launching of the sedan model means the SX4 is now the most prolific of Suzuki models sold in New Zealand, with a choice of 11 versions, including the automatic transmission options.
The tall profile body configuration facilitates easy access to and exit from the car and has been earning the new generation Suzuki international appeal.
While the SX4 sedan incorporates a reworked suspension and a 35mm lower ride height than the four-wheel-drive hatchback version, the high access is still a significant design feature.
Rear seat accommodation is huge, with adult-sized space and plenty of room for legs, feet and shoulder. Intelligent use of space enhances the practical aspects of the car, and the controls are clean and functional.
Flush fitting controls for the air conditioning and ventilation, for example, are ring lit for ease of use at night-time or in poor lighting conditions. High quality, metallic trim adds to the facia finish.
A usefully large boot provides a generous capacity of 515 litres, which is, remarkably, larger than a Ford Falcon sedan.
With the fitment of a rear structural brace, body rigidity improves by 15 per cent, adding to the refinement of the Suzuki.
Front and rear crush zones crumple progressively in a collision, absorbing impact energy.
A frame design redistributes much of the impact energy away from the occupants. Side impact protection beams further reinforce the rigid cabin structure
The same wedge shaped designed and flared guards that distinguish the SX4 hatchback are seen with the sedan model.
First seen at last year’s New York Auto Show, the SX4 sedan is crucial for Suzuki in the United States. But the model also has a real application in markets like New Zealand where saloons are still popular.
Offered only in high specification Ltd form, the SX4 sedan has a recommended retail price of $24,500 with the 5-speed manual gearbox, and $25,990 when specified with a four stage electronic automatic transmission. These prices are the same as the 2-litre front-wheel-drive SX4 Ltd hatchback.
All prices are inclusive of first time registration, five years roadside assistance, a three-year or 100,000 kilometres warranty and a full tank of fuel.
The sedan has a full lower body kit, including front chin, side and lower rear body mouldings. In place of 16-inch diameter wheels on the hatch, the sedan is fitted with 15-inch aluminium alloy wheels.
Electrically operated power assisted steering, electric windows and door mirrors, tilt adjustable steering, engine security immobiliser and remote control for door locking with answer back are standard.
The keyless entry incorporates a keyless start system, allowing the driver to lock and unlock the doors and operate the car while leaving the keys in a pocket or handbag.
Also included is climate-controlled air conditioning, and steering wheel controls for the eight-speaker audio tuner with CD, MP3 and WMA facilities.
A red-illuminated information panel or computer displays current time and outside air temperature as well as both average and instantaneous fuel consumption.
Front fog lamps and a leather-bound steering wheel are part of the comprehensive standard equipment that also includes handy cruise control, conveniently activated from the steering wheel.
The 107 kW, twin overhead camshaft engine achieves peak torque of 184 Nm at 3,500 rpm. This four valves per cylinder, fuel-inject J20A series four-cylinder engine is also found in other 2-litre SX4 models.
The resin intake manifold utilises an air tuning system to enhance engine output and torque, varying the effective length of the intake manifold.
Independent MacPherson strut front suspension is complemented by a rigid torsion-beam system at the rear, providing responsive handling and secure cornering.
Four-channel anti-lock braking (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard active safety features. The SX4 sedan has driver, front passenger, front and rear curtain air bags.
The SX4 achieved four stars in the Euro NCAP occupant protection tests, and three out of four stars for pedestrian protection.
Inspired by the Suzuki Swift that has won 17 international awards, the SX4 was originally intended only for European markets.
However, the Giorgetto Giugiaro designed car was soon destined for many other territories, including North America, South America, Japan, India, Australia and now New Zealand.
