Suzuki SX4

In the SX4, Suzuki has produced a car that doesn't fit into any defined class boundaries. But it makes a strong case for itself as attractive family transport.

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Rating:
On the road price: £11,895 - £15,395
For : Steering is sharp, ride and handling, rear space, modern cabin, engine, safety equipment
Against : Odd styling, small dealer network, a few cheap cabin plastics, unproven image

Driving:
The Suzuki boasts an eager 1.6-litre engine that responds crisply to the throttle and is keen to rev. it's refined too, and not strained under acceleration. As for the platform itself, raising the suspension with the aim of generating an SUV-like stance normally has a detrimental effect on dynamics, so what's most surprising about the Suzuki is its handling. Despite the increased wheel travel and lofty ride height, it doesn't feel in any way cumbersome. In fact, it's similar to the Swift it's based upon in its well mannered and communicative behaviour. The steering delivers positive turn-in, while grip is good and, crucially, body roll is well controlled. What's more the Suzuki rides well and remains composed over bumpy surfaces, while it copes well around town, too.

Marketplace:
The Sedici is manufactured by Suzuki in Hungary, and is also sold as the Fiat Sedici. But whereas the Italian only comes as a four-wheel-drive model, the Suzuki comes with the option of front-wheel-drive too. There's only one engine at launch, a 109bhp 1.6-litre petrol (the Fiat-sourced 1.9-litre diesel engine follows later), and two trims; GL and GLX, with the costlier model boasting SUV-like wheelarch extensions, side body mouldings and skid plates. Obvious rivals to this 'supermini crossover SUV' are thin on the ground at the moment; the closest rival is the 4x4-look Polo Dune, which lacks any semblance of muddy-field ability despite its raised height. Other rivals include the Honda Jazz, Nissan Note, Renault Modus and Vauxhall Meriva, but these lack the Suzuki's 4x4 style. The tall stance does give it a slightly awkward appearance that's very much part-MPV, part-SUV, but its unique look does yield plenty of interior space.

Owning:
Bigger than the supermini norm, the SX4 also boasts an ample boot, with practicality further enhanced by split-folding back seats, which can be tumbled against the front chairs to increase load space. Further forward, the driving position has been well though out, and the raised height adds to the appeal. Thanks to large windows, the cabin is airy, and the dash shares the simplicity of the Swift supermini's layout. It feels very well built too - and this engineering robustness extends to the mechanics; positive brakes, well-weighted pedals and a slick five-sped gearbox combine to lend the car a quality feel. And list prices represent excellent value, especially as a comprehensive level of standard kit is standard. All this comes with decent retained values too, and servicing is competitive (though 9,000-mile intervals aren't great and the network is small - if able), but fuel economy isn't brilliant.