The Suzuki SX4, specifically the first generation (SX4 I) produced between 2006 and 2009, represents Suzuki’s foray into a competitive segment – the compact hatchback. While not initially a major player in the North American market, the SX4 was designed as a global vehicle, intended to appeal to a broad customer base. In Europe, and other markets where it was more prominently sold, it offered a practical and affordable alternative to established rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. The 1.6 i 16V VVT 4WD variant, producing 107 horsepower, was a popular choice for those seeking all-weather capability in a relatively small package. This model aimed to balance fuel efficiency with the added security of a four-wheel-drive system.
Suzuki SX4 I: A Detailed Overview
The SX4 I was a significant vehicle for Suzuki, marking a shift towards more contemporary designs and engineering. It was developed in collaboration with Fiat, sharing some components with the Fiat Sedici, but retaining a distinctly Suzuki character. The SX4 aimed to provide a versatile and reliable vehicle suitable for both urban commuting and occasional off-road excursions. The “SX4” designation itself stands for “Sporty Cross-over 4WD,” highlighting Suzuki’s intention to create a vehicle that blended practicality with a degree of adventurous capability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the SX4 I 1.6 i 16V VVT 4WD is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M16A. This engine produces 107 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes a variable valve timing (VVT) system to optimize performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The power-to-weight ratio is 11.8 kg/Hp, or 84.6 Hp/tonne, indicating a modest but adequate level of performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.2 seconds. The SX4 I 1.6 i 16V VVT 4WD has a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine’s naturally aspirated design and relatively small displacement prioritize fuel economy over outright power. Fuel consumption figures are rated at 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg) in urban conditions, 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg) on the open road, and a combined figure of 8.0 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The SX4 I is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its design was considered relatively conservative for its time, prioritizing practicality and functionality over bold styling. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4235 mm (166.73 in) in length, 1755 mm (69.09 in) in width, and 1620 mm (63.78 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2500 mm (98.43 in). The SX4’s interior is designed with usability in mind, featuring a straightforward dashboard layout and comfortable seating. Key features included an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as a standard safety feature. The 4WD system is a part-time system, offering enhanced traction in slippery conditions. Trunk space is a useful 270 liters (9.53 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1045 liters (36.9 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | SX4 S-Cross |
| Generation | SX4 I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V VVT (107 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.0 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 107 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4000 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M16A |
| Engine displacement | 1586 cm3 (96.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 270 l (9.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1045 l (36.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4235 mm (166.73 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Suzuki SX4 I 1.6 i 16V VVT 4WD, while not a performance leader, offered a compelling package of practicality, affordability, and all-weather capability. It served as a solid entry point into the compact hatchback segment for Suzuki, and laid the groundwork for future iterations of the SX4 and S-Cross models.
