The Suzuki SX4 is a compact hatchback produced by the Japanese automaker Suzuki. The first generation, known as the SX4 I, was introduced in 2006 and underwent a significant facelift in 2009. This facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the vehicle. The SX4 I (facelift 2009) with the 1.6-liter VVT engine and i-AWD (intelligent All-Wheel Drive) system was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a versatile and economical option in the competitive compact car segment. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, it represents Suzuki’s attempt to establish a stronger foothold in the global small car market.
Suzuki SX4 I (Facelift 2009) 1.6 VVT i-AWD: An Overview
The SX4 I (facelift 2009) 1.6 VVT i-AWD is a five-door hatchback designed to provide practicality and fuel efficiency. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle suitable for both urban commuting and occasional longer journeys. The i-AWD system was a key selling point, offering enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. The 2009 facelift brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille and headlights, as well as interior enhancements to improve the overall driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The SX4 I (facelift 2009) 1.6 VVT i-AWD is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M16A. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 156 Nm (115.06 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine features Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology, which optimizes engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The power-to-weight ratio is approximately 10 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.2 US mpg) combined, with 8.2 l/100km (28.7 US mpg) in urban settings and 5.5 l/100km (42.8 US mpg) on the open road. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The SX4 I (facelift 2009) boasts a practical and functional hatchback body style. It offers seating for five passengers and provides a reasonable amount of cargo space. The trunk capacity ranges from 270 liters (9.53 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1045 liters (36.9 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4255 mm (167.52 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.).
Key features include an i-AWD system, which provides all-wheel drive capability for improved traction. The drivetrain utilizes a 5-speed manual transmission. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam arrangement at the rear. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle rides on 205/60 R16 tires with 6J x 16 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | SX4 S-Cross |
| Generation | SX4 I (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 VVT (120 Hp) i-AWD |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 156 Nm @ 4400 rpm (115.06 lb.-ft. @ 4400 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 | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200-1255 kg (2645.55 – 2766.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430-485 kg (947.99 – 1069.24 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4255 mm (167.52 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 190 mm (7.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
The Suzuki SX4 I (facelift 2009) 1.6 VVT i-AWD, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability for buyers in its target markets. It represented Suzuki’s commitment to providing affordable and versatile transportation solutions.
