The Suzuki SX4 I Sedan, produced between 2007 and 2009, represents Suzuki’s entry into the competitive compact sedan market. While not initially a major player in the United States, the SX4 was a significant model for Suzuki in Europe and other international markets, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and a relatively modern feature set. The SX4 aimed to provide a versatile vehicle suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys, competing with established models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.
Suzuki SX4 I Sedan: An Overview
The SX4 I Sedan was part of a broader SX4 lineup that also included a hatchback and, later, the SX4 S-Cross crossover. The sedan variant was primarily targeted at markets where traditional sedan body styles were preferred. It was positioned as a sensible and economical choice, emphasizing fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance. The 2.0-liter engine option, discussed below, was a key component of its appeal, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The SX4 I Sedan 2.0 L was powered by Suzuki’s J20B inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 1995 cm³ (121.74 cu. in.). This naturally aspirated engine produced 143 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 186 Nm (137.19 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine featured a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Power delivery was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 11.7 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 12.3 seconds. The maximum speed was electronically limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph).
The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, directing power to the front wheels. While not particularly advanced by modern standards, this powertrain combination provided a smooth and reliable driving experience. Fuel economy figures were respectable for the time, with combined fuel consumption averaging 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg or 37.2 UK mpg). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.3 kg/Nm indicated a reasonably efficient vehicle for its class.
Design & Features
The SX4 I Sedan featured a conventional sedan body style with four doors and seating for five passengers. Its design was generally conservative, aiming for a broad appeal rather than a particularly striking aesthetic. The interior was functional and well-built, with a focus on practicality. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in modern vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
The SX4’s trunk offered a minimum capacity of 515 liters (18.19 cu. ft.), providing ample space for luggage and other cargo. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4490 mm (176.77 in.) in length, 1730 mm (68.11 in.) in width, and 1545 mm (60.83 in.) in height – positioned it squarely within the compact sedan segment. The wheelbase measured 2500 mm (98.43 in.), contributing to a stable ride. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a torsion beam configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | SX4 S-Cross |
| Generation | SX4 I Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 L (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4000 rpm (137.19 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | J20B |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4490 mm (176.77 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65R15 |
The Suzuki SX4 I Sedan, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, offered a solid and reliable option in the compact sedan segment. Its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality made it a popular choice in many international markets, representing Suzuki’s commitment to providing accessible transportation.
