While we've gotten a kick recently out of Suzuki's humorous "Mightier than the Mini" TV ads featuring a caped SX4 crossover with superpowers, "sporty" and "Suzuki" are two words that have never really meshed in our minds when it comes to the brand's U.S. lineup. But that's starting to change, thanks to vehicles like the upcoming Kizashi sedan and the 2010 SX4 SportBack we recently took for a spin at the Pomona Raceway in Pomona, California.
The SX4 SportBack is essentially a full designer makeover of the base model SX4, and the changes go more than sheetmetal deep. Suzuki engineers reportedly took great pains to make sure the "Sport" in the car's name meant something, and it shows.
For the SportBack, Suzuki ditched its intelligent all-wheel drive system in favor of a trimmer and more economical front-drive layout. Its ride height has been lowered nearly a half inch, and it rolls on 17-in. wheels shod with Dunlop rubber. An aerodynamic kit, a unique grille treatment, and deleted roof rack add to the racier look, lending the five-door SportBack a more athletic stance. We especially like the rally-esque hatch spoiler.
Jump inside and the SportBack's cloth seats feel smooth, never scratchy. The SX4's overall cabin layout remains largely the same for 2010 but includes a redesigned center stack and HVAC controls. Standard features like a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless start are also maintained. In addition, all SX4 models get a slick new backlit instrument cluster. Fold-flat split rear seats and under-floor storage compartments improve convenience, while the auxiliary music player input jack will please audiophiles.
Under the SportBack's stubby hood resides a slightly reworked version of Suzuki's 150-hp, 2.0L VVT four-cylinder engine, up seven horses over last year's SX4 lineup. Suzuki says it's also 2 mpg more fuel efficient, regardless of transmission choice, with an estimated combined fuel economy of 26 mpg. The powertrain will be shared among the entire MY2010 SX4 lineup.
While on the autocross, we found the engine to be extremely peppy with either the new six-speed manual or optional CVT delegating power, replacing the SX4's previous five-speed manual and four-speed automatic gearboxes. The six-speed's throws proved crisp and easily findable, albeit too long for this track application. Put the car on city streets, however, and this engine/transmission combination could really shine.